Yoman MPP017 - DOUBLE TELEVI HANDLE (KAS KAS KASHAKA)

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The Televi, often referred to by other names depending on the region (including "Kas Kas"), belongs to the large family of traditional West African rattles. Its playing principle, both simple and very rich, has made it popular for accompanying singing, dances, and music with a strong rhythmic dimension, while today finding its place in more modern contexts (world music, acoustic groove, stage and studio).

Who This Drum/Televi Is For

The Televi is aimed at a wide audience, from the beginner curious to discover a traditional percussion to the experienced percussionist looking for an instrument capable of adding depth to a pattern. It is particularly suitable for styles where rhythm must "speak" and bounce: African music, afrobeat, reggae, funk, acoustic, singing, musical storytelling, but also as a complement to a cajon, djembe, or drum kit set to add a layer of texture.

Its handling encourages a natural work on regularity and precision. As technique progresses, accents, offbeats, and faster sequences can be integrated, making it an instrument as formative as it is creative.

Features and Innovations

The uniqueness of the Televi lies in its design: two balls connected by a string, which allows alternating between the shaker movement and the "clack" effect produced when the moving ball strikes the hand or the other ball. By playing on the amplitude of the gesture, the tension of the string, and the way to "lock" the ball held in hand, very different nuances are obtained, from a simple rhythmic carpet to more cut and percussive patterns.

Compared to a classic shaker, the interest is twofold: you retain a granularity (the grain of the rattle) while adding a sharp attack that marks the pulse. It is precisely this contrast that makes it effective for carrying a groove, even among other instruments.

Sound

The Televi's sonic signature lies between the maraca and the shaker, with an additional dimension: a dry snap that gives relief and clarity to the rhythm. The sound depends heavily on the materials (shape, hardness, and density of the balls, nature of the internal filling) and playing technique. Generally, a finer filling tends to produce a tighter and more precise sound, while a coarser filling will provide more presence and character, with a more pronounced grain.

If the instrument is made from natural materials (as is often the case for this type of percussion), the timbre can be perceived as more organic and slightly "drier," with an immediate attack and a quick decay. This short response helps keep the mix clean and facilitates adding nuances: ghost notes, accents, and dynamic variations depending on speed and impact.

Technical specifications

Instrument size	Small	Color	Brown
Type	Kas-Kas	Finishing	Natural
Material	wood

Design	two balls connected by a string	Origin	typical African percussion
Common names	Televi, Kas Kas