Clave is the rhythmic pattern that forms the basis of Latin music. Clave is formulated in what is known as a 3/2 (forward clave) or 2/3 (reverse clave) feel. In other words, three beats then two beats or two beats then three beats. Claves are the traditional instruments used to play clave and consist of two sticks that are struck together to get a high-pitched cracking sound.