What is octoban drum?

Octoban drums are a set of tuned percussion instruments that are cylindrical in shape and made of fiberglass, although some models may be made of wood or metal. They were invented by the percussionist Billy Cobham in the 1970s, and were originally designed to mimic the sound of timpani drums in a more compact and portable form.

Octobans are typically played in sets of three or more, and are arranged in order of pitch from high to low. They can be played using traditional drumsticks, mallets, or brushes, and are typically used to create melodic patterns and fills in drumming compositions.

Octobans have been used in a variety of musical genres, including rock, jazz, and fusion. They have been featured prominently in the music of drummers such as Terry Bozzio, Keith Carlock, and Chester Thompson.