Ebuzz News
Archived: Arturo Tappin Wows Tobago Jazz Experience
By the end of what was possibly an hour long performance by acclaimed Barbados born saxophonist, Arturo Tappin, there was no question that Tobago had made the best possible choice for what was the first event on the 2013 Tobago Jazz Experience calendar.
Arturo Tappin stands atop a chair in the crowd with his Saxophone.
Tappin, a world renowned musician, brought a savvy sense of musical style and flair to Speyside- something that was welcomed by every patron no doubt. Stylishly dressed in a pink shirt and white trousers with his long Caribbean dreadlocks almost to the ground, Tappin stood like a tower of musical bliss atop the stage at the Speyside Recreation Grounds, belting out notes from his saxophone which lingered in the air and filled the field with a sense of calm that was savored from start to finish. He performed a number of musical selections, among them Bunji Garlin’s Differentology, Mr. Vegas’ Bruk It Out, Psy’s Gangam Style and certainly other traditional songs that were truly enjoyed by the crowd. He was even moved to step off the stage for a bit and climbing atop a chair in the crowd, Tappin danced and blew his saxaphone with vigor and sweetness.
The Tobago Jazz experience will continue tonight at the Signal Hill Recreation Grounds with acts like Positive, Isaac Blackman, Kimba Sorzano, J-Major, Samuel Duncan and Stephanie Winchester among others. Judging from the representation at the free event in Speyside last evening, we at ETCETERABUZZ.COM are certainly expecting a strong turnout in Signal Hill later today and while Tappin won’t be on the cast again this evening, he’ll be showing off his skill on the sax again on April 27th when he makes an appearance at Mt. Irvine Bay for Jazz on the Beach.
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Caribbean Buzz
Destra Delivers Powerfully at Reflections.
“If this sharing that I’m doing touches anyone, I’m truly grateful. None of us are perfect. Some days you’ll feel good, some days you won’t, but it’s all part of the journey. Sometimes what you’re looking for is right on the horizon, and the moment you give up, you miss it. If my testimony makes anyone feel something, then my work here is done.” – DESTRA GARCIA
Trinidad and Tobago received a musical showcase of spiritual awakening yet again this past Saturday, at Destra’s ‘Reflections: Sound. Spirit. Surrender.” The event took place at Queen’s Hall, St. Ann’s and proved to be a truly inspiring and uplifting musical experience.
From the onset, the show set a standard that fans of good music with powerful lyrics, would rave about for weeks. David Rudder – a cultural icon of Calypso music out of Trinidad and Tobago, welcomed the audience as he hit the stage first delivering the very fitting, ‘High Mas.’ It was a powerful blessing no doubt – something that would lead into a seamless spiritual production. He was subsequently joined on stage by Destra, something that created a full-circle moment that drew immediate emotion from the audience.
Known for her unmistakeable vocal ability, Destra took her audience on a carefully curated musical journey, opening her set with Free Again before transitioning into slowed-down, soul-stirring renditions of some of her most beloved songs, including Love Somebody and Fly and with each performance, she revealed a different layer of her artistry, offering vulnerability, reflection, and strength.
One of the night’s most touching highlights came as Garcia shared the stage with her daughter, Xaiya, for a heartfelt duet of The Prayer. Beginning at the piano, Xaiya gently set the tone before joining her mother in song, creating an intimate moment that resonated deeply with the audience.
The production, which was creatively directed by Zara Bartels and Isoke Edwards, also showcased the incredible talent of father and son pan duo Martin and De’jean Cain as well as the Maria Regina Grade School and St. Joseph’s Convent Port- of- Spain choirs, whose vibrant and polished performances brought a refreshing, youthful energy to the stage. Gospel artiste, Nisa joined Garcia for a powerful duet of Bridge Over Troubled Water. She also performed her original composition Make Me Over, adding another layer of spiritual depth to the evening.
As the show built toward its finale, Garcia delivered a commanding rendition of Ella Andall’s Bring Down the Power, followed by classic hymns including A Little More Oil in My Lamp. This climactic segment was elevated by the presence of traditional belle dancers and African drummers, creating a rich, cultural fusion that brought the audience to its feet. Beyond the performances, the overall production, brought to life through Bridgette Wilson’s choreography and Atiba Borde’s costuming, stood out for its seamless execution, immersive ambience, and thoughtful storytelling, reinforcing Reflections as more than just a concert, but a transformative experience.
Reflections certainly delivered a powerful blend of music, filled with deep messages and meaning. In what is a very spiritual season, Destra, through the delivery of ‘Reflections,’ has carved out a space for inspiration and connection within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape – something that many would agree, is a necessity more than an option.