The Atabaque is a long drum, which like the agogo, is an instrument of Candomble.
It adds the beat to the music. It is similar to the congas of salsa music but generally smaller in diameter and taller.

The name 'Atabaque' is of Arabic origin. The atabaque was well known all over Africa, but some believe it was brought to Brazil in the hands of the Portuguese for use in religious celebrations.

They are also played for samba-de-roda and are also considered essential and sacred for various religious ceremonies like Candomble and Macumba.