“Gimme that good reggae music.” Seems like everywhere you turn in Trinidad these days, that’s the cry. There’s a sudden re-emergence of the genre that gave rise to phenomenal acts like Jamaica’s Richie Spice, Sizzla Kalonji, Luciano, Cocoa Tea, Determine, Anthony B, Jah Cure and countless others on that island and then of course, acts like Marlon Asher, Jamelody, Isasha and Million Voice, King David and the many other local reggae acts who erupted onto the scene a few years ago in T&T.
Marlon Asher was present at Reggae on the Avenue on Sunday.
On Sunday, ETCETERABUZZ was privy to the first Reggae Sunday on the Avenue, hosted at Coco Lounge on the strip that has become the hottest spot in Trinidad and Tobago in recent years. In the past couple of weeks however, with a number of recreational bars and lounges being forced to shut their doors as a result of legal matters, the Avenue had been relatively quiet. Last night things seemed a little different however. Reggae on The Avenue – now a Sunday night feature on the Trini event calendar launched to a nice enough crowd who heard styles from reggae crooners of the past and present. Amid the circle of patrons seen on the dance floor were ‘Ganja Farmer’ singer, Marlon Asher who recently returned to local shores from shows abroad, Isasha, King David and even Soca and calypso artiste, Chucky- who we spotted in the company of a pretty little lady.
The new Sunday hot spot is gearing up to re-create an ambiance that many have missed and according to organisers, a number of reggae acts will make appearances in the weeks ahead. While there wasn’t a massive outpouring on launch night, everyone who made it out was seen dancing and truly enjoying the ‘reggaematical’ vibes. Radio presenter and brother to reggae artistes, Isasha and Million Voice- Ringo Star sent the crowd wild with excitement as together with DJ Junior out of the Delegate Sounds, they took patrons on a journey down memory lane with reggae love rockers, and brought them back to today with some dancehall favorites. The night was however a predominantly reggae filled occasion.
The weekend ahead is likely to be an attractive one for reggae lovers. A concert dubbed, Reggae on the Bay, being held at the O2 Park in Chaguaramas will welcome Cocoa Tea, Beres Hammond and Taurus Riley. That’s a big one! The show however kicks off in the early hours of the afternoon and ends by midnight so Reggae on the Avenue is likely to be the best possible after party option on Sunday!
Urban Christian artiste JrDynamite is making a bold declaration of faith with the release of his latest single, “Big and Bold”, a powerful anthem encouraging believers to stand confidently for Christ in an increasingly challenging world.
Recorded on the legendary Hill & Gully Riddim, produced by renowned Jamaican producer Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, the track fuses infectious Caribbean rhythms with a fearless message of conviction, purpose, and unwavering faith.
“Big and Bold” challenges listeners to reject fear, compromise, and silence, while embracing their God-given identity and calling. Through energetic delivery, commanding lyrics, and a memorable hook, JrDynamite reminds believers that faith was never meant to be hidden.
“This song is about being unashamed of who you are in Christ,” says JrDynamite. “In a world where people are constantly pressured to fit in, I wanted to create a song that encourages believers to stand out, stand firm, and represent Jesus with confidence.”
The release arrives at a time when many Christians are navigating cultural pressures and societal expectations. “Big and Bold” serves as both a rallying cry and a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that bold faith can inspire transformation in others.
Known for blending authentic Caribbean sounds with impactful gospel messages, JrDynamite continues to carve out a unique space within the gospel and dancehall landscape. His growing catalogue has consistently showcased his lyrical versatility, energetic performances, and commitment to spreading the Gospel through music.
With the backing of the iconic Hill & Gully Riddim and a message that resonates far beyond the dancefloor, “Big and Bold” is poised to become another standout addition to JrDynamite’s growing catalogue of faith-driven anthems.
With less than a month to go before Kanvas Koncert: Unplugged returns to Sound Forge, Trinidad and Tobago rising sensation, Coutain is giving audiences their first taste of what’s to come with the release of his latest single, Suga Dumplin.
Created alongside producer and longtime collaborator Michael “Tano” Montano, the track explores vulnerability, love and surrender, while offering a glimpse into the evolving sound behind Coutain’s most intimate live experience to date.
Denzil Coutain, professionally known as Coutain.
Coming out of the 2026 Carnival season, Coutain found himself wrestling with writer’s block. After stepping away to reset and recharge, he eventually reconnected with Montano. It was during those early sessions that the foundations of Suga Dumplin began to take shape — a record that explores vulnerability, love and what it takes to make a “badman” fall in love.
Over the years, the two artists have developed a collaborative process rooted in trust, honesty and respect. “We have a natural chemistry,” said Coutain. “When we are creating, we know when a song just isn’t there yet. We leave ego at the door, accept constructive criticism and keep refining until it feels right. We know that if we don’t like it, the people won’t like it either.”
Taking Calypso Forward
Producer Michael “Tano” Montano sees Suga Dumplin as part of a broader effort to carry the spirit of Calypso into a new era, drawing on the music they grew up listening to while making it resonate with younger audiences. “I feel like I’ve been hearing those songs my whole life,” said Montano. “We know what those songs can do and what they’ve done. The task now is making them relatable to younger people in a tasteful way.”
Coutain agrees. “The sound that is being produced now is only an evolution of what has already been heard,” he explained. “This sound is modern yet holds the soul of the old. This sound is new. This sound is what will make people not only fall in love, but dance again.”
That same artistic philosophy will shape Kanvas Koncert: Unplugged, which returns to Sound Forge on Sunday June 28 from 4:00 p.m. Now in its fourth staging following three consecutive sold-out editions, Kanvas has built a reputation for bringing people closer to the music through live performance, storytelling and connection. This year’s show will also feature a lineup of local and regional artists, with additional acts set to be revealed in the lead-up to the event.
Stripped -Back.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the Unplugged theme, Coutain said he has become increasingly drawn to stripped-back performances and reconnecting with the music in a deeper way.“I feel like we don’t always take the time to appreciate the finer details that really make up life. Sometimes less is more and sometimes subtlety speaks volumes,” he said. “This show is about growth, not just within me and my team, but hopefully within the Kommunity as well. After leaving Sound Forge, you should feel like you’ve just attended a family function, connected through music, energy and love.”
Tickets for Kanvas are available via Island E-Tickets.com and at select outlets nationwide, including King Strip Restaurant and New Image Barber Shop (East); 5AM Coffee Shop and The Lost Tribe (West); DFlare Fashions and Lazy Lizard Lounge (Central); Lash’d by Lys and Immersive Tech (South); and Oogy Wawa (Tobago).
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