Ebuzz News
Archived: RECAP: Kes The Band Delivers In Fine Fashion
Last Tuesday, Kes the Band chronicled their 4th year of its Tuesday on the Rocks event. One of the most highly anticipated events during the Carnival week, the O2 Park saw scores of patrons ready to support Kes the band’s ‘Journey through the Music”. Ebuzztt was there for the action and recaps some of the highlights of the signature event.
- Well organized.
Kees was amazing as usual at Tuesday on the Rocks 2017.
PHOTO CREDIT: Teeography.
Not that its any surprise but Kes had their Ts crossed this year. Notwithstanding a fairly thick crowd, there were no unnecessarily long lines to enter, secured parking was made available at the Army base and shuttles for those who didn’t want to strut the short distance to the venue. There was one main entrance irrespective of the ticket you were holding so there was no confusion as to where to line up. Access to food and drinks were within reach, photo booths to document your attendance, a make-up booth was accessible for a nice price if you were into that kind of thing and bathroom facilities were clean and outfitted with air conditioning. The show started after 8pm with Farmer Nappy and De Red Boyz kicking things off but Kes The Band took full flight at 10pm.
- Girls Girls Girls!
The ladies love ’em some Kees! They came out in their numbers last Tuesday. Some wore heels, some wore flats, some donned shorts and others flowy skirts and rompers but no one was afraid to wine down low or scream to the top of their lungs when the man of the moment graced the stage. In between the large girl groups that attended, it appeared to be well suited for lovers as well as many couples were spotted.
- Bajan Invasion
Bajan Soca superstars Edwin Yearwood, Alison Hinds and Rupee were all incredible. They not only made Barbados proud but the entire Caribbean with their raw talent and powerful stage presence delivering hit after hit! Alison, the epitome of sexual class, had all eyes on her as she delivered some of her popular tracks. Rupee maintained his charm and easily captivated the crowd with his old hits and 2016/2017 hits ‘Tipsy’ and “I’ll be okay”. The trio professed their love for Trinidad and Tobago countlessly during their performances, calling it their second home, and it’s safe to say by the crowd’s reception, the feeling was mutual!
- Vice Versa Love from Barrington Levy, Kes and patrons.
Shifting gears a bit was the introduction of a legend to the Kes The Band stage. Jamaican reggae hit maker, Barrington Levy was part and parcel of the show and based on what we witnessed, it’s safe to say, he’s like fine wine, getting better with age. The reggae superstar had everyone singing word for word as he walked on to the stage casually dressed, with a portable microphone in tow giving him the freedom to easily engage the crowd and move about the stage. Singing mostly acapella, supported by the vocals of the thousands gathered, Levy sang some of his favourite hits like “Too Experienced”, “Here I Come”, “Vice Versa Love”, “Everybody Must Work” and “Black Roses”! Maintaining his presence and showcasing his versatility with different genres of music, Kes also joined Mr. Levy on stage for some collaborations admonishing how much of an inspiration Levy had on him musically growing up. Undoubtedly, Barrington Levy was definitely one of the biggest highlights of the night and further exciting fans announcing that his new album would be dropping soon.
- Music was the mission
Barrington Levy is getting better with age.
PHOTO CREDIT: Teeography.
The event was not restricted to one genre of music as Kees also performed some of his own island pop and reggae material. He definitely seemed humbled by his fans’ support and constantly maintained engagement with the patrons, even those on top in the VIP area. He echoed the sentiments of his fellow compadre in the business, Machel Montano and others, to spread and promote love. Kees had his uncut moments, creating intimate moments with his fans singing some of his older recordings like ‘Fighter”.
- An Unexpected Guest
Ravi B can mash up any fete whether or not he’s scheduled to be there. To the surprise of many, Ravi B was introduced and immediately poured his energy over the crowd. They lapped it all up. The Chutney Soca Monarch Champ and fellow Digicel endorsee to Kees, was not scheduled to performed but maintained that he had to come out and support his brother. MX Prime & The Ultimate Rejects were exceptional as usual and veteran Ronnie McIntosh and Voice were well received by the patrons as well. With Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica well represented, the Caribbean connection was strongly felt. Team Kes executed well because at the end, it’s safe to say that their objective ‘Mission Through Music’ was realized.
WRITER: @Candiebuzz on Instagram.
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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.
