I have a set of four Tar drums which are varied in size. Lately they are only used when I play out with my buddies Fareed and Tej, on thier cds and even more so after a gig. They play stringed instruments for the most part, but has a great insight into the talis. A couple grooves we always play are a Jahptal and a basic groove.

The basic groove consists of water, earth, fire, water, fire, earth, earth, fire. Usually played alop jo jolla.

The Jahptal is played accenting the 3, 4 and the 9, 10, also played alop jo jolla. Very intoxicating.

Anyone have any favourite tals you play?

The Tar is a frame drum. It's distinguishing characteristic is the long delay after it is hit.

The Tal is the beat of Indian music - the word actually means "clap".

Here's a 13/8 with accents on the 1,4,7, 10, & 12.
done on Didjeridu:

http://www.animaldreams.net/sheba2.mp3

Probably my favorite is the 16 beat Tal / Ragga on Tabla - with Sitar.