I dedicated the weekend past to parang and the music of Christmas so I never made it to any steelband event, including Saturday’s Pan in De Countryside at Koskeros panyard in Rio Claro.

On Saturday, Catholic Media Services Limited (Camsel) hosted a wonderful show Under the Trees at The Normandie, St Ann’s. Held under clear skies, it was the fifth edition of Parang in the City and it was attended by a large turnout.

Hosted by Peter Kelly, the programme was opened by Sacred Heart Girls, defending champion of the Primary Schools Parang Competition and recent Sanfest winner. They were remarkable, especially lead vocalist Asia McEachine-Assing and eight-year-old violinist Clarisse Lee Sing.

They were followed by the equally impressive Los Amigos en Musica, a parang group comprising visually-impaired artistes, performing together for the past 21 years. Los Parranderos de UWI, also a parang group with history and pedigree, celebrating its 35th year of performing, woke up the laid-back audience, especially its energetic marac player.

Voces Jovenes also performed a lively set, rounding off its performance with Baron’s Spanish Woman. Coming all the way from San Fernando, Fuego Caribueno took the evening’s music and entertainment even higher, led by Venezuelan vocalist Iruys Juarez. She also displayed her virtuoso by mastering the mandolin and got patrons to leave their seats to come up front and dance.

Queen of parang soca Marcia Miranda, also recent winner of the Cott Parang Soca Song of the Year award, sang over recorded tracks and was followed by multiple National Parang champion Los Alumnos de San Juan.

Saturday’s show was a tremendous success, fuelled by good music, a good sound system, good Christmas food (complete with black cake) and entertaining hosting by Kelly. Deserving full marks for pulling it all together were Camsel manager Lucille Nathu and stage manager Ronnie Joseph.

There was more sweet parang music on Sunday evening when caterer Dune Ali teamed up with CAL Invaders Steel Orchestra to stage another edition of Pan, Parang & Pork, staged at St John’s Hall, on Fitzblackman Drive, Port-of-Spain. With catering by Ali’s Rib House, patrons were satisfied with sumptuous servings of pork in every imaginable manner, including jerk, roast, barbecue, souse, geera, ham and a delicious cassava oildown with pigtail. 

As if that wasn’t enough, at the end patrons received a Christmas dinner complete with ham, pastelle and rice and fresh pigeon peas. The music side of the evening was also over the top with performances by Invaders’ youth and senior bands, Natasha Babwah, Marcia Miranda and Los Alumnos de San Juan. 

During the Invaders senior band set, Toni Williams received a rousing ovation when she rendered O Holy Night. Other vocalists for Silver Bells were Anthony Phillip, Atiya O’Neil and Claude Griffith.  The junior band also impressed and, for its set, presented vocalists Joshua Lewis, song of artiste Peter C Lewis, and Rashaun Williams, son of Invaders quad pan player Desiree Myers.

Invaders certainly proved that any form of music can be played on the national instrument.

Calypso Stars of Gold
Having chosen 40 of the top calypsoes for 2015, the National Action Cultural Committee (NACC) has whittled down the field to 20 for its 28th annual Top 20 Stars of Gold and Calypso of the Year ceremony. Scheduled for today at 8 pm, at Central Bank Auditorium in Port-of-Spain, the event will feature musical accompaniment by Earl Knight & The Top 20 Orchestra. Minister of Community Development, Culture & The Arts Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly has been invited to attend.

The toss-up for Calypso of the Year promises to be a keenly contested one as it includes I Believe, the calypso which won Roderick “Chuck Gordon” Gordon this year’s National Calypso Calypso Monarch title; Like ah Boss, the smash hit of International Power Soca Monarch and Road March champion Machel Montano; and Ola, which gave Olatunji Yearwood the 2015 International Goovy Soca title and the COTT Song of the Year. Also in the fray in both categories are Lucy (Destra Garcia) and My House (Farmer Nappy.

Top 20 Calypso Stars of Gold 2015:

Ah Gone—Heather Mac Intosh
Child of Liberty—Ife Alleyne
Citizen’s Pride—Duane O’Connor
Dis is My Life—Arnold Jordan
Equality—Ezekiel Yorke
Every Knee Shall Bow—Karene Asche
I Believe—Roderick Gordon
King #2—Kurt Allen
Like ah Boss—Machel Montano 
Lucy—Destra Garcia
My House—Farmer Nappy (Darryl Henry)
My Humble Plea—Devon Seale
Ola—Olatunji Yearwood
Peace Seeker—Sean Daniel
Stalwart—Helon Francis
The Essence of Building—Sasha Ann Moses
Unquestionable—Sheldon Reid
What Maestro Say is True—All Rounder (Anthony Hendrickson)
What You Wiling to Die Fow—Tigress (Joanne Rowley)
Wishful—Brian London

SuperBlue for Dimanche Gras
After 23 years, SuperBlue is making a bid for Dimanche Gras again. On the weekend he said: “Soca Monarch and Road March are fine but the National Calypso Monarch finals is really the most prestigious calypso competition on the planet and just being in the final is an achievement for any calypsonian.”

SuperBlue has previously won both the Soca Monarch and Road March titles but the national calypso crown has evaded him through his 36-year career. The song he hopes that will get him to the Queen’s Park Savannah on Carnival Sunday night is We Calypso, a song which honours icons in calypso like Roaring Lion, Atillah the Hun, Spoiler, Sparrow and Black Stalin. Very musical and beautifully arranged, the ditty is packed with good lyrics and celebrates calypso as “the mother of Caribbean music.”

The semi-final of the 2016 National Calypso Monarch competition will held on Saturday, January 30, at Skinner Park, San Fernando, at 11 am, and the final is scheduled for Dimanche Gras on Sunday, February 7.

Myron B swears off alcohol for Christmas
The Incredible Myron B (IMB) has sworn off all alcohol for Christmas 2015 with his new release No Hard Liquor. The five-time Humorous Calypso Monarch recounts, in song, a series of unfortunate events that occurred last Christmas, as result of his drinking shenanigans with Parang Soca contemporaries Kenny J, Fireball and Crazy.

IMB, real name Myron Bruce, details the visits to the homes of the three that all spectacularly end in his embarrassment on the self-penned, self-produced track. “I try to walk but one foot start kicking the other/ Ah trip and fall and da is wha cause a disaster/Ah pull down the curtain, lick down the tree/Mash up the gifts people bring for he/ Now he upset and ah feeling shame/So today pardna, I only drinking Smalta,” he sings.

Myron B has had a massive influence on the sound of Christmas over the past decade with his colourful storytelling, festive mandarin strums and sing-along hooks. The Maraval-based artiste says it has been an incredible journey to this point—one he never takes for granted.

“It’s amazing to look back and see your musical growth captured and documented; and, most importantly, the impact my music has had on people. As an artiste that’s the ultimate, when you can bring joy to the lives of people. It’s humbling and my only wish is to be able to continue doing so for years to come,” said Bruce.  

Born August 7, under the sign of Leo, Samantha Johnson isn’t your ferocious, aggressive feline. Decidedly shy, reserved and demure, the 27-year-old advertising sales executive won the New Female Songwriter of the Year Award at the 2015 Cott Awards, held on November 4, at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s.

Johnson was born in Scarborough, Tobago, and grew up in Lambeau Village. A past student of Lambeau Primary, Scarborough Secondary and UWI Sixth Form, she is now enrolled at the West Indies Theological College in Santa Cruz, pursuing her BA in Social Work. Raised by her mother, Juliet Hector, and uncle, Trevor McClatchie, Johnson was in love with singing and music for as long as she can remember.

“I remember walking around the house singing,” she said. “And sometimes I’d go outside and sit on a rock all by myself and sing. I also have memories of playing the piano on Twelve & Under.”

Johnson was also athletically inclined and represented T&T at the Junior Carifta Games in Bermuda in 2004. Unfortunately, she had to abandon track and field because of injury.

“When I was injured,” said Johnson, “I became more drawn to music. One of my uncle’s friends opened a recording studio in Tobago (Stone Tower) and I began helping out there. This perked my interest even more, especially as I was now rubbing shoulders with a number of popular recording artistes. After doing background vocals for one of them, I realised that this would be my calling.”

Johnson has been writing poems and stories since childhood with her sister Tricia. She has four sisters and one brother. She said: “We used to write just for the fun of it. I cannot explain how ideas for songs come to me. I would simply sit by myself and out of the blue a song would come, complete with the words and music. 

Take for instance, the song Freedom, which won me the Cott award. It came at a juncture of my life when I was going through a challenging period. I was sitting in the gallery in Tobago by myself and I began hearing drums and a rhythm, like sounds of freedom and deliverance. It was an amazing experience. My uncle, who I call Baba, encouraged me to record the song and join Cott.”

Johnson named Isaac Blackman as her mentor. “Isaac advises me a lot and I admire his humility and experience in the music industry,” she said. “At present he is producing one of my songs titled Greater. This is a song people should look forward to.”She also admitted a love for Bob Marley’s music.

Johnson is a devout Christian and is a member of Church on the Way Open Bible in Tunapuna. She said: “As a child, my grandmother attended Lambeau Church of God so I was raised in the church. When I attended church and heard the songs and the word of God, I felt like that was the life I needed to live. I have had no regrets.”

Johnson met musician Jeriel Johnson five years ago when she performed at a concert in Tunapuna. Three years later he became her husband. “Jeriel is my strength,” Johnson said. “He helps me with my compositions, and you can say he is something of a musical director to me. Because of school, my career and the music, I don’t have any immediate plans to have children.”

Johnson is currently working on an album and her band Exusia, which means “to have power and influence.” “I am expecting and looking forward to more awards. I really appreciate this award from Cott and I think it is the start of a new chapter in my musical journey. Cott is really doing something positive by recognising and rewarding the nation’s young composers and songwriters,” she said.

In closing, a humbled Johnson was most appreciative of her sponsors Compass Bang Bang; make-up artist Amelia Pinky Razzaq and hairstylist Gorgeous Bravo; the support of her working colleagues at T&T Guardian Classifieds; church members and family.

What are the ingredients for a good fete? Good venue; reasonable admission; good music; good food; nice people. Fanfare Associates got an A in each category when it launched its J’Ouvert 2016 mas band on Sunday. 

It was an all-inclusive at the Royal Air Force Association Club, Queen’s Park East, Port-of-Spain. Admission of $40 included music (DJ Cutting Crew with a guest performance by veteran artiste Michelle Alleyne); food (ochro rice and saltfish, hops and gheera gizzard, and more); and some wonderful patrons.

Next year, Fanfare, led by National Carnival Development Foundation (NCDF) PRO Peter “Blues” Reynald, is playing Tribute to Trinidad All Stars. Fanfare is the reigning J’Ouvert Band of the Year.

At Sunday’s launch, DJ Cutting Crew kept patrons on their feet dancing until late into the night to non-stop soca hits from yesterday, this year and Carnival 2016. All had a great time.

The right ingredients were also evident on Saturday night when newbie to producing a Carnival band, Simone Edwards, launched her Carnival Monday night band—Angels of Light—at the Queen’s Park Oval. 

An innovative idea aimed to restore mas on a Carnival Monday night in Port-of-Spain, the band will parade through Woodbrook and will eventually cross the stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah.

All seemed delighted by the idea and the costumes. Guests included Grenada ambassador to T&T, Dr Patrick Antoine; deputy Port-of-Spain Mayor, Kerron Valentine; former mayor, Louis Lee Sing; George Aboud; Anthony Fifi; Richard Saunders; former parliamentarian NiLeung Hypolite; and attorney Carol Bernard. Keeping guests entertained were DJ Kaotic and performances by 5Star Akil, Snakey and K-Rich. 

Belmont Exotic Stylish Sailors (Bess) also launched its Carnival 2016 mas presentation on Saturday night. 

Its launch of A Touch of Nature was held at the Police Mess on Long Circular Road, St James. This launch was kept lively with some great fancy foot work by costumed masqueraders doing the fancy sailor steps. Guests also showed off their best fancy sailor routines at a competition.

Long before there was a Trini Posse Stand at the Queen’s Park Oval, when the formation of this crew was but an idea, Sean “Gruff” Grosvenor used to provide music for a group of friends who would gather under a Samaan tree at the north-eastern corner to watch cricket at the venue. 

I have fond memories of Gruff as he would keep the “posse” entertained by playing calypso, reggae and rock hits on his little music box. Each time Brian Lara struck a boundary, Gruff’s signature tune to herald the stroke would be Under the Sycamore Tree. 

Unfortunately Gruff passed away four years ago but he is remembered regularly by the members of the Posse. This is year 27 of Gruff Parang, an annual event originally held by friends at his aunt’s home in Westmoorings. Eventually it grew and went from a house lime to Under the Trees at The Nomandie for a few years. 

Friends of Gruff have carried on his legacy by organising the annual Gruff Parang. Attendance grew up to 1,200 patrons and is probably the best-value  all-inclusive party and Christmas lime. 

Aside from being attended by many of the “Who’s Who” in the land, music and entertainment are supplied by DJ Kern Crosby, DJ Hi Fidelity Less Than Zero, Scrunter and other parranderos. 

The “Gruff” foundation has donated all proceeds from the party to many organisations, including the Just Because Foundation; Reach for Recovery; Finbar Ryan Geriatric Home; Immortelle Children Centre; It’s to the Kids Foundation; Love Movement Outreach Programme; and the Princess Elizabeth Home, over  the last four years. Funds also support education expenses for Hakiyah Neptune, and medical expenses for Rohan Khalawan.

Friends of Sean “Gruff” Grosvenor Foundation will hold its annual parang party tomorrow, from 6 pm, at St Andrew’s Golf Course, Moka, Maraval. 

Come celebrate Gruff’s life and legacy with his family, including his mother, sister, brother and aunt.

Kaiso Blues Cafe & Lounge, formerly Martin’s Piano Bar on 85 Woodford Street, Newtown, subsequently named Tiffany’s, has gone back to its original form with Carl Jacob at the helm. Jacob said he was happy to have the popular showplace return to its original  purpose, providing a space for local artistes to express themselves.

“We originally wanted Kaiso Blues to be a place where the public was exposed to their favourite artistes and to see some new, upcoming ones. We are back and intend to regularly feature quality performances, with our prices set at an affordable rate,” Jacob said. 

Popular artistes including Pelham Goddard, Patti Rogers, Roger George, Robert Munro, Relator, KV Charles, Chuck Gordon, Brother Superior, David Boothman and Dougie Redon have performed at Kaiso Blues in its short existence.  

Last Sunday, Juliet Robin showcased Juliet Robin De Band, attracting Clive Zanda, Chantal Esdelle, Natasha Joseph, Faye Husbands, Michael Boothman and Louis Nurse to the launch. Featuring a scaled-down version, Robin says the full band will be on stage, powered by an imposing horn section for Carnival 2016.

Tonight, Kaiso Blues features Relator and Los Vikingos de San Jose. Tomorrow, Black Rose takes spotlight and then, for Groovin’ on a Sunday: Dean Williams & Friends. 

The turnout was tremendous on Saturday evening when principal Anna Pounder, staff, students of St Joseph’s Convent, Port-of-Spain, and coordinator Noel Aming staged the third edition of their annual Parang in a Pot competition.

The contest fielded four groups from the junior school and eight from the senior classes. Thespian Cecilia Salazar hosted the show, with the contestants judged by veteran music musician Michael Germain, vocalist Natalie Yorke and T&T Guardian editor Peter Ray Blood.

There was entertainment galore on the evening, beginning with a combined steelband of St Joseph’s Convent and St Mary’s College students, and including parang groups of St Joseph Convent’s teachers and male Sixth Form students, and songs by soca artiste Kes.

Performances included traditional parang classics and two test pieces—Angel Gabriel (juniors) and Ave O Maria (seniors). Patrons were treated to traditional Christmas delicacies as well as stalls with traditional bazaar games like Hoop-la.

Everyone seemed to have a good time at the event and it was a beautiful sight to see young boys and girls having clean fun, dancing to the performances. Parang in a Pot is a positive incentive to Spanish students as they have to articulate the Spanish lyrics of their selections.

As they performed, almost every group had a routine to embellish their songs, reminiscent of Alicia Jagessar and Los Alumnos de San Juan. Starting at 7.10 pm, Saturday’s event ended at 9.10 pm. 

PARANG IN A POT: RESULTS

Best Dressed Group:
Las Paranderas Bellisimas (form Nat Sci)

Best Soloist (Juniors):
1st: Dominic Akal (Hermanas de Parranda, form 3N)
2nd: Los Angeles de Maria (forms 1K & 1M)

Best Soloist (Seniors):
1st: Chelsea Fraser (form 5, Nat Sci)
2nd: Kristina James (form 5, Nat Sci)

Overall—Juniors:
1st: Hermanas de Parranda (form 3N)
2nd: Los Angeles de Maria (forms 1K & 1M) and Chicas Lindas (forms 2K & 2M)
3rd: Los Picantes (form 3K)

Overall—Seniors:
1st: Las Reinas (Upper Sixth form)
2nd: Las Paranderas Bellisimas (form 5, Nat Sci)
3rd: Las Damas de la Rosa (form L6, Nat Sci)

Kevon Carter has just finished an outstanding performance in Brian Mac Farlane’s show Christmas Joy, where he performed with a cast of T&T's best musicians. 

The DNA of this talented 36-year-old is distinctly for the performing arts as he is the product of the artistic Carter family, originally of Barataria, including his uncles, George Carter of Los Alumnos parang group and iconic dancer Jeffrey Carter, now domiciled in Europe.

“With the foundation of my family it was only natural that I would pick up on the arts,” said Carter. “At about the age of 12 I picked up the cuatro and began playing some stuff. 

This led me to join Los Alumnos de San Juan. I played with them for roughly two years, doing so up to the age of 14.” Carter then progressed to playing the guitar, teaching himself along the way. 

At age 17, Carter migrated to New York. He said: “So after my CXC exams my brother Jason and I went there to meet my mother. In the States I did the routine teenage stuff, going to college and getting a job afterwards.” After being resident in the Big Apple for seven years, the lure of music pulled Carter back into its web. 

“That’s when the music bug bit me,” he said, “and I started to frequent many lounges at which live bands performed. On specific nights, they would have open mic segments where musicians in the audience would be invited to perform a number. I grew addicted to that. I auditioned for American Idol in 2003 but only made it to the second round. It was a small stepping stone for me but I was determined to continue developing my craft as a vocalist and as a musician. That is when I began composing my own songs, with Jason.” Still resident in New York, Jason is popularly known as GBM Nutron.

Carter continued: “Jason and I continued in the music business beginning when we were still green in this business. We helped each other develop, growing together as artiste/musician.”

Carter and his brother recorded the single Celebrate Life in 2012, featuring Shal Marshall. He returned home to Trinidad to promote the song and decided to stay in Trinidad for two months. He said: “I did a lot of promotions, met a lot of people and did some networking during my time here. Then, Imij & Co was shopping around for a male lead vocalist. I landed the gig but had to return to New York. In July 2012, Imij leader Joey Ng Wai contacted me and suggested that I return to the band and do some collaborative work. To decide on Joey’s offer was a no-brainer. I returned and the experience has been a most wonderful one.”

Though still working with Imij & Co, Carter continued to do a lot of his own work, which landed him last September’s Kevon Carter Unplugged, an event which was immensely successful when held at Fiesta Plaza, in MovieTowne. “Prior to that Unplugged event, I had continued composing and performing my own material,” said Carter. “I do not consider myself a full-fledged soca artiste. I am just an artiste who strives to create good music that would be appreciated by audiences that want quality music.

“I think that our composers could do much better in terms of content. A lot of mediocre stuff is being accepted and labelled as the music of T&T. For many of our artistes, our music is just a seasonal hustle for a local and Caribbean audience. I could count on one hand the artistes who are doing anything positive for the music, or for taking the music of T&T beyond the borders of the Caribbean Sea.

“I would love to see more substance in the music, as well as a broader content for the music. Wine and jam is all good, for a carnival, but where is the longevity of that music? And which global audience does it embrace or attract? I would also like to see more unity within the music industry. 

“It is the only way we will be able to move forward in a positive manner.”

About how he became involved in Mac Farlane’s Christmas Joy, Carter said: “I was singing at a function last year and Mr Mac Farlane was a member of the audience. After my set he approached me personally and told me he wanted to do a Christmas production and wanted me to be a part of it. The experience of doing that production was magnificent and rewarding for me as I had never done musical theatre before. For one of my songs, I had to act, so that pushed me in a different dimension as an artiste. 

“The cast that I worked with, like Wendell Constanine and Wendy Sheppard, was overwhelming. I was nervous at first but they mentored me, guided me and kept me composed and focussed. I can see myself becoming addicted to that musical theatre realm. It is also good for my resume.”

Because of working on a project that includes producing an EP, Carter will not be producing any new music for Carnival 2016, but will continue performing with Imij & Co for Carnival 2016. He said: “I am currently in the studio working on that release which I hope to release by May 2016. Outside of that, I am open to more offers to do more musical theatre. My long term goal is to simply produce music of substance with my work—the Kevon Carter brand—that has depth, is inspirational and is good music.”

“Music, or Die Trying” has been CC’s credo since her entry into the local music industry and this time around she is determined to make her mark on the music landscape. CC, born on June 26, 1989 in Belmont, was christened Crystal Charles and has always had a natural passion to be an entertainer. “All I do is focus on my music,” said the singer. “I have been performing for as long as I can remember.”

Highly motivated and confident that she has the ability to perform and entertain alongside the world’s best, CC credits her late father as the main inspiration for her talent. She said: “I honestly love music and dancing. I have family who sing and dance on my father’s side of the family, so I think I inherited this love for the performing arts from him.

“The first time I ever sang in front of people was at my school (St James Secondary) graduation. I sang Mariah Carey’s Hero and when I was finished I had people crying with emotion.”

CC actually began singing at age ten doing so in her school choir, church and by participating in the community, schools talent shows and competitions, with the solid encouragement of her family, teachers and friends. She entered her first amateur competition (Synergy Soca Star) in 2007, with a La Vern Als composition, Jam Meh For Carnival. 

In 2008, CC again entered Synergy Soca Star and this time she made it to the Top 12 with the high energy composition Wine Down Low, written and produced by Umi Marcano.

CC’s first major break came in 2009 when she signed a three-song deal with the Non Destructive Label. Her three pieces—Crossing the Savannah, What Yuh Want Tonight, Dreamer—proved her versatility over soca and its hybrid genres like chutney and groovy. 

Inspired and motivated, CC challenged herself and entered the International Soca Monarch where she made it to the semi-final.

In 2010, CC had her first “real” hit—Steam—featuring Benjai and Kernal “Kitch” Roberts. The song was written by Roberts and was produced by  G Master and Roberts on the AMA rhythm. This rendering saw a wave of popularity, resulting in CC being a nominee for the 2010 Soca Awards in the category of Best New Artiste. 

In 2011, again working with Roberts, CC released Dais It Dey, a single which received heavy rotation on the airwaves, both locally and internationally.

The following year CC took a hiatus from music to give birth to her daughter, Mia. Returning to the studio from maternity duties, CC was back at it again releasing a song called Soca Ah Luv Yuh in 2013, again making it to the semi-finals of the International Groovy Soca Monarch competition. 
CC continued to grow in the soca industry and last year she joined forces with the Road March icon SuperBlue to release Party Behind Meh, produced by Samuel Jack at Studio 21. 

This single placed her once more in the semi-finals of the International Soca Monarch, this time in the Power category. For Carnival 2016, CC is keen to soar even higher and hit the jackpot with the release of her first single, Carnival Day, written by Sancha Samara and again produced by Samuel Jack of Studio 21.

“The songs I normally sing are usually rude girl songs,” said CC, “but this one is more a sweet melody, sing along, playful song about Carnival day. I am very pleased by the response of the public to my song which is being played regularly on the airwaves. All I want is for people to enjoy and appreciate my music.”

CC has been thankful for the success afforded to her thus far and has enjoyed every moment of it. She intends, through her  dedication, hard work and passion, to become more recognised in the local and international soca music industry.

“I hope the whole of T&T and the Caribbean could hear my song and my music. I am entering the International Soca Monarch competition again and I am hoping with crossed fingers that I could make it to the final this time. I have made the semi-finals of this competition on four previous occasions and next year I really would want to go further.”

Despite a hectic weekend I still managed to make it to the Queen’s Park Oval on Sunday to see the T&T Red Force mauled by the Guyana Jaguars on the third day of the fourth round of the WICB Professional Four-Day Cricket League. Our lethargic bowlers were up against some experienced Guyanese batters including veterans Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Christopher Barnwell. 

While the Oval game must have been entertaining for Guyana’s fans—especially when Red Force painfully conceded defeat after lunch on Monday—for locals, the weekend was filled with entertaining events showcasing Christmas and Carnival music. Actually, the weekend entertainment package began on Thursday evening when Spectrum One Entertainment hosted the launch of Rum the Concept TV series at Shakers on the Avenue, on Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook.

This event was also used to unveil plans for the January 10, 2016, return of the once very popular IT Mc Leod all inclusive fete, to be held at The Anchorage, Chaguaramas.

Shakers assumed the ambience of “rum heaven” on Thursday because of the wide variety of rums being offered for tasting. Popular brands and vintages offered included El Dorado (5 and 15 Year Old); Mount Gay (Black Barrel and XO); Appleton (Signature and Rare Blend 12 Year); XM (5 and 12 Year); and Angostura (No 1, 1919 and Single Barrel).

Rum the Concept is a travel and culture series designed to provide a memorable television viewing experience for the Caribbean and internationally. The series is produced and directed by self-proclaimed rum connoisseur Andre Crichlow.

The true stage and launching pad for Rum the Concept will be the IT Mc Leod fete, reprised in honour of the late Isaac Thurliff Mc Leod and the contributions he has made to his community and the local business world.

Besides Crichlow, among the liquor experts seen on Thursday at Shakers were Angostura’s Sheldon Roach, Reza Mohammed, Colin Archer, and Spectrum One’s Colin Blaze, co-director of Rum, the Concept TV Series.

On Friday, capital city Port-of-Spain was in a mess the entire day as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) held its annual Parang Competition at Woodford Square from the morning, followed by the launch of the 2016 International Soca Monarch Competition on Brian Lara Promenade. The ISM launch, fuelled by CNC3 TV and radio frequencies Slam 100.5FM and 105.1FM, was off the hook as it featured some of the more popular soca artistes.

On Saturday night, PCS Nitrogen Silver Stars Steel Orchestra premiered its 25th anniversary of Parang & Steel on Tragarete Road, Woodbrook, at its Newtown panyard, and the playbill included Baron (Timothy Watkins), 2013 Digicel Rising Star winner Ancil Valley, Los Dinamicos parang group and host band Silver Stars. Charmaine Pouchet, widow of the Steel & Parang founder Edwin Pouchet, said this week, “Saturday was fantastic; great turnout and great performances.” 

Silver Stars is also holding the second edition of its Parang & Steel 

tomorrow night, headlined by Chutney Soca Monarch Rikki Jai (Samraj Jaimungal), Wendy Sheppard and La Divina Pastora. 

A rollicking time was had by the large crowd which attended the annual Parang Street Jam held by Cheers Pub in St James. People jammed the intersection of Quamina and Mooneram Streets and danced through the night to the music of Love Bunch parang group, Sapophonics Steel Orchestra, Unity Tassa group and a couple disc jockeys. Ballast for the liquor which flowed like water, patrons enjoyed hops and ham, hops and roast beef, and chicken wings prepared by Cheers boss-lady Yasmin Boland and her staff.

The weekend’s big steelband event was Diantonic Steel Orchestra’s fifth anniversary celebrations held in Siparia, at the corner of Mary and Edward Streets, on Sunday evening.

Although the music fraternity will be saddened by today’s funeral service of much beloved musician Raf Robertson at the Cathedral of Holy Trinity in Port-of-Spain, at 1.30 pm, there is no letting up of live entertainment nationwide. This evening, crackshot pan player Dane Gulston will host the launch of 2016 Panorama CDs at his Massy Trinidad All Stars pan theatre on Duke Street at 6.30 pm. Artistes expected to perform include De Original De Fosto Himself, Clive Telemaque, Sheldon Reid, Daniel and Denilson Gulston, Renegades Junior Steel and Robert Munro & Friends.

Tomorrow, Pan Trinbago Inc will host its annual Christmas Appreciation Dinner at the VIP Lounge, Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, at 7 pm. Pan musicians and supporters are expected to exchange T-shirts seen at Panorama for their fashionable glad rags for the event. 

Two hot Woodbrook fetes tomorrow are Foxy, The Party for Sexy Ladies (Purple Passion), held by Victoria’s & The Goodmen Crew at De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp); and Vice & ICE2 on De Avenue, at Club Adrenaline, 33 Ariapita Avenue.

Things should cool down by Sunday, despite the Chaguaramas Development Authority (CDA) holding yet another edition of its popular Parang on the Broadwalk, on The Broadwalk, WMR, Carenage, at 5.30 pm. Sunday’s concert will feature Amantes de la Musica and Voces Jovenes.

Music Festival Association celebrates 75 years in 2016
The T&T Music Festival Association premieres its Diamond Jubilee Celebrations with the hosting of its 31st Music Festival from February 14 to March 12, 2016 at venues in North and South T&T. 

Founded in 1941 as the Trinidad Music Association, the main activity was the holding of monthly meetings and gatherings at which its members played, sang and discussed music. It was in this atmosphere that some dedicated people, spurred on by the inimitable Helen May Johnstone, decided to hold a Music Festival with the aim of encouraging the appreciation of music.

The first Music Festival was held in March 1948, with the preliminaries at the Royal Victoria Institute (now the National Museum) and the finals at the Princes Building (now the site of National Academy for the Performing Arts, Port-of-Spain). Since then, the Music Festival has been a staple of cultural life in T&T. It has created lasting memories for people in all walks of life and launched the careers of many of our outstanding musicians in all genres of music.  

The 31st Music Festival will feature Junior (daytime) and Open (evening) Classes. Musicians, music teachers, schools and others who may be interested in participating can obtain a copy of the syllabus and registration forms at www.ttmusicfestival.org

Patrons and supporters can receive the Association’s newsletter and updates on other Diamond Jubilee activities by emailing info@ttmusicfestival.org using the subject “Newsletter request.” You can also keep up to date on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ttmusicfestival, or on Twitter: @ttmfa

For further information, contact:
National Office: 9 Avenue First, Ste. 4, St James; info@ttmusicfestival.org
North: 8 Rust Street, St Clair,  (756-1236/789-4929); north@ttmusicfestival.org
South: 2 Ruth Avenue, Les Efforts West, San Fernando (333-0402); south@ttmusicfestival.org
Tobago: 495-6441/771-1872/309-0750; tobago@ttmusicfestival.org

A very special Christmas production with appeal for the entire family has been scheduled for Saturday evening. Quite Exquisitely Done Company Limited (QED), a company comprising Edward Cumberbatch, Nigel Floyd and Raymond Edwards, is staging One Night in December at Estate 101, located at 101 Saddle Road, Maraval.

Edwards has been ailing with osteomyelitis for ten years and had the heel bone on his left foot amputated last year. Currently using a wheelchair, he continues to convalesce. The upbeat baritone said: “I might be in a wheelchair, but don’t let that fool you—the voice is still very good.”

Anyone knowing Edwards will concur that he is a fighter, having beaten cancer and now coping with diabetes. He said: “Mine has been an interesting journey. But I always try to look for the positive in life and every circumstance. 

“The reason why I now have to use the wheelchair is to allow the wound to heel properly and completely. Because of that, I have now experienced what the disabled community faces every day. A simple thing like having to get on stage, or get into a building, or even just going down the sidewalk in Port-of-Spain has caused me to become aware and to want to use whatever influence I have to point these issues out to those who can do something about it. I am not the first performer in a wheelchair and I will not be last.”

In 2003, Edwards suffered colon cancer and had part of his colon removed. He jokingly said: “I now have a ‘semi colon’. Colon cancer runs in my family. My baby brother, Richard Edwards, who works with Royal Caribbean as a cruise director, was diagnosed with it last year. The same surgeon that did my surgery, Alan De Freitas, performed Richard’s surgery as well when I was recovering. Both Edwards boys are back to full strength. My father died of colon cancer in 1990. He was diagnosed with it at age 20 and then it recurred in 1978 when he was in his 40s. He died of it at age 60.”

Edwards believes his struggles with illness have made him a stronger person, allowing him to champion the causes of the less fortunate. He said: “I learn from every experience and what I have learned is that cancer is not a death sentence. The treatment that my father received was not as good as the treatment that I received ten years after his death. The treatment that my brother received last year was even better than the treatment I received. So people need not to be afraid of cancer or diabetes, or any illness. They need to face it head on and get help and support. 

“There are people in Trinidad who know what they are doing. The folks at Sangre Grande Hospital are especially excellent. They are a world class hospital. They are doing first world medicine and they still have that village community spirit which helps lift the spirit of a patient. They are really lovely, treating everyone admitted there the same way, like family.”

About his company QED, Edwards said: “We were a singing group before, but decided to begin doing events, so we formed the company a few years ago. This is our first major venture. We approached the management of Estate 101 in Maraval because the venue just suited exactly that we were looking for. It is really a beautiful location.”

Saturday’s programme will commence with cocktails at 6.30 pm, with the show beginning an hour later. “We didn’t want to do merely a concert,” said Edwards, “but we decided to do a television special. We have partnered with CNMG (the company Edwards was associated with for many years) so they will film and screen the production during the Christmas season. This is especially for our fans who live abroad, who will be able to view it on the Internet.”

Edwards added: “We intend to make this an annual concert. The drive is not about making money but about giving back instead. We would like to donate part proceeds every year and this year’s beneficiary will be Vitas House L’Hospice. They have been lovingly tending to the needs of terminally ill citizens for years. A lot of people don’t know the excellent work they are doing.”

Cumberbatch is a world class tenor, winning an international music festival in South Africa a few years ago. He sings with The Lydians. For his day job, he is a professor at UTT. “He is a mild mannered math teacher by day and a superstar on the stage at night,” said Edwards.

Floyd is an attorney, is very well known as a composer and for his work with The Marionettes Chorale. Edwards owns a media company and does voice overs and “quiet media consultancy.”

Steelbands are already in competition mode for the 2016 Panorama competition with most bands already selecting their tune of choice. Some bands are also located at new venues, including Desperadoes, West Stars, Woodbrook Playboyz and the new Newtown Playboys. 

Last weekend, Desperadoes began its trek from the band’s “spiritual” home on Laventille Hill to Frederick Street, Port-of-Spain, at the old Greyfriar’s Church site. 

Originally located on Tragarete Road, Newtown, Woodbrook Playboyz is now temporarily housed on Nizam Street, St James, and Newtown Playboys was recently launched on Tragarete Road. West Stars, a band managed by former Phase II Pan Groove manager Peter Aleong, has moved from its Jamaat al Muslimeen site and is being accommodated next to Starlift Steel Orchestra on Mucurapo Road Extension.

There have also been changes as far as Panorama arrangers go with Desperadoes’ Robbie Greenidge now arranging for Starlift and Clive Zanda, formerly of Siparia Deltones, replacing him at Desperadoes. Foreign-based Earl La Pierre is arranging for Harmonites, while young Earl Brooks Jnr will arrange for Sforzata.

One other significant change reported this week is that of Petrotrin ending its sponsorship of Woodbrook’s Phase II Pan Groove. The popular Woodbrook band is now sponsored by Hadco. History could be made at next year’s Panorama competition with the entry of the first all-female steel orchestra to compete in the 43-year-old competition. 

Based in Malick, Platinum Steel Orchestra, led by Lauren Pierre and Jenna James, will make its debut playing Blue Boy’s Unknown Band, also arranged by a female musician, veteran pan player Natasha Joseph. 

In the Christmas spirit
Pulse was given the royal treatment last week when he attended two Christmas-styled events, though one was actually the launch of a 2016 Carnival fete. On Saturday, I attended the all-inclusive fund-raiser at Wayne Johnson’s expansive Carmel Valley Estate in the hills of Moka, Maraval. 

Despite challenges with power outages, once the generator kicked in, fun was had by all, dancing the night away to the strains of Los MDEos parang band and the G Sharp Band. 

The fun continued on Sunday when Paragon Sports & Cultural Club launched its Ultimate Seaside Soca 2016 fete at its Cocorite clubhouse. Drinks were reasonably priced and a sumptuous Christmas lunch was served. 

Calypsonian Poser, Los Cantantes Festivos parang group and DJ Cardo entertained guests.

Forget next year; Carnival 2016 will be up and running from tomorrow, at 4 pm, with the season’s first “big fete.” D Cocoa Crew and Paprazzi Carnival are holding Switch—Start D Bacchanal Cooler Fete at the Poolside, Hilton Trinidad, Port-of-Spain, a fete that can be expected to field almost all of popular soca selections already released.

Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) will hold its Entertainers Fete (the Calypsonians Welfare Fundraiser) at the Savannah on New Year’s Day, at 6 pm. The first calypso tent to open its door will be Klassic Ruso, on January 7, at Port-of-Spain City Hall, at 8 pm.

In less than a month—Sunday, January 24 to be exact—Pan Trinbago is expected to stage at the Savannah its monster pan explosion: National Panorama semi-finals.

Carnival fetes and events are scheduled for every weekend until Carnival Sunday (February 7) with an estimated 25 all-inclusive fetes planned nationwide for that day.

n St Mary’s College Past Students Union holds Fete with the Saints.
Venue: St Mary’s College Grounds, Serpentine Road, St Clair.
Time: 5 pm.

• RED, the ultra exclusive inclusive Carnival fete, under the patronage of Faris al Rawi, music by Kes the Band, KI & The Band, Naya George & Invazion 5.0, Patrice Roberts, Third Bass and much more.
Venue: Naparima Bowl, San Fernando.
Time: 5 pm.

• Tropix Entertainment holds Fire Fete – Re-ignition; Cooler Edition, music by Bunji, Fay Ann & The Asylum Vikings Band, Lyrikal, 5 Star Akil, Third Bass, Iwer George and St Lucia’s Teddison John.
Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 9 pm.

• KH Entertainment holds Cooler Rama.
Venue: Poolside, Centre of Excellence, Macoya.
Time: 10 pm.

JAN 22:
Riddims of Sahara.

• Venture Credit Unions holds annual Ronnie & Friends Carnival fund-raising all-inclusive.
Venue: Venture Carpark, 144 Southern Main Road, Couva.
Time: 8 pm.

• The Golden Girls third annual all-inclusive Carnival Fete, music by DJs Sox and Nick NYSE.
Venue: Goddard’s residence, 10 Tenth Street, West Cane Farm Avenue, Trincity.
Time: 9 pm.

JAN 23:
• TUCO hold National Calypso Monarch preliminary.
Venue: OWTU Hall, Henry Street, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 9 am.

• Queen’s Royal College OBA holds Fete Royal, music by Roy Cape All Stars, Asylum Vikings Band, Kes the Band, Olatunji and more.
Venue: QRC Grounds, Hayes Street, St Clair.
Time: 5 pm.

• Randy Glasgow Promotions stages Ladies Night Out 2016 Mega Concert, feat Kes the Band, Bunji Garlin, Fay Ann Lyons & Asylum Vikings, Destra & Bakanal, Olatunji, Ricardo Drue, Nadia Batson & Sass, Nikki Crosby, Shiv Shakti Dancers, Jah Cure, Isasha and more.
Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

JAN 24:
TUCO holds National Calypso Monarch preliminary.
Venue: Palm’s Club, Pointe-a-Pierre Road, San Fernando.
Time: 9 am.

• Pan Trinbago Inc stages National Panorama semi-finals.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 11 am.

• UWI Fete 2016—Escape to Paradise—Cuba.
Venue: Principal’s Grounds, UWI, St Augustine.
Time: 11 am.

JAN 25:
• Tuco stages 2016 National Extempore preliminary.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 8 pm.

• Unknown Concepts holds Carnival Cups cooler party.
Venue: The Anchorage, Chaguaramas.
Time: 11 pm.

JAN 29:
• Army Fete Total Recall 2016, music by Machel Montano, Roy Cape All Stars, Bunji, Fay Ann & The Asylum Vikings Band, Destra Garcia & Bakanal and more.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

JAN 30:
Tuco stages Calypso Fiesta (2016 National Calypso Monarch semi-finals).
Venue: Skinner Park, San Fernando.
Time: 11 am.

• Fatima College Past Pupils hold their Carnival fete.
Venue: Fatima College, Mucurapo Road, St James.
Time: 5 pm.

• Gulf all-inclusive.
Venue: The Rig Carpark, Gulf View, La Romaine.
Time: 7 pm.

• Randy Glasgow Productions stages Chutney Brass 2016—A Night of Stars, with Dil-e-Nadan, KI & 3Veni, Melobugz, Bmerz, Rampersad Brothers, Indie Art, Bee Gees tribute band, Shweta Subram and more.
Venue: Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre.
Time: 7 pm.

n The International Soca DJ Competition.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 8 pm.

FEBRUARY:

FEB 1:
• Tuco stages 2016 National Junior Calypso Monarch Final.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 9 am.

• Ice Picks Sports Club’s Plenty Love & Happiness Carnival Fete, music by DJs Cutting Crew, Sir Charles, NY’s Casanovas, Crosby Sounds and Newtown Playboys.
Venue: The Harvard Club, Serpentine Road, St James.
Time: 9 pm.

FEB 2:
• ValeVibe Cooler with music by DJ Alicia the Duchess, plus Private Ryan, Nuphoric, Barrie Hype and Assassin Singh—Artiste Team.
Venue: Bayview, Maracas.
Time: 11 am.

• TUCO stages Rapso Explosion.
Venue: Nalis, Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 5.30 pm.

• Fall Out Carnival.
Venue: Queen’s Park Oval, Woodbrook.

• Carnivale—Sushi and Soca—cooler fete.

FEB 3:
• D Original ArmyBoyz Promotionz hosts Runaway bikini wrap cooler boatride, music by DJs Professionals, Linx and Shaun 3.0.
Venue: The Point Loma, Water Taxi Pier, Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 1 pm.

• Deja Vu all-inclusive.
Venue: Jamboree Park, Valsayn.
Time: 6 pm.

• Paragon Sports & Cultural Club holds Ultimate Seaside Soca 2015.
Venue: Paragon Club, 2 Foreshore Lands (next to Massy Stores, Westmall), WMR, Cocorite.
Time: 9 pm.

• La Flor, WS and 3some hold Jam in De Backyard Cooler Edition.
Venue: 12 Victoria Avenue, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 9 pm.

FEB 4:
n Escape to Poison’s Paradise, music by Roy Cape All Stars, Ravi & & Karma, Tunapuna Vibrations Engine Room, Point Fortin Engine Room, DJ Duane and more.
Venue: Playa del Este Sanctuary Resort, Salybia.
Time: 1 pm.

• Tuco stages 2016 Terrific Thursday Kaisorama (Extempore Championship/Categories Final).
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

• Hatched.
Time: 9 pm.

•enue: 02 Park, Chaguaramas.
Time: 10 pm.

• Stranded by the Pool all-inclusive.
Venue: Poolside, Centre of Excellence, Macoya.
Time: 10 pm.

FEB 5:
n phuket...it’s Carnival Friday.
Time: 2 pm.

• Caribbean Prestige Foundation stages 2016 International Soca Monarch Final.
Venue: Hasley Crawford Stadium, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 5 pm.

• NCC/NCBA stage 2015 King and Queen of Carnival Finals.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

Island Style holds La Barge.

FEB 6:
• Scotch bonnet holds Utopia Carnival all-inclusive.
Venue: Sweet Briar Road, St Clair.
Time: 5 pm.

• Pan Trinbago Inc stages 2016 National Panorama Final.
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

• MC Wassy, DJ Spice and Team Soca hold SS Wassy Carnival Cruise.
Venue: Coral Vision, Breakfast Shed Pier, Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

• Insomnia W.E.T.
Venue: West side, Chaguaramas.

FEBRUARY 7:
Shades Breakfast Experience.

• Fall Out Breakfast Party.
Venue: Naparima Bowl, San Fernando.
Time: TBA

• Yawn Day Fete, feat Benjai and more.
Venue: Q Place, 1D Wrightson Road (behind SWWTU Hall), Port-of-Spain.
Time: 10 am.

• NCC/Tuco stages Dimanche Gras (2016 National Calypso Monarch Final).
Venue: Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.
Time: 7 pm.

• FEB 8—CARNIVAL MONDAY

• FEB 9—CARNIVAL TUESDAY

FEB 10:
• Afterblast 2016 DJ Jamboree.
Venue: Ambassador Hotel, Long Cicular Road, Maraval.
Time: 10 am.

• Queen’s Royal College annual post-Carnival reunion & brunch.
Venue: Harvard Club, Serpentine Road, St James.
Time: 11 am.

FEB 13:
• Randy Glasgow Productions stages Rhythms of Love & Romance, feat John Secada and Neval Chatelal.
Venue: Centre of Excellence, Macoya.
Time: 8 pm.

• Randy Glasgow Productions stages North America & Caribbean Largest Laugh Show.
Venue: Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre. 
Time: 8 pm.

FEB 14:
• Randy Glasgow Productions stages North America & Caribbean Largest Laugh Show.
Venue: Shaw Park Complex, Tobago. 
Time: 5.30 pm.

FEB 19:
• Randy Glasgow Productions stages North America & Caribbean Largest Laugh Show.
Venue: Centre Point Mall, Chaguanas. 
Time: 8 pm.

FEB 20:
• Randy Glasgow Productions stages North America & Caribbean Largest Laugh Show.
Venue: Centre of Excellence, Macoya. 
Time: 8 pm.

FEB 21:
• Randy Glasgow Productions stages North America & Caribbean Largest Laugh Show.
Venue: Enchanted Gardens (formerly Nu Image Complex), New Grant, Princes Town. 
Time: 5 pm.

Heeding the Prime Minister’s call for prudent fiscal management, the National Carnival Commission (NCC) has scaled down on spending for Carnival 2016. The NCC has reduced the Carnival budget by $60 million.

“From the NCC’s perspective,” said chairman Kenny De Silva, “there will be some downsizing for Carnival 2016. We are trying to manage any excesses that existed prior to 2016. However, in terms of allocation there will be no major changes.”

One bit of Carnival expenditure that will be eliminated is the Carnival Village which has been staged at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain for the past three years. De Silva confirmed: “We simply don’t have the money to afford it although it was a very laudable project. The budget for the Carnival Village had an estimated ballpark figure of $18 million.”

Back at the helm of the NCC for a third term, De Silva said: “This is my tenth year (2001-2007; 2010-2011; 2016) in the chair so it feels like being back home.

“I am trying to bring new things to the table. I would like to do something with Dimanche Gras as it doesn’t have the same appeal as it did before. At the moment, we are in discussions with producers and designers.”

De Silva explained that the $60 million deficit was not actually a reduction in the Carnival budget; the money was used to pay debts from last Carnival (2015). Despite assurances by De Silva that allocations to special interest groups would be honoured, executive members of Pan Trinbago are concerned at their reduced allocation for 2016. 

Pan Trinbago president Keith Diaz said that Government should be investing more money into indigenous culture with the ominous shadow of recession hovering over the country. 

“At a time of recession,” said Diaz, “culture and social funding should be boosted. This goes a long way in strengthening the spirit of a people.”

Community Development, Culture and the Arts Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly recently held a meeting with the Pan Trinbago executive, and Diaz said that discussions were “frank and honest.”

He said: “The meeting touched on a number of areas concerning the steelband movement, including the shortfall of the allocation of prize money for Panorama as well as assistance to steelbands and appearance fees. Next year sees a record number of steelbands registered for Panorama, 177 bands all told, but there has not been an increase in Panorama prizes for ten years. 

“In 2015, Pan Trinbago was given $34 million and that was for prize money and the other incidentals of the competition. This year we have an allocation of $30 million. We will try to pinch a little here and pinch a little there but it is extremely difficult. We can’t cut prize money and assistance to the steelbands. At this time, with Carnival being so close, it is also very very difficult to source assistance from the corporate sector. I am saying thanks to any corporate body for any assistance they give to steelbands.

“The previous government never gave us the money for the last Steelband Music Festival. All we got was $3 million. They also never gave us the balance of $2 million for the International Panorama. I am very displeased by this as Pan Trinbago is in a deep bind.

“One positive thing though is that Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat kept his word and is at present completing the restoration of Rio Claro Koskeros panyard. To me that is a great gesture he has done.”

Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (Tuco) president Lutalo “Bro Resistance” Masimba said: “We always getting cuts whether the economy is progressing or is in recession. We have to find ways to juggle with what we have. 

However, I  want to give all calypsonians and soca artistes the assurance that the prize structure will remain the same for the National Calypso Monarch competitions and other competitions staged by Tuco.”

Tuco assistant general secretary Shirlaine Hendrickson said: “Our general council decided, regardless of the amount of the subvention, we would not reduce the monarch prize structure. “We simply have to be creative and cut our cloth accordingly. Calypsonians are very resourceful and creative people.”

The much-travelled Hendrickson added that discussions were in progress to decide on the shape of the 2016 Dimanche Gras. 

With the removal of the Carnival Village, the main attraction at the Queen’s Park Savannah will be the Tuco-managed Kaiso House calypso tent, home of a number of former national calypso monarchs like Chucky Gordon, Karene Asche, Duane O’Connor and Singing Sandra. Completion of the arts and crafts booths at this venue is in an advanced stage.

Rosalind Gabriel, president of the T&T Carnival Bands Association (TTCBA), told the Guardian: “Each band leader will have to do what they have to do as far belt-tightening is concerned...So far the NCC has not divulged anything about money, including what the prize structures will be for the many competitions in mas. 

“We are hoping that we will know what the prizes will be before we register for the competitions.”

Pan Trinbago will stage the first Carnival 2016 competition—National Panorama Single Pan (East) preliminary—on January 8. tion order I obtained from the magistrate’s court on account of the harassment and persistent poultry. Eight women with milking cows showed up this morning. You know I am lactose intolerant and I had to hire labourers to shovel away the manure. By the way, Rambo has a licensed shotgun.

January 2. The nine lovelies dancing in front of my house were a hit with the neighbours. Until they became a little too friendly. Divorce proceedings have erupted in three households and I just saw Miss Dulcina throwing her husband’s shirt jacks out the window. 

Not my business, but why would you tell these dancers that I am running a nightclub and would hire them, with full room and board included? They are now refusing to leave because they have no work permits, no money, and nowhere to go.

January 3. You can’t scare me, you little creepozoid. What do you mean sending the gang of Lord brothers to my doorstep! It will take more than ten Lords leaping over my wall to intimidate me. The nine unemployed dancers took care of most of them. And Rambo handled the 10th. Booyaka!
January 4. Listen you little bandit! The 11 pipers piping cocaine outside my house have been arrested by the police. And a nationwide dragnet has been launched for your little rancid tail. 

January 5. Dear John, I feel sorry for you. The pipers cut a deal with the police and have agreed to testify against you at your trial for drug dealing, human trafficking and animal cruelty. The 12 drummers drumming whom you sent to give the entire neighbourhood a migraine will be performing tonight at the benefit concert for the children’s home. Once I explained that you were a very sick man on the Most Wanted List, they were only too happy to help. 

The cows have been adopted by a farmer in Wallerfield; the swans are at the zoo; and the curry duck is simmering on the fire. 
I decided to keep the hens since the children think they are pets. I am also hanging on to the gold rings because I deserve some compensation. 
Rambo ran off with one of the dancers. But no matter. The nightclub idea actually is not a bad venture and business should pick up nicely come Carnival.

• The Twelve Days of Christmas has been spoofed worldwide by everybody in similar and no doubt greater fashion. Accept my humble contribution to international idleness at wrenchelsa@hotmail.com

One day she aims to be “the female Sparrow.” Herminey Victor has been singing since she was a young girl growing up in Vincennes, St David’s, Grenada. She has already won the island’s Road March title and is keen on becoming a National Calypso Monarch as well. She admits that Sparrow has a profound influence on her as she has been listening to his music her entire life and considers him not just a living legend of Grenada but also of T&T and the entire Caribbean. 

Victor, known in the soca world as Myney, was actually born in Trinidad, in Snake Valley, Laventille. She revealed: “My mom and dad are Grenadians so when I was three I went there with them. I went to the Anglican High School in St George’s. Most of my aunts and uncles made up the choir at St Theresa’s Church Choir and they influenced me a lot. 

“I used to try and mimic what they sang. If they sang high, I would sing high, and if they went low, I would follow suit. At school I also got into singing with my classmates. We would get in trouble a lot because we would be more singing than studying.”

Now a solo singer, Victor has done a lot of performing with groups in Grenada, including the popular Frontpage. 

“After so many years of singing with bands,” she said, “I felt that I needed to define myself as a singer and performer so I went solo in 2008. I won the Grenada Road March in 2008 with the song Ten Thousand Masqueraders, which I composed, and became the first female to ever win this title. 

“Back then I really loved Fay Ann Lyons; her sense of style, her voice and her stage presence. Over the years I’ve made a conscious effort to be me and to have my own style.” 

Victor describes her childhood as “fun,” adding, “I grew up with mom and dad, and five brothers but wasn’t much of a tomboy.” The 27-year-old Capricorn said: “I used to do girlish things as I thought by doing so I would get a baby sister. 

As a little girl, my dad and I used to sing together a lot as he had an extensive collection of songs and remembered a lot of songs. I used to be amazed by how many songs he knew, and asked him how he did it. He would reply, “Listen child, listen.”

Travelling is one of Victor’s hobbies, so her winning the 2008 Grenada Road March provided her with the opportunity to do something she really loves. 

She said: “As the Road March champion I was able to travel and perform in England; I went to Barbados and performed in the International Soca Monarch competition there, placing sixth; I also went to St Lucia, Antigua and Carriacou.”

Aside from travelling, Victor has other hobbies: “I also love cooking, interior decorating, dancing and watching cartoons. I enjoy cooking creole dishes like oil down, pelau, provision and saltfish souse, and dumplings and stew chicken. I love many cartoon characters but particularly love the Minions.”

After her successful debut year as a professional artiste, Victor continued to hone her composing and performing skills. She said: “I have been writing for other artistes, including a young lady in Barbados and the young soca artistes in Grenada. I would like to write for some of the Trinidad artistes as well.

“In 2015, I decided to try something new and try my hand at composing and singing calypso as opposed to soca. Unfortunately I didn’t make it to the final of the Grenada Monarch competition but it was a good experience for me, especially for the overwhelming response I received from the public and the radio stations.”

Victor has her sights set on topping the field in the Grenada calypso monarch competition and, in preparation for that island’s 2016 contest, she is wetting her feet in T&T Carnival. She disclosed that she has been resident in Trinidad since 2010, in Felicity, Chaguanas. “I actually came to Trinidad to study,” said Victor, “but, things got complicated, forcing me to hustle jobs while still singing locally and in Grenada.

“Grenadian female vocalists aren’t really represented in Trinidad so I am here to really open that gateway for them to enter.”

Victor’s soca song for T&T Carnival 2016 is Rollin’, produced by Adigun Productions in Grenada, and it is receiving favourable airplay locally. 

“The song has been getting great reviews here,” said Victor. 

“I performed at the launch of the International Soca Monarch in Port-of-Spain and the response to my performance was great, generating over 40,000 views on Facebook. I don’t have too many expectations with this song as it is supposed to be merely my introductory step in Trinidad Carnival.”

Unlike the Panorama final of 1975 when almost every steelband played one selection—Kitchener’s Tribute to Spree—this year’s Panorama is expected to unearth a cornucopia of new, beautiful music. Of the selections heard thus far the competition promises to be an exciting challenge to the arrangers and musicians as the composers seemed to have done their homework and pushed the envelope as far as melodies and song structures are concerned.

I can only imagine the music the 2016 competition would have with the likes of legendary arrangers like the late Clive Bradley, Anthony Williams, Bobby Mohammed, Ray Holman, Earl Rodney and Jit Samaroo. Still competing and expected to produce excellent music are Leon “Smooth” Edwards, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, Robbie Greenidge, Pelham Goddard, Duvonne Stewart, Ken “Professor” Philmore, Terrance “BJ” Marcelle and Clarence Morris.

Apart from the music, Panorama 2016 will be an exciting event with the various shifts of arrangers and an increase in the number of bands (177) registered to compete. Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated development is the ascension of Lopinot’s Supernovas Steel Orchestra which has leapfrogged the medium band category from small to enter the large band category.

Supernovas, runner-up in last year’s International Panorama, will be going to the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain on January 24 playing Samaroo’s arrangement of Breakthrough, composed by Mark Loquan and Samaroo, and sung by defending National Calypso Monarch Chuck Gordon (Roderick Gordon).

Another exciting snippet in the competition is the reuniting of David Rudder and Pelham Goddard to create De Big Yard, the selection of Republic Bank Exodus.

I have heard some unique compositions and one of them is 5 Star Akil’s Different Me, composed by Jovan James, supposedly the choice of Desperadoes. Carlton “Zanda” Alexander is Desperadoes’ new arranger. Another unique composition is Madd Music, sung by Keith Lucas. This tune was composed by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe and Nigel Rojas and is expected to be the tune of choice of Hadco Phase II Pan Groove, another steelband which has had a sponsor shift; from Petrotrin to Hadco. Rojas was also the composer of Happiness, Phase II’s Panorama selection in 2015.

Starlift has made a double shift for Carnival, securing a new sponsor and arranger. With its sponsorship contract with White Oak expired, the legendary Woodbrook steelband is now sponsored by Methanol Holding Trinidad Limited (MHTL). The band’s new arranger is Robert Greenidge, formerly of Desperadoes, and the selection he might be arranging for the band is Kernal Roberts’ Bass on Fire.

Looking southwards, NLCB Fonclaire is playing the same song as Starlift and has decided to remain with the tried and tested in arranger Ken “Professor” Philmore.

Staying south of the border, Skiffle is coming with How She Like It, sung by Hypa Sounds of Barbados. The band has also had a change of arranger as well and its selection will be arranged by a trio of young musicians in Kendall Williams, Odie Franklyn and Marc Brooks.

Defending National Panorama and reigning International Panorama champion Massy Trinidad All Stars, and arranger Leon “Smooth” Edwards, are hellbent on winning the coveted title for a second straight year. A couple weeks ago I heard the band’s selection—Leave We Alone—sung by sweet-voiced Sheldon Reid in the band’s Duke Street pan theatre. It is a beautiful song that has been composed by veteran All Stars musician Clive Telemaque.

I am also excited by how small band Golden Hands will perform. This band of young, extremely talented musicians, once mentored by the late Raf Robertson, is the creation of Franka Hills-Headley and they play wonderful music. For the 2016 Panorama competition, Golden Hands has chosen to utilise the talent of its prodigy musician, young Venessa Headey, who has composed and sings the band’s tune of choice Young and Free.

On the topic of young and free, my pores are raised as I write this, it’s difficult to contain my excitement with a bit of history to be made in this year’s Panorama competition when the first all-female steelband participates. The band is Platinum, based in Malick, Barataria, and it is lead by young musicians Lauren Pierre and Jenna James, both past members of Silver Stars, Potential Symphony and Trinidad East Side. The band also has a female arranger in the person of veteran Natasha Joseph and its selection will be Blue Boy’s Unknown Band.

Another woman to be reckoned with—in the medium band category this year—is Michelle Huggins-Watts, arranger of Valley Harps. She is arranging Leston Paul/Lennox Picou’s Get Up and Dance for the Petit Valley steelband.

Also in the medium category, chomping at the bit is Courts Sound Specialists of Laventille which has stuck by its arranger Ken “Professor” Philmore and will play David Rudder’s Ganges Meet the Nile. Philmore’s arrangement is extremely lively and exciting and, up to press time, he had completed six minutes of the band’s required eight-minutes of playing time, and nothing has been repeated in the arrangement.

So, provided the arrangers spead their wings and embrace the new music and melodies, we can expect an outstanding Panorama competition. In closing, I would like to reiterate my rigid position on steelbands being allowed to go “retro” and compete with “old” songs. I feel that there is much too much new music being made, and eventually wasted, for this to continue.

2016 National Panorama selections:

D Greatest Invention—De Original de Fosto Himself
Lotto Plus—De Fosto
Different Me—5 Star Akil, composed by Jovan James
Madd Music—Keith Lucas, composed by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe and Nigel Rojas 
Ah Love It—Crazy
Breakthrough—Chucky Gordon, composed by Mark Loquan and Amrit Samaroo 
How She Like It—Hypa Sounds
Music Inside Meh Head—Nadia Batson, composed by Johann Chuckaree
We Calypso—SuperBlue
Roxanne—Gerrelle Forbes
Sweetest Escape—Gerrele Forbes
Dem Judges—Joanne Foster, composed by Gregory “GB” Ballantyne and Don Clarke
Young & Free—Venessa Headley
Leave We Alone—Sheldon Reid, composed by Clive Telemaque 
Nostalgia—Anslem Douglas, composed by Gregory “GB” Ballantyne and Carlton “Panman” Harewood
Soca Have Dem So—Anslem Douglas, composed by Gregory “GB” Ballantyne and Mark Loquan
Sweet Lime Energy—Anslem Douglas, composed Brian “Bean” Griffith
De Big Yard—David Rudder, produced by Pelham Goddard 
Ting Ah Ling Ah Ling—Krisson Joseph, composed by Steve Neaves
Big Mama—KV Charles, composed by Michael Gabriel

2016 National Panorama agenda:

January 8: National Single Pan preliminary (Northern Region), The Paddock Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain (6 pm)
January 9: National Single Pan preliminary (South Central Region), Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre (5 pm)
January 10: National Single Pan preliminary (Eastern Region), The Velodrome, Arima (5 pm)
January 11: National Panorama preliminaries (Tobago Region), Buccoo Intergrated Facility, Tobago (7 pm)
January 15: National Single Pan preliminaries (Eastern Region Small and Medium Conventional), Arima (6 pm)
January 16: National Single Pan preliminaries (Northern Region Small and Medium Conventional), The Paddock Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain (6 pm)
January 17: National Single Pan preliminaries (South Central Region Small and Medium Conventional), Skinner Park, San Fernando (4 pm)
January 19: National Panorama large conventional bands judges’ night ( Tobago & Eastern Zones) (7 pm). 
January 20: National Panorama large conventional bands judges’ night (Northern Zone) (7 pm).
January 21: National Panorama large conventional bands judges’ night ( South Central Zone) (7 pm). 
January 22: National Single Pan/Small semi-finals, Pan Trinbago headquarters, Victoria Square North, Park Street, Port-of-Spain (7 pm)
January 24: National Medium and Large Conventional sem-finals, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain (9 am) 
January 31: National Junior Panorama Finals, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain (9 am)
February 1: Arima Panorama Finals, Basketball Court, Arima (7 pm)
February 2: THA Pan Champs Finals, Dwight Yorke Stadium, Tobago (7 pm)
February 4: National Panorama Finals (Single Pan & Small), Skinner Park, San Fernando (6 pm)
February 6: National Panorama Finals (Medium & Large Conventional), Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain (7 pm)
February 13: Champs of Steel Plus, Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain (7 pm)

History will be created in Panorama this year when an all-female steel orchestra competes—a first in the competition’s 53-year existence. From Malick, Barataria, the pan band is called Platinum, and it comprises 35 players. Its leader is 23-year-old Lauren Pierre, while 28-year-old Jenna James manages the band.

While many years ago, two all-female steelbands did once exist in Trinidad—Girl Pat from Newtown, led by Hazel Henley, and Laventille All Girls from Upper Pashley Street, led Cynthia Yuille—Platinum will be the first all-female band to actually participate in Panorama.

“We are a bona fide all-female steelband, with no men playing anything in the band; not toc toc, not scratcher, not cow bell, not drums. Our drummer is Alana White and our engine room includes Gemma Gilding, Mikini, Damika and Cookie,” explained Pierre.

“Yes, we do need the men,” she added: “To tote the pans.”

In an era when thousands of young people prefer partying on The Greens at Panorama, why did these two young women jump into the deep end of the world’s premier steelband competition?

“We decided to do this because of our love for the national instrument,” said Pierre. “We were inspired by our advisor Carlon Harewood who actually gave us the idea in 2013. Carlon is an arranger of more than one steelband, including Potential Symphony and Trinidad East Side. 

“The majority of players in these two bands have always been females so he thought up this unique concept and sold it to us. The decision was spontaneous—we loved the idea immediately.”

James chimed in: “We began thinking of how we would go about getting female pan players interested. It was difficult, as at first we had just about eight women turning out to the practice. So then the plan was to enter Panorama as a small conventional band to create a buzz. Because of the numbers, and after two years, we ... instead entered as a Single Pan band this year.” 

Lauren Pierre

—playing pan since 12

Pierre has been playing pan since the age of 12 when she was a Form One student at Woodbrook Government Secondary School. She said: “The teachers invited students who were interested in playing pan to enter the Schools Panorama competition. Because it was an extra curricular activity, and because I enjoy being out of school, I joined up. The first pan I learned to play was the guitar pan. The school entered the Panorama and we won on that first attempt playing Soca Baptist. I even ended up with my picture in the newspapers.

“I joined Invaders and was placed on its stage side. After a year with Invaders I joined Silver Stars with whom I stayed for three years. I have a lot of nice memories being part of Silver Stars, especially as the leader, the late Edwin Pouchet, was an inspiration. It didn’t hurt that I also became the band’s mascot.”

Leaving Silver Stars after the Newtown band played Showtime and placed third in Panorama, Pierre joined Trinidad East Side and met Harewood. At Silver Stars she also enjoyed the taste of victory when the band won the 2009 Panorama title playing Pouchet’s arrangement of Battlezone. 

About moving to Trinidad East Side she said: “At East Side, Carlon has been like a mentor. You could say it is he who nurtured the concept and actual formation of this all-female steelband.”

Jenna James

—a musician for life

James’ story is slightly different. She explained: “I began in pan as a Form Four student at El Dorado Senior Comprehensive School and my music teacher Niasha Layne-Forde asked who was interested in playing pan. I was encouraged by my classmates ... and I began playing tenor. The school entered the Schools Panorama and, because it was an entirely new band, we placed tenth out of 19 bands. We had just two weeks to practice. The next year we placed third.

“The school didn’t really have a stage side so it was just for Panorama we played. In Form Six, I made a decision that when I graduated I would do music full 

time and joined Fascinators Steel Orchestra and played with them for one Panorama. I moved on to Curepe Sforzata after that and became a member of the stage side. In my first year, Sforzata played Bandoleros, arranged by Yohann Popwell, and placed first in the medium band category in Panorama.”

At the University of the West Indies, pursuing a music degree, James joined Trinidad East East, with whom she still plays. “The journey has been a mixed one for me,” she said. “In Panorama, there have been a number of seconds, thirds and fifths for East Side in the past ten years.”

Both young women concur that they’ve been welcomed to the steelband fraternity and Panorama with open arms by their male counterparts. Said Pierre with a chuckle: “Every man who has heard about our band has volunteered to play with us, wearing wigs and dresses.”

For Panorama 2016, Platinum will be playing Blue Boy’s Unknown Band, arranged by another female pan player, the veteran and renowned Natasha Joseph, who comes with a wealth of credentials. A graduate of Malick Senior Comprehensive’s steelband, Joseph played with Potential Symphony at the age of 16 before joining Barry Bartholomew’s Panazz Players, helping take them to glory as champion of the very popular Pan Ramajay competition. She has also been a drill master of Phase II Pan Groove, and Tobago’s Carib Dixieland and Steel Xplosion.

No flash in the pan

Determined that competing in Panorama 2016 is not some kind of flash in the pan, Pierre said that Platinum shall retain a stage side after the competition. She said: “We intend to grow, and to also incorporate female musicians playing wind instruments, strings and voice. We had a karaoke competition recently that was very successful and much fun, and realised that we have some good singers in our band.”

James said that Platinum is eager to be invited to perform at any steelband events, like Pan in the Countryside. She said: “We have a new Eastern Region executive so we are hopeful that they will keep us in mind.” Pierre is the newly elected assistant secretary of Pan Trinbago’s Eastern Region, one of the youngest executive members on any Pan Trinbago executive.

Platinum is unsponsored thus far and is not averse to attracting a “benevolent sponsor.” 

Pierre revealed: “So far, we’ve received some assistance from Montage Productions Limited, a video production company in Belmont. The committee we have has worked extremely hard in generating funds for the band via donation sheets and fundraisers. We have also had a few paid gigs and this has also helped.”

Pan Trinbago Keith Diaz has welcomed Platinum and said: “This is a first-time thing and this is good. This is our national instrument and it is indicative that women are taking a keen interest in its development and growth. I am also now seeing more female composers and arrangers which we welcome. It is encouraging to see more young people coming forward to play an active role in steelbands and Pan Trinbago. This will guarantee longevity and growth of our organisation, and the development of the national instrument.”

Carnival 2016 holds promise of good things for aspiring soca artiste Hashim Lewis, who is now based in Trinidad. Born and raised in Tortola, BVI to Trinidadian/Nevisian parents, Lewis has been performing for the past eight years. First, he was a gospel artiste in the BVI. Now, he is a soca artiste, having performed as an opening act for Machel Montano, Destra, Shurwayne Winchester, Bunji Garlin and Fay Ann Lyons.

Lewis has released two soca songs for the 2016 Carnival—In de Festival and Vybz Overload. He composed In de Festival, produced by Grenada’s Adigun Productions, and the song is featured on the Amethyst Riddim.

The co-writer of Vybz Overload, this single was produced by Badjohn Republic of T&T. Lewis is satisfied with the feedback both somgs have been receiving. He said: “Airplay rotation has been favourable, especially for Vybz Overload. In de Festival is coping well online and has reached almost 10,000 plays on my Soundcloud page.”

Lewis is pursuing his BA in the Performing Arts at UTT, so he is blending his experience with academia to move forward in the entertainment industry. Reflecting on the past year, he said: “It is not easy balancing a full time school career and a full time love of music.

The benefit of it, though, is because music is my passion, my school work helps me better my performances both in an out of the classroom. My voice has changed a lot since last year and I can certainly feel more bass in my voice. I find that I now have a wider range and better knowledge of my vocal abilities.”

Musically, the past year has also been exciting for the young composer. He said: “I have been approached by a number of artistes and producers to compose material for them since my success with writing on the Kan Kan Riddim last year, shared with Olatunji, Benjai and Sekon Sta. I had written the single Out on de Road for Darnella which enjoyed much popularity.”

Lewis said that jobs have been coming his way “slowly but surely” for Carnival 2016 and added: “I have signed up for next year’s International Soca Monarch competition. I haven’t been in this competition since 2014 but I hope to be back on that stage next year, and hopefully make it to the finals.” Lewis is the first BVIslander to perform in T&T’s International Soca Monarch competition.

“Soca is popular in the BVI,” said Lewis. “It recognises the large names like Machel, Destra, Bunji and Fay Ann as well as artistes from the other islands like Skinny Fabulous (St Vincent), Allison Hinds (Barbados) and Drastic (Antigua). The BVI has its own unique style of soca and it popularises more on bands than individual artistes. But we have young artistes who, seeing what I do, are intent on taking the initiative on spreading their own brand of soca across the islands.”

In years gone by, the BVI shared a healthy relationship with local calypsonians, many of whom have influenced that island’s bards. Lewis said: “Calypso is still recognised in the BVI, so much so that we annually have our own calypsoes and competition when our Carnival is held during the first weekend of August.”

It’s no surprise then that Lewis was also inspired and influenced by T&T artistes. He said: “David Rudder was my first musical inspiration. In fact, he was the first artiste to get me to listen to music, period. His High Mass is my favourite Rudder song. It is still one of my favourite songs and was the first song I ever performed on stage. I was 13 at the time but had been listening to that song and loving it since I waas four years old. 

“I believe that Rudder is the perfect blend between the old age of calypso and the new age of soca music. He is loved and respected by both those generations.

“I also look up to Machel Montano the most as a soca artiste, because of his work ethic, his amazing stage presence and his body of work that spans 30-plus years. My goal is to have a career that is as long and impressive as his—hopefully even more so.”

On Sunday, 69 artistes will take to the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, to compete in the 2016 International Soca Monarch (ISM) semi-finals. 

Yes, this year things are quite different with those moving on from the semi-finals being able to perform in what is being described as a “one soca monarch,” on Fantastic Friday on February 5. This means there will no longer be two separate categories but artistes can perform either a power or groovy soca. 

Last November, director of the brand Peter Scoon announced the change, saying in an interview he believed the separation over the years negatively affected the show in an effort to package it as a television product. 

He stated there were too many gaps and that did not resound well with the pay-per view broadcast. Therefore, the alternative was the best for the 2016 ISM competition.

Seventeen of the best in the semi-finals will now move on to the final, reducing the length of the competition and giving the artistes, according to organisers, a greater opportunity to compete on a more level playing field. 

To get the opinion of some of the competition’s past winners, hosts and even judges, on the change in this year’s competition, T&T Guardian spoke with former judges Judy Noel and Joel “Signal To Noise” Morris, as well as host Mark Anthony and former winner Ronnie Mc Intosh.

According to Morris, who has judged the competition for 12-plus years, he does not see the reverting of the competition as a bad decision but rather, he feels artistes now have a better chance at placing in the competition. He said having the two categories, at times posed a challenge or even disadvantage to some artistes.

“For instance,” he said, “an artiste may have had a great groovy soca but no power song, either because he was not interested in singing a power song or just could not write or perform one and his strong point might have been more so in the groovy, but then when he is competing in the groovy category, his song might be great but then look at how many other groovy songs he had to compete against, his only chance was in the groovy category and vice versa for someone in the power category. 

“So, I believe that going back to this old system was actually a way of going forward in leveling the playing field and giving artistes a good clear and fair competition.”

Noel, Arima secondary schoolteacher, has been a judge of the Soca Monarch competition on 15 occasions. Describing the role of a judge in this competition as “a challenge,” she added, “it is a challenge but we work with strict criteria and this helps. For the preliminaries we work with melody, arrangement and lyrics. We stay strictly within those parameters and they dictate the main basis for our assessment. At the semi-final you also look at stage performance,” she tells the T&T Guardian.

CNMG’s Mark Anthony has been the show host of the Soca Monarch finals for 20 years. One of his fondest memories was the 2001 victory by the Mighty Shadow.

“I just love this competition,” said Anthony. 

“When Carnival begins I look forward to just Soca Monarch. It’s about excitement and getting an adrenaline rush. I love every thing about it.

“Being around William Munro all those years has not just been inspiring but I have fed off his energy. He was so passionate about this event that I shared his vision and enthusiasm.

“I could never have grown tired of hosting the finals because whenever I stepped out there on that stage I simply wanted to be the best representative or ambassador for T&T soca music.

“No kidding, when one competition ended, I began counting down the months, the days, the hours to the next Fantastic Friday.”

One local artiste who can be legitimately defined as an “all-rounder” is Samraj Jaimungal. Professionally known as Rikki Jai, this ultra-talented, bilingual artiste is a veteran calypsonian, chutney singer, Soca Monarch contender and calypso tent performer.

I can clearly still remember Jai performing at the Calypso Spektakula calypso tent, then housed on Henry Street, Port-of-Spain, in the late 80s, rubbing shoulders with calypso icons like the late Mighty Duke, Chalkdust, Blue Boy, Explainer and Lord Nelson. Nightly, backed by Roy Cape All Stars, he won encores for his signature hit single Sumintra, composed by Gregory “GB” Ballantyne.

Though coming from a traditional Hindu family and being raised in Friendship Village, San Fernando, Jai, the fifth of six children, had a passion for calypso. But, this didn’t detract from his love of Indian music, especially Hindu bhajans, inspired by his mother who spoke fluent Hindi and Bhojpuri, and even assisted him in composing some of his songs.

Having attracted the attention of the calypso world and being welcomed and embraced as a bona fide calypsonian, Jai went one step further and ventured into the realm of soca before progressing into the chutney soca genre having sang hit singles like Wine on a Bumsee and Bolo. As an emerging chutney soca artiste he released his Chutney Vibrations compilation.

Now straddling three genres of indigenous music, Jai showed that he continued to be a faithful son of calypso and soca and, in 2001, was tied for first place with Bunji Garlin as the Young King Monarch. He has also been a multiple winner in the Chutney Soca Monarch competition winning the biggest purse in the history of this competition; two million dollars for the 2011 title.

Jai is a consumate artiste who perennially strives to push the envelope of his career and the culture tapestry of T&T. Calypsonian, band singer, soca artiste, chutney soca exponent, Jai also asserted himself in media, holding down a regular slot as a broadcaster on the TBC network, on Sangeet 106.1FM. 

Jai’s most commercially successful release is Mor Tor, a single that featured soca superstar and International Soca Monarch Machel Montano. In 2007, he released songs such as Aj Bhi Jeen and Bodekidal, followed by Barman, and has won the Chutney Soca Monarch title a record breaking six times. 

Again pushing the envelope last year, Jai did something that many considered unthinkable and unprecedented by joining forces with his former rival and another past Chutney Soca Monarch, Ravi B, to win the 2015 title, performing as a duet branded as Team Raja.

This year Jai turns 54 and is still as vibrant and relevant as when he began his career three decades ago. Using his wealth of experience of performing in one of the biggest calypso tents in the land (Calypso Spektakula), on some of the biggest stages, and with two big bands—Triveni and Naya Andaz—Jai now has his own band—Jaimastarz. He said that Jaimastarz is a show band which specialises in all genres of music, “from traditional chutney, to chutney soca, soca, calypso and everything in between.”

Jaimastarz consists of an eclectic blend of new and upcoming musicians as well as established performers. Over the years Jai has been able to build a remarkably strong network of talented musicians and his many years in the music industry acted as the trigger for the formation of the band. 

In a bio of the band, Jai states: “The team is excited about the prospects of taking T&T’s music to the world. An opportunity to work with performers of such high esteem in one band is the unrealised dream of many artistes and one that these band members will not take for granted.

“Together, they possess many years of experience. Each member of the band is motivated by the collective desire to succeed. Dedication, determination, drive and discipline, are the tenets which have aided in the individual accomplishments of each member of the band. Regardless of any setbacks that they may have each faced, they were each able to overcome them all and maintain their love for their respective instruments.

“They, together with the strength of the Rikki Jai brand in the local music industry, creates the base from which the band can propel into the realm of greatness.”

The members of Jaimastarz are the right mix of youth and experience, conventional and unconventional styles but music resonates from deep within their souls. This versatile aggregation has been a dream of Jai’s for a very long time. Jaimastarz will be enjoyed by persons of all ages, races, classes and musical preferences. It is a band for all people and through the power of music will bring people together.

Now considered an elder in calypso, soca and chutney soca, Jai, with Jaimastarz as a conduit, has embarked on doing collaborations with artistes, young and not so young. Jaimastarz’s debut release Kings of the Night has been followed by Leh We Fete, composed by Shaft; and collaborations with Barbados’ Allison Hinds (Suragee); Hunter (Coolers); Guyanese Jumo Primo, formerly of Byron Lee & The Dragonaires (Off the Rocks); and, Terry Gadraj (Take Way Yuh Gyul).

Jaimastarz has also secured a number of bookings for the 2016 Carnival.

Panorama is outgrowing the Queen’s Park Savannah but there’s no alternative venue to stage this premier annual steelband competition, which was born at this venue in 1963. 

This and other challenges perennially face Pan Trinbago president Keith Diaz but he says his organisation is valiantly moving forward, “cutting our suit to the cloth we have.” 

Panorama is here again and come Sunday all roads lead to the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain when Pan Trinbago Inc holds the semi-finals of the 2016 National Panorama competitions for small, medium and large conventional steel orchestras. However, this year’s Panorama semi-final has a bitter sweet taste in the mouths of some pan lovers, mainly because of an increase in some admission fees. 

On Sunday, tickets to the North Stand are priced at $400, $250 for the Grand Stand and $350 for the Greens. For the finals, scheduled for February 6, the admission fees are $800 (Grand Stand, special reserve); $500 (Grand Stand, general); $400 (Grand Stand, eat and west wings); and $450 (North Stand, all inclusive). 

Asked this week about the increase in admission fees Diaz said: “We don’t get any money from government for critical expenditure like the payment of salaries for the four regions and the central executive. Pan Trinbago has to generate its own income and Panorama is our main money earner. Secondly, there is the issue of paying rent for the organisation’s headquarters and offices for four regions. 

That is over $8 million dollars per annum. The people who criticise don’t understand the working of the machinery that is named Pan Trinbago Inc.” Continuing on this year’s event, Diaz added: “The price of the Greens is the same as last year so whoever is complaining is really making much ado about nothing. 

“The Grand Stand accommodates 4,800 patrons while, years ago, the North Stand used to accommodate about 10,000 people. Because of stress requirements etc this was reduced 8,500 last year, in 2016, the approved figure for the North Stand is 7,000 as instructed by the engineers. We could only sell 7,000 tickets, fullstop. Pan Trinbago doesn’t have access to the reserved and VIP booths in the Grand Stand as this is under the ambit of the NCC (National Carnival Commission). 

“We have tried so many various ways to accommodate the crowd while generating revenue, like when we charged a small fee for patrons on the track in 2009. People complained so we stopped that. The country doesn’t have venues to accommodate a Panorama semi-final and final so we’re stuck with the Savannah and have to come up with creative ways to derive revenue as well as continue to tweak the product to ensure satisfaction for the paying patrons.,” Diaz said. 

Despite social network bearing posts that some crews and patrons wont be going to the Greens this year, Diaz vehemently emphasised: “The Greens is definitely not losing appeal! Remember that this is an empty space in the Savannah that we must transform each year to accommodate a crowd of more 9,000 people, with all the necessary amenities. We cater for the young people who wish to enjoy the ambience and flavour that is Panorama. 

The detractors say that the Greens is not a part of Panorama, with some saying that it is actually a nuisance and irritation. But, when those young people attend the Greens, where are they going? Not to Panorama?

“Effective lighting and security outside the Greens has been a challenge so this year we have paid special attention to these areas and have beefed them up. Pan Trinbago is serious about providing a safe environment for our young people, and the visitors who attend Panorama. 

“There has been no fall away in the patronage from the corporate sector. In fact, there has been an increase from companies requesting to attend the Greens and to them I wish to say a very big thank you.” 

Caesar’s Army founder Jules “Julius Caesar” Sobion said: “The Romans of Caesar’s Army will not participate in the ‘lime on the Greens’ at Sunday’s Panorama semi-finals for the first time in ten years. Instead, we will be holding Bacchanal Road at either Hasely Crawford Stadium or at a venue down Chaguaramas. We have been discussing an alternative event to the greens for a while after being on the Greens for ten years.” 

Asked the reason for making the move, Sobion added: Firstly, it’s the cost, especially in a recession year. After the initial cost of the ticket, by the time we add on the posse cost, it comes up to the price of an all-inclusive fee which is not feasible for the organiser or customer.” 

Sobion continued: “The Greens is not as attractive as it was when it began, especially for the special interest parties who have patronised it through the years. While I do believe that the national instrument is worthy of the price of admission to the Grand and North stands it has become too expensive. The Greens though was set apart from those stands and was created for the party people who wish to get the atmosphere of the instrument but not necessarily follow the actual competition on stage.” 

Long standing North Stand group La Flor Promotions is remaining in the stand. La Flor director David George said: “The increase in admission to the North Stand has raised some questions as to what is the justification in Pan Trinbago raising the price of admission, especially in a recessionary period, not to mention a price that is more than that for the Greens. 

“We have been in the North Stand for more than 20 years and our customers are keen to continue attending as we are really bona fide pan lovers; we really enjoy the pan and Panorama. 

“What I have found over the past few years is that because so many big bands are arranging their own tunes, when they come to the Savannah they are not known because the radio stations don’t play their music. This causes a disconnect between the North Stand regulars and the big bands. We tend to enjoy the music of the medium bands more because they play selections with which we are familiar.” 

Turning attention to Pan Trinbago, George said: “Pan Trinbago is pricing itself out of Panorama. Why does Pan Trinbago continue to increase its admission fees. This is abuse to the pan lovers of the land. Eventually the public will find more feasible ways to enjoy themselves on Panorama day; maybe simply go on the track and enjoy the steelbands as they make their way along the Barber Green to the stage.” 

Sunday’s three-part Panorama programme is scheduled to begin at 9 am, with bands in the small band category opening the day’s proceedings.

Conventional (Large Band) semi-finalists and arrangers – Order of appearance: 
1. Sangre Grande Cordettes – A Groovy Sound for Pan (Khion De Las)
2. BP Renegades – Music Inside Meh Head (Duvonne Stewart)
3. Skiffle – How She Like It (March Brooks/Kendall Williams/Odie Franklin)
4. Massy Trinidad All Stars – Leave We Alone (Leon “Smooth” Edwards)
5. PCS Silver Stars – Panoramic (Liam Teague)
6. Harmonites – Soca Have Dem So (Earl La Pierre)
7. Tropical Angel Harps – Nostalgia (Clarence Morris)
8. Hadco Phase II Pan Groove – Madd Music (Len “Boogsie” Sharpe)
9. CAL Invaders – Take That (Arddin Herbert)
10. Desperadoes - Different Me (Carlton “Zanda” Alexander
11. La Brea Nightingales – Nostalgia (Terrance “BJ” Marcelle)
12. Republic Bank Exodus – De Big Yard (Pelham Goddard)
13. Redemption Sound Setters – No No, We Ent Going Home (Michael Toby & Darren Sheppard)
14. NLCB Fonclaire – Bass on Fire (Ken “Professor” Philmore)
15. Supernovas – Breakthrough (Amrit Samaroo)
16. MHTL Starlift – Bass on Fire (Robert Greenidge)
17. birdsong – Dis 1.4.Raf (Andy Narell)

Three of the best calypsoes I have heard this year will not be performed tomorrow at Skinner Park, San Fernando, when Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (Tuco) stages the Calypso Fiesta (National Calypso Monarch) semi-final. 

The songs are Collaboration, sung by Sugar Aloes (Michael Osouna); Marriage Advice by Knobby of south’s Kalypso Showkase; and Trini Vibe by Malaika Ballantyne. 

Aloes, a two-time national monarch and head of Kalypso Revue, told Pulse this week: “I take a rest from competition. I’m not lucky with them calypso judges. I might have to kill somebody.” 

Ballantyne—who sings at the Revue—and Knobby, were not selected for tomorrow’s semi-final. Of the 40 semi-finalists selected, eight (Gypsy, Cro Cro, Singing Sandra, Luta, Chalkdust, Karene Asche, Kurt Allen, Duanne O’Connor) are former national monarchs, with Chalkdust having the most wins in the annual competition. 

Chalkdust and the Mighty Sparrow, with eight titles each, have the most wins in the National Calypso Monarch competition. With the soca genre apparently having a lean season as far as good songs are concerned, authentic calypso has maintained its quality and appeal. 

I have not been able to visit all the calypso tents but of the couple I have been to, I have heard some rather well-composed calypsoes, with good music as well. Coming immediately to mind is Bring Back the Rainbow, sung by young Bevon St Clair, a song that is reminiscent of the late Merchant’s type of calypso and rendered by a young man with a good voice.

On the topic of good, young calypsonians, just crowned 2016 Young Kings Monarch Helon Francis is in tomorrow’s semi-final and will sing Paradise. Not included among the 40 singers is 2016 National Calypso Queen Amrika Mutroo. I cited three calypsoes at the opening of this column, so let me add a few more good songs I have heard. 

US-based Xposer, singing at Kaiso House in Port-of-Spain, has been winning multiple encores nightly for his ditty Too Old For Dat, while Duanne O’Connor of the same tent, and a former national monarch, is similarly witty with his politically-infused Modern Nursery Rhymes. 

Brother Mudada wins lots of laughter singing Dog and Fries—though he risks being accused of “ethnic profiling.” Three of the better calypsoes I have also heard are Canada-based Macomere Fifi of Divas Calypso Cabaret International with Before You Gone, semi-final debutante Stacey Sobers singing One Love, and Skatie’s Back on Track. 

Many times a monarch finalist but never a winner, unfortunately Skatie has been disqualified from the semi-final as Tuco claimed on Wednesday that he had not paid the registration fee to enter the competition. 

He has been replaced by first reserve Joanne Foster of Kalypso Showkase. Her song is Thou Art Loosed. Though not a newcomer to the monarch competition, former Young Kings Monarch Stephen Marcelle has a good song in Shame on You and is hoping that he receives the judges’ nod this time around to go to the Queen’s Park Savannah in the Carnival Sunday Dimanche Gras final.

Calypso tents are not just about good calypsoes but also about entertaining patrons who must sit through programmes lasting over four hours, so the band, emcees and chorus groups must also be equally on point. Of those I visited, the tents have scored an A grade in each department. 

For comic relief, I Love Everybody by Lord Have Mercy provides this in abundance, as does Mr Nature’s Old Age Doh Cause Dat. Whatever became of Rex West? I miss him as I miss the late Lord Fluke and Mighty Cypher. 

Calypso icon Bill Trotman was also excellent at creating much humour in the calypso tent. Skatie’s seven Revue tent mates are all strong, especially Alana Sinnette (Morons & Oxymorons), Michelle Henry (Ask Yuhself) and Chalkdust (When Trini Get Vex). 

Heather MacIntosh (By Other Men’s Faults), Gypsy (Too Many), Cro Cro (Advice to the Boss), Kizzie Ruiz (The Magic Magnet), Brian London (We Trinidad), Karene Asche (Bring Back de Love), Luta (Same Sex Marriages) and Singing Sandra (All For You) know the Skinner Park stage well and are each imbued with perfect articulation of song. 

Good performances are expected of them as well as from the Tobago singers who have previously traversed this road like Calypso Prince, Happy and Lesley Ann Ellis. One thing’s for certain and that is the judges are going to have a very tough job to erase 29 of the semi-finalists to chose just 11 to face defending monarch Roderick “Chuck” Gordon. 

The monarch for the past two years, Gordon is determined to score a hat-trick in 2016. Showtime tomorrow is noon and musical accompaniment will be by Errol Ince Music Makers.

Minister of Sport Darryl Smith heads a list of special guests for the eighth annual Carnival Sunday Football Reunion of Belmont Dynamos, Colts, Luton Town, Shamrock clubs. The lime is scheduled to begin at noon and is being held in the Queen’s Park Savannah (opposite Cadiz Road), Port-of-Spain. 

Organiser Jerry Brown told Pulse: “In this our eighth year we will honour those veterans who have passed. The idea of this reunion is in celebrating the 33 football clubs from the Belmont area. It is held at Carnival to facilitate the overseas domiciled greats who religiously return home for Carnival. 

Over the years we have identified and celebrated some of our former heroes amidst the football ole talk and revelry.” 

Some of the specially-invited guests include Port-of-Spain Mayor, Raymond Tim Kee, David Rudder, Willard “Relator” Harris, Willie Rodrigues, Marjorie John, Seadley Joseph, Randolph Price, Neville Baptiste, Richard Nieves and Anthony Skerrit.

CALYPSO FIESTA 2016

National Calypso Monarch 
(semi-finalists, in alphabetical order):

Alana Sinnette Khan—Morons & Oxymorons
Alicia Richards—Election Conduct
Brian London—We Trinidad
Devon Seale—Respect God’s Voice
Dianne Hendrickson—Lady Wonder
—Nation Building
Duanne O’Connor—Modern Nursery Rhymes
Eulith Woods—Macomere Fifi
—Before You Gone
Georgia McIntyre—The Messenger
—Just One Mile
Gilbert O’Connor—Happy—Don’t Blush
Hammond Bruce—Slick—Strange Fruits
Heather MacIntosh—By Other Men’s Faults
Helon Francis—Paradise
Henson Wright—Calypso Prince
—Baptist Donkey
Hollis Liverpool—Chalkdust
—When Trini Get Vex
Ife Alleyne—Brotherly Sisterly Love
Joanne Foster—Thou Art Loose
Joanne Rowley—Tigress—Fire and Jaws
Karen Eccles Thomas—Pull That Trigger
Karene Asche—Bring Back de Love
Kerine Williams—Fruits Aint Ripe Yet
Kizzie Ruiz—The Magic Magnet
Kurt Allen—The Last Bad John of Kaiso
—Pot of Gold
Lesley Ann Ellis—The Shoe That Were Mary’s 
Marsha Clifton—Lady Adanna—Murder a Day
Michael Legerton—Protector—Port-of-Pain
Michelle Henry—Ask Yuhself
Morel Peters—Luta—Same Sex Marriages
Myron Bruce—The Incredible Myron B
—Boat Ride
Sandra Des Vignes Millington—Singing Sandra—All for You
Sean Daniel—The Psalmist—Right Here
Selvon Noel—Mr Shak—Generation Next
Stacey Sobers Abraham—Stacey Sobers
—One Love
Stephen Marcelle—Shame on You
Steve Pascall—Ras Kommanda
—She Never Write Meh
Tameka Darius—Glory Hallelujah
Tammico Moore—Spicey—D’Champion
Victoria Cooper-Rahim—Queen Victoria
—The After Shock
Vivian Lockhart—Young Poser—In Good Hands
Weston Rawlins—Cro Cro—Advice to the Boss
Winston Peters—Gypsy—Too Many

In the wake of much criticism on social media about the paucity of soca music for 2016, the youth of the nation are not only shining but are restoring hope that traditional calypso and pan are in safe hands. This was evident at the just concluded finals of the National Junior Panorama and National Junior Calypso Monarch competitions.

Making an indelible impression on Sunday when the National Panorama finals were held at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port-of-Spain were the children of Goodwill Industries, though challenged. 

Playing Lisa Goodridge’s arrangement of Fay Ann Lyons’ Raze, and competing against nine other bands in the secondary schools category, not only did they touch hearts and make spirits soar but they placed seventh. 

Also making an impression was first-time entrant among the primary schools, Tacarigua Presbyterian, defeating 11 rivals to cop the first prize in a hotly contested final.

Playing Anders Kopel’s arrangement of the late Kitchener’s Guitar Pan, St Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph won the secondary schools category, ahead past winners like St Francois Girls’ College and Providence/QRC.

A number of the steelbands in the 21 and Under category would have qualified for Saturday’s senior National Panorama final. A hat-trick in a Panorama competition, that elusive feat attained only by bpTT Renegades, was achieved by the Charlotte Street junior band, playing Andrew Charles’ arrangement of Calypso Music. The band, as well as runners-up Invaders Youth and Revelation Institute for Performing Education, were at the top of their game and deserving of special mention.

Young people were also like beacons, brilliantly shining on stage as they competed in the finals of the National Junior Soca and Calypso Monarch competitions. Queen’s Royal College student Aaron Duncan, who has seemed to be unbeatable in calypso since he was much younger as a student at Newtown Boys’ RC School, was finally defeated by Holy Name Convent student Sharissa Camejo. 

A runner-up on many occasions, she did a remarkable performance of Our Blessed Land. 

Duncan did get some silverware this year when he retained the National Junior Soca Monarch title. He placed eighth in the monarch final.

In a number of areas, the material and quality of performances by our young people are more palatable and enjoyable than what is presented by the adults. Tuco and Pan Trinbago Inc need to become a lot more aggressive in having the Pan in School project legislated and consistently implemented, as well as having calypso as an integral element on the schools curriculum, something eight-time National Calypso Monarch Chalkdust (Dr Hollis Liverpool) has lobbied for for many years.