1.   The rumble of the taiko drum resonated through the air.

2.   It is the largest taiko drum outside Japan.

3.   The sounds evoke thundering drum corps, pulsing taiko drums, fiery flamencos, insistent African rhythms, mystic bells and ethereal new-age sounds.

4.   The music, to Japanese taiko drums, will pound throughout the arena.

5.   There will be food and beer, music, dancing and even Japanese taiko drums.

6.   Local official Kazuhiro Niwa said the town had laid on a noisy reception featuring fireworks and a performance of traditional taiko drums.