How do we get our brilliant steelbands and their significant numbers of youthful players and supporters back on the road on Carnival days? The steelbands are a unifying and healing force and are capable of mitigating the divisiveness and socio-economic exclusivity with which the Carnival band scene is riddled. Carnival …
Read More »Vaneisa: Steelpan unity, disingenuous Gypsy and a Carnival of identity
Something of an epiphany came to me after the Panorama finals. Steelband arrangers genuinely seem to respect and admire each other. I couldn’t think of any instance where they have made derogatory remarks about their competitors. Apart from the swagger that is typical in a competitive environment, there is a …
Read More »Dem judges mudda can’t (be) serious? Live Wire reviews 2024 Calypso Monarch show
And the 2024 Calypso Monarch crown goes to: Argentina’s Lionel Messi! Who mother can’t believe that one, eh? Well, actually the TUCO judges had to confine their choice by geography—and, in particular, the 12 calypsonians who crossed the Queen’s Park Savannah stage with mic in hand last night. So, instead, …
Read More »Daly Bread: “Conglomerate mas” subduing our authentic Carnival experience
There is speculation how tomorrow and Tuesday’s Carnival will turn out, as it is taking place amid concern about the price of Carnival participation and the possible deterrent effect of rampant violent crime. At last, there is also intensity of concern about the changing character of the mas’. Social media …
Read More »Vaneisa: The season of everything—embracing the Carnival spirit
One thing this country is extraordinarily gifted at is its creative impulses, and Carnival is the premier showcase for it. The sound of steel pans was my first and abiding connection to Carnival. It is still the most powerful bond. Just as cricket fills me with a sense of West …
Read More »The Good, The Bad, the Destra and the “Double G” of Fete With the Saints
“[…] Patrice gave an excellent and emotional performance. From her outfit to her energy to her typically impeccable vocals, Patrice was the CIC fete of CIC fete. “[…] But somebody needs to pull Destra square and say: ‘yo… sing yuh bangers, wine yuh bam bam and get off the stage!’ …
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