Cowbell is extremely difficult to record.
To capture the true nature, purpose, depth and proper use requires a master player. The tambourine is similar.
The subtleties, the yearning, the innuendoes, that come from a profound understanding of the need for these instruments is woefully lacking in the samples available from most vendors. Articulations? Not a clue!
These instruments, and others, such as the washboard and spoons, have provided significant contributions to the roots, depth and breadth, of Music Americana.
I, for one, am dismayed at the lack of recognition and appreciation for these fundamental sounds and the great players who pioneered them for us all. They have been disrespected, dis-honored, and discarded without second thoughts.
Just thinking of the lonely discoveries, the years of development and refinement, the decades enduring ridicule and derision, makes me feel shame.
The proper responses to "We need more cow bell!" are, "What type of cowbell? Worn by what type of cow? For how long? In what region of our great country? Forged by which of the renowned percussive blacksmiths?"
As always, maintaining the faith
Ray Jay