Whether digging in the crates or covering emerging bands of the present, I always try to keep it international with the breaks. On this 61st installment of Around The Web In Breakbeats, we've got the sounds of America, Europe, Indonesia and more. Take a trip as each band delivers thumping kicks and snares in a diverse and attractive display of rhythm in songwriting. The diversity of mood and expression is sure to put you in a zone by talents who musically mesmerize. 

In addition, we've got the extensive collection of raw drum breaks courtesy of International Breaks. Enjoy a sampling of their drum sounds above and download their soundkits here at Gumroad.

Imagine tapping into the pulse of a bustling African marketplace, the hypnotic rhythm of a Brazilian carnival, or the soulful grooves of a Tokyo jazz club. Each of these sounds carries with it the essence of its origin, a sonic passport that can transport your listeners across continents. By unearthing these sounds from every corner of the globe, you’re not just making music—you’re telling a story, painting a picture with rhythms that go beyond the ordinary.

International Breaks is a drum supplier like none other. Within the marketplace, they standout not only for the quality and obscurity of their drum sounds. Above all, IB has it on lock when it comes to scouring the globe for a variety of rhythmic styles and genres. From Afrobeat, hip-shaking Latin to Far Eastern Funk, this is a musical and cultural melting pot. In Hip Hop, their collection of sample pack drums is a great component to the culture’s musical diversity. As a result, the forward-thinking producer can stand out amongst the rest. You can experience this international groove collection either on vinyl, or as a digital download here at Gumroad.

African Beats with a Twist

Feel the pulse of Africa with every strike of the drum. The vibrant, rhythmic African drum breaks in this collection are more than just beats—they're a celebration of life, culture, and spirit. Sampling history is ripe with the rhythms of Africa, and the kits of International Breaks keep the vibe alive. Whether you want to discover the next Johnny Pate’s “Shaft In Africa” or discover “African Rhythms” like J Dilla, these soundkits are a great start. Realize the power of Africa as a source of music and use it to your advantage. Beats from The Motherland run throughout all musical genres and history. They are raw, they’re organic, and it’s rhythmic power is sure to make your listeners move.

The Soul of Brazil

Step into the heart of Brazil, where music is as much a part of life as the air you breathe. The collections of IB features authentic Bossa Nova and Samba breaks that pay homage to Brazil’s rich musical heritage. These breaks are smooth, yet complex—perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your beats. Bossa Nova’s gentle, swaying rhythms are ideal for laid-back grooves, while Samba’s lively, syncopated beats bring a joyful, exuberant energy that’s impossible to resist. Infuse your tracks with the soul of Brazil, and watch them come alive with warmth and passion.

In recent years, there’s been a growing trend of producers searching the Japanese crates for breaks. It’s no coincidence, because Japan boasts some of the funkiest albums and musicians. Like the late great Jazz-Funk maestro Ryo Kwasaki of “Juice” fame, musicians from this region have left us with gem after gem. This is where International Breaks Picks up to carry the torch for crate diggers. Dig into their collection of breaks that offer a distinctive sound that’s both funky and exotic. The rhythmic intricacies and unexpected twists of Japanese funk will set your beats apart from the crowd, adding a layer of depth and originality that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s funk, but not as you know it—this is Japanese funk, and it’s ready to take your music to the next level.

South East Asian culture is very beautiful and intriguing, especially in music. Timbaland is one person who’s embraced this culture in his sampling of numerous Middle Eastern grooves. These rhythms are steeped in centuries of tradition, yet they carry a timeless, almost otherworldly quality that makes them perfect for modern production. Whether you’re crafting a chill, atmospheric track or adding an exotic flair to a more upbeat composition, IB’s Middle Eastern drum breaks are the perfect backdrop. Their intricate patterns and deep, resonant tones create a sense of depth and space, turning your beats into an immersive auditory experience.

Welcome to my world of the Caribbean and the culture it provides which continues to influence the world. As a West Indian who grew up in the Little Dominican Republic of NYC, I share a close connection to the rhythms of the Caribbean. So does this drum break provider who provides the percussion from this warm and beautiful region. Looking for a sound that evokes a lively summer anthem or the need to dance? You have arrived at the right place in a collection which covers the unique musical identity of the Caribbean. From the infectious groove of reggae to the rapid-fire rhythms of soca, these Caribbean drum breaks bring a vibrant, energetic vibe that’s impossible not to dance to. Ask Big Pun and his producer who created the lyrical smash "Caribbean Connection".

Authenticity at Your Fingertips

In a world flooded with many soundkits, authenticity is your golden ticket. Using rare international drum breaks into your production doesn’t just add another layer—it infuses your music with a genuine cultural essence. These are not just loops; they are the echoes of streets, festivals, and rituals from around the globe. Whether it’s the earthy polyrhythms of West Africa or the sun-soaked grooves of Rio, these breaks carry the spirit of their origins. In addition, these breaks bring an undeniable authenticity to your tracks, giving them a depth and resonance that’s hard to replicate with synthesized sounds. Your listeners will feel it—the raw, unfiltered energy of world percussion that transcends borders and time. At the time of writing this article, I feel popular music could benefit from a stronger presence and diversity of international rhythm. It's an outstanding approach to music that made me love turning on MTV in the 80's. 

Versatility Across Genres

Internationally, these drum breaks aren’t bound by genre; they’re sonic chameleons. Depending on how you use each break, it can add a spice to your music. Whether you need boom bap drums for Hip Hop, an ethereal electronic composition, or a vibrant world music piece, these breaks are essential. Their adaptability and versatility to different styles of music is what makes them so valuable. Just look at Hip Hop and R&B history which demonstrates how a single break can make all the difference in the creation of a classic. It’s this versatility of breaks from around the world that makes them indispensable to your sound library. You’re not just adding sounds; you’re adding possibilities—endless ones. Like the spice from an exotic place in the world, enjoy the flavorful and unique taste of International Breaks.