Ebuzz News
This Band Is Going Nine Years Strong. Their Vibe is Definitely IT!
Today marks a very special occasion. One of Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean’s well known music bands celebrates its ninth anniversary. The A Team Band, managed by Zarin Morean, with frontline acts, Eddie Charles, Kerlz and D Soca Trainer, have proven that they’re well able when it comes to representing the culture of Trinidad and Tobago, in any arena.
Morean says the journey that has led to this ninth year, has not been easy, and thanks the band’s musicians for their every effort, sleepless nights and their undying commitment to the goal.
The A Team Band has become somewhat of a staple to Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival landscape. In the past few years, the band has been chosen to support numerous artistes, among them, Patrice Roberts, Shal Marshall, Ricardo Drue, Lil Bitts and many others, at events locally, regionally and internationally. “There were times when we could have given up,” said Morean, recalling the early years of the band’s existence. The A Team Band’s musicians had been a part of another unit prior to the formation of A Team. “During their rehearsals with the Soca Unit band, back in the day at Question Mark Entertainment, the members all agreed that the band leader’s direction was not in line with what they wanted at that time,” explained Zarin. He said the members envisioned a more youthful, energetic vibe. “They decided to change their course and I was one of the people around them at that time. I was asked to manage the new band and I’ve been on board ever since,” he explained.
The A Team Band has performed across the world. One of the events Zarin says stands out was the band’s performance in Germany for the Bon Fire Festival. “It was a festival with all kinds of bands from all around the world and The A Team was called to be a part of it. It really was a proud moment to represent Trinidad and Tobago at that Bon Fire Festival in Germany,” he said.
Not As Simple As It Looks.
The A Team Band is, above all, a dedicated unit. Music Director, Miguel Charles and engineer, Brennon Virgil are credited by Zarin for their musical direction. “To get to where we are now, we’ve had to commit ourselves to very long hours- learning every song from the artistes and getting it to where the artistes themselves, want it to be,” he noted. He said a lot of tweaking takes place by Charles and Virgil. “They both have keen musical ears,” said Morean.
Excited for 2023
Carnival 2023 in Trinidad and Tobago, less than eight months away, The A Team Band is gearing up for the excitement. Morean says the focus at this time is to equip the band’s frontline artistes with their own music. “We’re working with Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop, Zan, Kitch (Kernal Roberts) and Chinese Laundry, to make this a reality,” he explained, also assuring that the band’s 2022 Engine Room production will also be expanded. Further to that, Zarin said the band’s members are looking forward to working alongside YUMA and Chocolate City for the next season. “We really need to bring back that live music element on the road. I’m seeing it happening and I think that’s a good thing.”
Cheers to the A Team Band! The journey has only just begun!
Ebuzz News
Jamaican Reggae Artiste, Jah Mason Loses His Son to Gun Violence in Jamaica.
A livestream on TikTok ended suddenly under tragic circumstances when the son of reggae artiste, Jah Mason was shot at point blank range. The victim, Jabari ‘Baba Skeng’ Johnson was reportedly approached and shot execution-style on Monday while live-streaming on TikTok near a shop along Red Hills Road in St. Andrew, Jamaica.
The St. Andrew North Police have launched an investigation into the incident. According to the Jamaica Observer, the young man’s father, Jah Mason has since confirmed the death of his son but at the time, was still coming to terms with the devastating news and preferred not to speak in detail.
According to reports, Johnson was broadcasting live on TikTok when he was approached by a masked individual dressed in black. The assailant shot him in the back of the head at close range, then continued firing after Johnson fell. The gunman then fled the scene.
Johnson’s death marks the fourth killing of a Jamaican TikTok personality in recent months.
Caribbean Buzz
Rising Superstar, Coutain Heads to Tobago for Easter Weekend, Rhthym and Soul Festival.
Like a breath of fresh air, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s very own rising stars has been added to the Easter cast of a major festival happening on the island. Coutain, a reserved Sangre Grande entertainer who’s been making waves, though humbly, is the one of the latest names plugged to entertain visitors to Tobago, and locals alike, at the Buccoo Seafood and Jazz event.
Coutain’s rise to prominence say him take Carnival 2025 by storm, performing at several major events and showcasing a unique essence that’s likable and palatable to all demographics. Songs like ‘Junction,’ ‘Artform’ ‘Jamtown’ with Tano, and ‘Carnival Darling’ with GBM Nutron, form part of the artiste’s enticing catalogue. An organic and true undercurrent that’s proven effective in marketing the artiste, now sees him stand alongside the likes of International superstars, Brian McKnight and Jon Secada in Tobago on April 19th.
The Tobago Rhythm and Soul Festival aims to deliver a showcase of rich, cultural engagement this Easter and despite an election shadow, all efforts have remained strong in promoting the importance of showcasing Tobago’s tourism product, to the world.
Last week, the announcement of Buju Banton’s sudden replacement as a result of illness within his camp, led to some concern, however with Stephen Marley now headlining the Easter Sunday, ‘Fusion’ concert event alongside the likes of Gramps Morgan, Wayne Wonder, Singing Melody, Kes The Band and others, the show, according to organizers, is gearing up to be a highlight of the calendar year in Tobago.
Coutain, along with former Road March King, Mical Teja and St. Lucia’s Teddyson John, will be among the star studded line-up this Easter weekend in a festival that’s being touted as transformative and energizing on Trinidad’s sister isle.
