In a heartfelt celebration of musical heritage and enduring friendship, veteran performer Selvon “Mistah Shak” Noel and steelpan virtuoso Darril “Harp” Edwards are set to reunite on December 7th for a special Christmas brunch event that promises to revive the authentic spirit of Trinidad and Tobago’s holiday traditions.
The KaiSoca-Parang Meets Steelpan Christmas Brunch, commencing at 10 AM at Atherly’s By the Park in San Fernando, represents more than mere performance—it symbolizes a cultural homecoming. For Shak, this collaboration carries profound personal significance, serving as both a tribute to decades of friendship and support for Edwards’ recent return to Trinidad after 18 years in Arkansas.
Edwards, an original member of the NLCB Fonclaire Steel Orchestra during the legendary Ken “Professor” Philmore’s Pan By Storm era, brings global experience as an internationally touring soloist. His homecoming provided the perfect catalyst for reconnecting with Trinidad’s music community and honoring those who shaped his career.
The choice of venue holds special historical resonance. Both artists regularly performed at the original Atherly’s as members of Hi-Styles band, with co-owner Paula Atherly having been instrumental in launching their international touring careers. “Paula was the one who put us on the path to do those tours,” Shak fondly recalls, noting their maintained friendship through the years.
Against Trinidad’s current economic challenges, organizers have deliberately kept the event accessible. “We really wanted to keep it at a price where as many people as possible could have access,” Shak emphasized, highlighting their commitment to community inclusivity.
The musical program will feature Edwards’ masterful steelpan repertoire alongside Shak’s unique fusion of calypso, soca, and parang—a blend that has earned him the moniker “Rasta Parrendero.” DJ Base 2 will complement the live performances with classic holiday spins, while Shak plans to delve into Trinidad’s musical archives with renditions of traditional Christmas calypsos from legends like Kitchener and Relator.
The event’s underlying theme centers on nostalgic reconnection with non-material Christmas traditions. “We’re trying to reintroduce that organic feeling we as Trinbagonians connect with Christmas,” Shak explains. “There’s a spirit, a vibe, a way we lime that transcends religious celebration.”
Audiences can anticipate Shak’s newest parang release, “It Right Dey,” which embodies the show’s message of returning to meaningful traditions that define Trinidad’s unique Christmas experience. While known for incorporating social commentary into his parang music—addressing topics from political encounters to cultural barriers—Shak now focuses on the season’s essence: “Good food, good company, music and memories.”
This gathering represents a cultural reawakening—not merely a concert or brunch, but a reaffirmation of identity and celebration through the authentic spirit of Trinidadian Christmas.