Batala Bermo

Behind the Drums

What is Batala?

Batala is a global drumming family with one mission—spreading the infectious energy of Afro-Brazilian samba-reggae around the world!

With roots in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, our rhythms are vibrant, powerful, and impossible not to dance to.

And it’s not just about having fun—we’re proud to give back to the Brazilian communities where this incredible music was born, keeping the cultural spirit alive and thriving.

More than 1,500 drummers across the globe play music composed by the amazing Giba Gonçalves—but Batala is so much more than just music. It’s about community, equality, and the joy of coming together to make something bigger than ourselves. Whether you're banging a drum or dancing along, everyone is welcome.

Batala Bermo is a not-for-profit community samba band based in the stunning seaside town of Barmouth (or Bermo, as it's known in Wales!). All proceeds go straight back into the band—helping us provide drums, costumes, and everything we need to keep the rhythm going strong.

Everyone is welcome at Batala Bermo—no matter your background, income, identity, or musical experience.

If you’ve got a heartbeat, you’ve got rhythm—and we’ll help you find it!

We’re part of a global family of Batala bands, all playing the same high-energy Afro-Brazilian rhythms. Our music comes from Salvador, Bahia in North-Eastern Brazil, with deep roots in African traditions. Batala was founded by Brazilian percussionist Giba Goncalves in Paris in 1997 as the European wing of the Brazilian group Cortejo Afro.

Giba is the mastermind behind the Batala sound—a powerful fusion of samba-reggae rhythms inspired by his hometown of Salvador. The name “Batala” is a playful blend of the French phrase “battre là” (“hit there”) and a nod to Obatala, a revered deity in Yoruba culture, reflecting the African heritage that shaped Brazil’s rich musical landscape.

With Batala groups all over the world, we often join forces for big events like Notting Hill Carnival—imagine 200 drummers from across the globe playing in perfect unison! That’s the spirit of Batala Mundo—one love, one drum, one global family.