In the past we offered what we thought were thick “mule” skins for congas, but a DNA test from a major agricultural university revealed that they had absolutely no horse, mule or donkey (equine) genetics. They did have bovine DNA markers, and were likely Nili Ravi water buffalo marketed as mule.
They are beautiful high quality skins that we call Fat Cat™ Buffalo. It is Middle Eastern Nili Ravi, and produces dry/woody tones and has low action at thickness above 2.5mm. The playing surface is slightly dimpled and dense- ideal for folkloric styles. This skin type is not to be confused with Thai water buffalo common on factory made drums.
It is available in Natural, Amber and Chocolate colors, and in thicknesses up to 3.3mm as a Flat Skin or PreMounted™ Drum Head.