Bangkok 2006

www.congahead.com

Precision machines that help to create the staves for the LP congas with nearly invisible glue joints and unprecidented strength.	The largest selection of wood of any percussion factory in the world. This large inventory of wood assures that only dried wood goes into making the LP line of percussion products.	Staves waiting to become part of the finest congas in the world.	Individual staves of precision sawn, kiln dried wood are carefully glued together.	Ron Otis and Steve Thornton discussing the manufacturing operation.
Fiberglass halves of drums bearing Santana licensed images waiting for final assembly.	Steve Thornton admiring a new finish that is to be introduced at NAMM 2006.	Steve Thornton trying out some drums and providing a special performance for the factory people. They really appreciated having a percussionist of Steve's level perform on the drums that they so proudly manufacture.	After performing on the drums, Chatchai, the factory owner asked Steve to sign the head.	It was a special treat for Ron and Steve to enjoy the ice cold liquid of young coconuts.
Ron Otis posing along a Klong with a "James Bond" long boat approaching in the rear.	Chatchai making a point at a fabulous lunch he treated all of to.	Razak, Ron Otis, Steve Thornton, Yim Chandontrikit, myself, Chatchai Chandontrikit. In front row Nicola, staff member and Johan.	A shaper at work in the tool department of the factory. Having the ability to manufacturer their own tools is a big reason the LP products are so special and consistant.	The LP factory tool shop.
Components of the hugely popular Giovanni Compact Conga.	What would a factory visit by percussionists be like without a jam sessioin. Johan, Ron Otis, Razak and Steve Thornton.	Steve Thornton discussing a modification that Chatchai made to the Collapsible Cradle conga stand's rubber shell grippers.	Chatachi proudly displays the Spirit of America bongos that Matthew Cohen designed at the age of 6.	Powerder coated rims being transported in the factory.
A game of soccer preceeds the start of the night shift.	Yim, Steve Thornton and Ron Otis at the end of the factory visit.