In Japan, the name Kodo carries two meanings, heartbeat or children of the drum. And for these superb performers it represents the company's desire to play taiko purely, with the heart of a child. But there is nothing childlike in the primal beat of a Kodo performance. Although the company plays a variety of instruments, it's their massive drums weighing as much as 900 pounds that mesmerize the audience. Seeing Kodo is an unforgettable experience.