Jam block

A jam block is a percussion instrument developed as a modern, hard plastic version of the woodblock.^[1] They are popularly used for their durability when compared to the traditional woodblock. They were created by Martin Cohen, founder of Latin Percussion, after percussionist Marc Quiñones requested a sturdier version of the woodblock.^[2]

Jam block

Percussion instrument
Other names	Gock block blast block
Classification	Percussion
Hornbostel–Sachs classification	111.242.1 (Individual bells)
Inventor(s)	Martin Cohen
Related instruments
Woodblock temple blocks muyu slit drum
Builders
Latin Percussion Pearl Meinl

Jam blocks are usually attached to timbales and drum kits, but they can also be used as standalone orchestral instruments. They are often used in salsa and other Latin American styles, although some modern drummers have used them in rock. They are also often used to keep time during marching band rehearsals where they are popularly known as "gock blocks".^[3]

See also

• Woodblock
• Slit drum
• Log drum
• Cowbell