Drum circle promotes healing, community in downtown Raleigh

The rhythmic sound of Obi Rhythms echoes through downtown Raleigh every first Sunday of the month.

Organizers of the drum circle say the music brings healing.

"Obi" is an African word for "heart." The nonprofit's founder, Christine Rosier, says the drum circle is good for the heart and everything else.

"Whether physical healing, mental healing, emotional or trauma healing and even community healing," she said.

"I think it raises the vibration of the universe," added participant Keith Matthews.

People passing by the drum circle love to hear its beat.

Eugene Taylor, who leads the ever-changing flow of energy, says the happiness is contagious and the power is in the drums. Called a Djembe, the drum originated in west Africa, and it has a powerful sound.

"It cuts down on a lot of negativity," said another drummer.

"And it just has that infectious sort of feel to it," added another.

"The rhythm travels," Taylor said. "It travels and reaches all walks of life and draws all people."

Decario Allen is a guest drummer -- someone who heard the music and decided to join the group.

"When I heard it, I was like, OK, what's going on over there," he said. "I wanted to automatically find out what was going on."

Organizers say guest drummers like Allen quickly find their place in the rhythm. Training or practice is not necessary.

"It's easy to sit down and just drum," Rosier said.

On Sunday afternoons,up to 30 Djembe drums sit ready for anyone to join in.

"I needed this," Allen said. "I'm glad I did it."

Rosier hopes to expand the concept to other cities in order to reach more urban populations.

You can find Obi Rhythms playing on the first Sunday of every month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in or near Moore Square. Visit their website for more information.