Songo & Timba Grooves: A Practical Guide
 
This 43-page digital guide offers a clear and focused approach to two of Cuba’s most vibrant and influential musical styles: Songo and Timba. Written specifically for drum set players, the book explores the essential grooves, phrasing concepts, and musical vocabulary that define these rhythms.
 
Each example is notated and thoughtfully explained, with an emphasis on practical application, musical feel, and rhythmic placement. The material is grounded in historical context but presented in a way that feels modern and accessible.
 
Included with the book are over 50 audio and video demonstrations, all recorded and produced by Juan "Carlito" Mendoza. Each groove is performed in three versions:
 
In 4/4 time for clear reference,
In 2/2 time with clave to reflect authentic phrasing,
And with clave only to help internalize the underlying structure.
 
Whether you're new to Afro-Cuban drumming or looking to deepen your understanding of Songo and Timba, this guide provides practical tools to help you integrate these rhythms into your playing.
 
Download includes:

✔️ 43-page PDF
✔️ 50+ downloadable audio files to put on a playlist to practice to
✔️Over 50 Minutes of video examples (streaming)
✔️ Clear “Audio Here” and “Video Here” link to download and view files