Cajon/en
The cajón is usually a rectangular wooden box used as a percussion instrument. Originating in Peru, it was historically often no more than a simple wooden box. As manufacturers such as Schlagwerk and Meinl began marketing it commercially, modifications were introduced to make it attractive to the local rock and pop mainstream. Although it is now often used as a substitute for a drum kit, many listeners are still surprised by this little box's range of sounds and uses.
There are many variations in its construction. Today, different types of snare wires are commonly attached inside the striking surface to produce a snare-like sound. With skilful playing, the basic sounds of a drum kit can be imitated quite easily.
The cajón used by Andreas was not mass-produced by a major instrument manufacturer. It was individually made by a carpenter in Tyrol who specialises in wooden instruments. It has a mechanism for releasing the snare wires, useful for producing conga- or bongo-like sounds in certain passages. A special wood used for the striking surface gives it a very soft sound, rather than the hard sound of mass-produced instruments. It also has a comfortable padded seat.
In the band's history, the cajón and Holm's guitar have been the most widely travelled instruments, thanks to their straightforward portability. On aircraft, this has usually allowed us to find a place to stow them quickly, even in Russian passenger planes, and, with few exceptions, has attracted interested and friendly looks.
Depending on the venue, additional percussion instruments, such as cymbals, shakers or a triangle, are included in the setup.
