Tribal dances are always performed to music of one form or another, whether to erratic drum-beating with no particular rhythm, or to more conventional sessions that include musical instruments. The types and qualities of the music vary greatly among the tribes, but the one thing they all have in common is the use of drums and the way they are played. Drummers are usually prominent young men who play so vigorously that they seem to work themselves into a trance. It's not obvious what is real and what is posturing to the local young women, but the intensity is there, nonetheless. With heads and limbs shaking wildly, the volume and tempo of the percussion increase continuously as the hours go by.

Alcohol is commonly used as a stimulant before, during and after performances, although it's unclear whom the alcohol seems to benefit more: the drummer or those who have to listen to him.