A temple in Taipei County's Tucheng has stayed away from the tradition, by having jazz drums accompany the mantras chanted by Buddhist priests.

Many devotees like the change, saying that the jazz rhythms add an unique flavor to the experience.

The mantra's drum accompaniment is rich and multi-layered with a hint of rock and a hint of jazz.

44-year old Chiang Chun-wen composed the drum rhythms that are being used at this Tucheng temple, and says that his aim was providing a smoother flow and more luxurious rhythm for the mantras.

The Jazz drums have a familiar sound, and the combination of eastern chimes and western drums has been well-received by devotees.

Many worshippers were extremely surprised to discover that Chiang,

who also serves as temple commissioner, has no musical background whatsoever, and therefore believe that he was inspired by the earth god.

Regardless of where his inspiration came from, Chiang's musical innovation is breathing new life into monotonous Buddhist mantras.