Ebuzz News
Archived: Trinis Head to Grenada This Weekend As Spice Mas Takes CentreStage
The past two years have seen phenomenal growth for Grenada’s Spice Mas with many making the move to discover the secret that lies within that island’s magical Jab Jab exploit, among other things. It’s not the only thing that’s been attractive about the Spice Mas experience though. ETCETERABUZZ has felt the sweetness of Grenada’s carnival, first hand, in previous years and what stands out, without a doubt, is the authenticity of the island’s festivities.
Last year, Machel Montano was spotted on the island even after his performance at White In The Moonlight. He partied with his dancers and friends at Bananas restaurant and bar, much to the enjoyment of onlookers.
This Friday, a delegation of Trinbagonians will be making their way over to the Spice Isle with one intention only and that is, to turn it up! It’s the third year running for Charlene Clarke and Anton Alleyne’s collaborative initiative, which sees their businesses, IMG Entertainment and Flavour De Mas, organize full packages for patrons desirous of that Grenada Spice Mas experience. A full team of media from Trinidad and Tobago is also making the trip, and of course, they’ll capture the essence of the festival from touch down to departure.
Spice Mas will feature a number of entertainment options for revelers, but a few things stand out for most. The Summer Crew Bikini Cruise is a must for many and then there’s White In The Moonlight which takes place in Grenada’s countryside, offering party lovers a taste of the rustic scenery. Last year, Machel Montano, Patrice Roberts and Farmer Nappy were there from T&T, however this year, Bunji, Fay-Ann and the Asylum Vikings will be touching down and we’re almost certain, it’ll be a wild experience.
Bunji Garlin and his wife Fay-Ann will be there, this year!
There’s soca monarch on Friday at the Grenada National Stadium and there’s also Panorama on the Saturday. The Grenada Jab Jab J’ouvert however is what we rate like nothing else! Authentic beyond your wildest imagination and vibe-filled, this element of that island’s carnival, is truly enjoyable- that’s of course, if you don’t mind getting down and dirty.
The Flavour De Mas and IMG Entertainment collaboration has been a great one for three years running.
On Monday night, there’s a parade of lights through the streets- where revelers chip along to their favorite soca music wearing costumes that really consist of lights, making it one of the most beautiful nighttime parades ever seen. The parade of the bands on Carnival Tuesday is not as massive as T&T’s version but much like other caribbean carnivals, a mixture of young and mature street revelers are seen in full costume, showing of the color and splendor of Caribbean mas!
For more information on the Spice Mas Experience package being offered by the Flavor De Mas crew and IMG Entertainment, you can CLICK HERE.
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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.
