It was not the constant, rhythmic thump of the African drum that sprung Patrick Gant to his feet to dance, but the natural sound of a cultural calling.

The calling of the drum was directly sent by former SIUC student and drummer Seku Neblett and master percussionist Mamadou Mane Badiane as the outcry of past Africans organizing slave revolts.

As soon as the deep, intriguing sound of the drum rumbled from the stage and into the audience, the diverse cultures joined in the celebration of Africa.

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The drumming display Monday was sponsored by the International Student Council and the Black History Month Committee.

Rolling shoulders, swaying heads and collective hand clapping expressed the feeling among the about 40 people in attendance Monday, including Gant, a senior in education from Chicago.

Without hesitation, his legs vibrated as he engaged in his personal definition of unity.

I like music like that, Gant said. If I can jump up to the music on the radio, I definitely can get up to this. It sounds good just the natural rhythm how they’re using their hands. That shows unity by them being here playing together.

For four years, Neblett has traveled the United States with Badiane to elementary, high schools and colleges to share the African experience. The men played the Bugurabu, a four-piece leather-skinned drum, for almost an hour, explaining its symbolism between selections.

The drum is able to speak to the universe, Neblett said. These drums speak the same language they did in Africa. It has the same liberation message.

Neblett, who participated in the Freedom Singers and the civil rights movement during the 1960s, said the drum sends the message that all Africans and African-Americans should be in an organization that fights for their culture.

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As a descendent of a family of musicians, Neblett said it is relevant for Africans and African-Americans to listen to the beats of the drum and to realize its significance.

Depending on the level of consciousness, the drum helps organize our people, Neblett said. It’s the most important aspect, so I try to raise the kids’ level of consciousness.

Mavin Edwards, a Carbondale resident, felt a spirit coming over her as she wrapped herself into the resounding echoes of the drum. She joined the drummers on stage as the constant vibration nourished her movement.

It was just a spiritual calling, she said. It’s a communication to a higher source. I have always been sensitive to music. I tend to shut out my surroundings. It’s between me and the most high.

Neblett was surprised at the energy sparked by the crowd. Oftentimes his hands tire after several minutes of play, but as he witnessed the crowd participation, he merely disregarded any discomfort.

Oh yeah, I get tired, he said. Man, the only thing that kept me going today was her energy. That’s what saved me.