Carib Scope

分类： entertainment

  • Jazz Vesper 2025 set to ring in Christmas spirit

    Jazz Vesper 2025 set to ring in Christmas spirit

    The Bethesda Methodist Congregation, in collaboration with Wesley High School, has unveiled plans for its third annual “Advent Jazz Vesper 2025,” creating anticipation for an evening of musical celebration embracing the Christmas spirit. Scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., the event will take place at the historic Bethesda Methodist Chapel on Cross Street in Roseau, Dominica.

    This year’s musical extravaganza promises a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring an impressive roster of performers including the acclaimed Sisserou Singers, solo artists Akim Ismael and Janae Jackson, vocalists Shanice, Shalina, Royette, and Starr, musician Phael Lander, performer Shadrach Ogbonna, the Grace Dancers, alongside the combined choral forces of the Bethesda Choir and Wesley High School Choir.

    Event organizers describe the program as an inspirational fusion of traditional Christmas melodies reimagined through jazz interpretations, creating a reflective atmosphere that captures the essential themes of hope, love, and enlightenment characteristic of the Advent season. The carefully curated performance aims to provide both entertainment and spiritual contemplation as attendees prepare for the holiday period.

    In keeping with the event’s charitable mission, all generated proceeds will be allocated to support educational initiatives and programs at Wesley High School. Ticket availability has been announced at two convenient locations: the Wesley High School administrative office and the Methodist Church Office, both situated in Roseau.

    The community is encouraged to reserve the date and participate in what promises to be a memorable celebration of musical excellence and seasonal joy, welcoming families and friends to share in this annual tradition that combines cultural performance with philanthropic purpose.

  • I And I Records Presents “No More Me, Me”  – A Timely Christmas Single By Enoch

    I And I Records Presents “No More Me, Me”  – A Timely Christmas Single By Enoch

    In a bold departure from traditional holiday music, independent label I And I Records has unveiled a provocative Christmas single titled “No More Me, Me” by artist Enoch. The release strategically counters the season’s characteristic commercialism with a message advocating for spiritual reflection and communal values.

    The composition emerges as a conscious alternative to conventional Christmas music, blending contemporary production with lyrical themes that critique materialistic tendencies surrounding the holiday period. Enoch’s musical approach incorporates elements of soul, gospel, and conscious hip-hop, creating a soundscape that simultaneously honors holiday traditions while subverting expectations.

    Industry analysts note the recording’s timing represents a significant strategic move within the independent music sector, offering consumers an antidote to the typically commercial nature of seasonal releases. The single’s thematic focus on selflessness and spiritual contemplation rather than gift-giving and consumption provides a distinctive narrative position within the holiday music market.

    Early critical reception has highlighted the track’s artistic courage in addressing the tension between modern holiday commercialization and the original spiritual significance of the Christmas season. Music critics have particularly praised Enoch’s authentic delivery and the production’s ability to balance festive atmosphere with thoughtful social commentary.

    The release demonstrates how independent artists and labels are increasingly using holiday themes to communicate substantive messages rather than simply pursuing commercial success. This approach reflects a growing trend within the music industry of leveraging seasonal platforms for artistic expression and social commentary.

  • Students Celebrate Youth Day at the Art & Cultural Village at Julees

    Students Celebrate Youth Day at the Art & Cultural Village at Julees

    The Art & Cultural Village at Julees became a dynamic hub of youthful creativity as over 80 students from seven Antiguan and Barbudan schools gathered for an immersive Youth Day celebration. This art-infused experience, designed to ignite creative expression and foster national pride, transformed the venue’s parking lot into a spectacular “Art Alley” adorned with vibrant chalk illustrations depicting cultural motifs.

    Coinciding strategically with World Illustration Day on November 28th, the event served as both a tribute to visual storytelling and a platform for emerging talent. Participants explored a comprehensive art exhibition featuring approximately 100 works by local and regional artists while simultaneously engaging in a competitive Youth Chalk Art Contest. Their collaborative creations formed an elaborate colorful “welcome mat” that will greet visitors throughout Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025.

    Guiding the young artists was Odessa Whitlock, an aspiring art educator from New Jersey who returned to her native Antigua specifically to contribute to Art Week. Having attended Kids Unlimited elementary school on the island, Whitlock emphasized the significance of mentorship in artistic development. “I am happy for the opportunity to help inspire the next generation of artists,” she noted, highlighting the importance of cultivating supportive environments where youth can explore and refine their creative gifts.

    The Art & Cultural Village stands as a cornerstone venue for the ongoing Art Week 2025, showcasing more than 25 visual artists and artisans alongside culinary creators presenting authentic Antiguan and Barbudan flavors. Beyond merely displaying talent, the Youth Day event powerfully demonstrated the Village’s broader mission: establishing an inclusive, dynamic space where color, culture, and creativity converge to inspire both present and future generations.

  • Yung Ras scores a double on Jamaica YouTube Trending chart

    Yung Ras scores a double on Jamaica YouTube Trending chart

    Emerging Jamaican recording artist Yung Ras has accomplished a significant milestone in his musical career by securing two simultaneous placements on YouTube’s Jamaica Trending chart. His tracks ‘Confident’ and ‘We Shall Rise’ both captured audience attention, demonstrating his growing influence in the digital music landscape.

    During the latest tracking period, ‘Confident’ ascended to the 11th position while ‘We Shall Rise’ made an impressive debut at number 19. Both productions were crafted by the renowned Butler Brothers production team. The viral momentum has been substantial, with ‘Confident’ accumulating over 700,000 views and ‘We Shall Rise’ gathering more than 331,000 views within just two weeks of its release.

    The artist expressed profound satisfaction with this career development, stating: ‘This achievement marks a pivotal moment in my professional journey. While it demonstrates there are greater heights to reach, I remain deeply grateful for this current accomplishment. Having two compositions trend simultaneously confirms that my artistic message resonates with listeners and validates my creative direction.’

    Yung Ras provided insight into the distinct inspirations behind both tracks. ‘Confident’ emerged from cherished memories of a meaningful relationship and shared experiences with a remarkable individual. Conversely, ‘We Shall Rise’ was conceived as a response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, expressing solidarity with affected Jamaicans and offering musical comfort during challenging times. The artist emphasized his commitment to using his platform to provide inspiration and support to communities facing adversity.

  • Masicka’s new EP Her Name is Love to be released on December 19

    Masicka’s new EP Her Name is Love to be released on December 19

    Jamaican dancehall sensation Masicka is preparing to unveil his latest musical offering, the EP ‘Her Name is Love,’ through Def Jam Recordings on December 19. This release marks the artist’s first project since his critically acclaimed 2023 album ‘Generation of Kings,’ which achieved notable commercial success by securing the number two position on Billboard’s Reggae Albums chart.

    The upcoming EP follows a pattern of strong chart performances for Masicka, whose 2021 album ‘438’ similarly debuted at number two on the same chart. However, his 2018 effort ‘Start From The Grung’ did not achieve similar chart recognition.

    Ahead of the full EP release, Masicka unveiled the lead single ‘Keys,’ which quickly captured audience attention by dominating both YouTube’s Trending chart and the Magnum Top Twenty charts. The track has demonstrated significant streaming momentum, accumulating over one million plays on Spotify within weeks of its release.

    Artistically, ‘Her Name is Love’ represents a thematic exploration of femininity, romantic desire, and interpersonal relationships. The project signals Masicka’s continued creative evolution within the dancehall genre and his growing international presence through partnership with the legendary Def Jam Recordings label.

  • Jimmy and Bob

    Jimmy and Bob

    In a poignant tribute to reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, who passed away on November 24 at age 81, new light emerges on his instrumental role in launching another legend’s career. The revelation comes as part of ‘Jimmy Cliff: Stories Of A Bongo Man,’ a seven-part retrospective series examining the singer-songwriter’s multifaceted legacy.

    The year was 1962 when a determined 17-year-old welder named Robert Nesta Marley entered Beverley’s Records in downtown Kingston. Much like Elvis Presley’s legendary visit to Sun Records nine years earlier, Marley arrived with dreams of recording his original compositions. Instead of encountering producer Leslie Kong directly, Marley was greeted by 18-year-old Jimmy Cliff—already an established star with his hit ‘Hurricane Hattie’ fueling Jamaica’s ska revolution.

    Cliff, in a December 2021 interview, vividly recalled the moment: ‘I hear a voice say, ‘dat sound good yuh nuh’. When I looked around, it was a little youth with his chest pushed out.’ Despite Kong’s dismissive assessment that Marley ‘cyaan sing, mon,’ Cliff recognized extraordinary talent in the young artist’s poetic sensibility and innate rhythm.

    Under Cliff’s advocacy, Kong eventually recorded three of Marley’s early ska compositions: ‘Judge Not,’ ‘One Cup of Coffee,’ and ‘Terror.’ Released in late 1962, ‘Judge Not’ became Marley’s debut single—a historic milestone made possible by Cliff’s intervention.

    The Marley family officially acknowledged this debt on their social media, posting: ‘Jimmy was an instrumental figure in Bob’s coming up, having brought him to producer Leslie Kong in 1962 to record his very first singles.’

    Though Marley’s tenure with Beverley’s Records was brief—he soon formed The Wailers with Peter Tosh and Bunny Livingston—the encounter marked a critical juncture in music history. Both Kong and Marley met premature ends: Kong dying of a heart attack at 37 in 1971, and Marley succumbing to cancer at 36 in 1981. Cliff’s recent passing at 81 closes a chapter, but his legacy as both a pioneering artist and crucial talent-spotter endures.

  • Bands heat up the Savannah at 2026 Panorama Single Pan finals

    Bands heat up the Savannah at 2026 Panorama Single Pan finals

    The Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain transformed into a pulsating epicenter of musical excellence on November 29th as steelpan orchestras converged for the highly anticipated 2026 Panorama Single Pan Finals. In a spectacular display of rhythmic mastery and cultural celebration, defending champions San Juan East Side Symphony successfully retained their crown, delivering a captivating arrangement of Machel Montano’s “Jumbie” that mesmerized judges and audience alike.

    The competition showcased extraordinary talent from across Trinidad and Tobago, with Diego Martin-based La Creole Pan Groove securing second position and San Juan Chord Masters Steel Orchestra claiming third place. The event featured breathtaking performances from numerous ensembles, each bringing unique interpretations of classic and contemporary Caribbean compositions.

    Hope Pan Groovers from Tobago energized the crowd with their rendition of “Like Ah Boss” by Machel Montano, arranged by Ojay Richards. Arima All Stars Steel Orchestra delivered a memorable performance of “Caribbean Connection” by Merchant, arranged by Gillian Tobias. LA 47 Steel Orchestra from La Brea captivated audiences with their arrangement of “Showdown” by Machel Montano with Xtatik ft Burning Flames, orchestrated by Shaquille Forbes.

    The evening witnessed several standout moments, including D’Original Woodbrook Modernaires Steel Orchestra’s performance of “Ah Cyah Wait” by Shurwayne Winchester, which featured the artist himself joining the ensemble onstage. Another highlight came when East Phonics Steel Orchestra from Valencia performed “Swing” accompanied by soca legend Austin “SuperBlue” Lyons.

    Photographer Lincoln Holder documented the electrifying atmosphere, capturing the vibrant energy and technical precision that defined this celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich musical heritage. The Panorama competition continues to serve as a premier platform for showcasing the evolution and enduring appeal of steelpan music, drawing participants and spectators from across the Caribbean region and beyond.

  • Christmas with the Ramsinghs at Naparima College

    Christmas with the Ramsinghs at Naparima College

    Theater enthusiasts are in for a nostalgic journey to 1960s Trinidad as Total Chaos Productions presents “Christmas with the Ramsinghs” at Naparima College Auditorium on December 6th. This theatrical experience promises to transport audiences to a bygone era of traditional Caribbean Christmas celebrations.

    Written, directed, and produced by Paul Bansilal, the production serves as an enhanced version of the popular “A Window to the Past” series, specifically tailored for Ramsinghs franchise enthusiasts. Set in 1961 within the authentic backdrop of Sea Village in southern Trinidad, the play meticulously recreates the challenges and charms of Christmas preparations during that period.

    The narrative captures the resourcefulness of the Ramsingh family as they navigate the limitations of their time, including the labor-intensive process of washing salt butter for baking and using sugarcane tops to beat common fowl eggs—a testament to traditional culinary methods before modern conveniences.

    A talented ensemble of twelve actors brings the production to life, featuring Simone Ramrattan in the lead role of Joyce, while Bansilal himself portrays the miserly character of Ramsingh. The cast includes Cindy Seepaul as Sita and Nazim Mohammed as Boysie, supported by accomplished performers Hubert Ramlal, Willard Gopaul, Pschie Haynes, Ian Wason, Anamarina Mohan, Lee Mohammed, Sabrina Ali, and Merlyn Jinkoo.

    Tickets for the 7 PM performance are available at multiple locations including Valani’s Drugs in San Fernando, Pharmacy Décor and Beyond in Palmiste, RIK Bookstore branches at Gulf City and Price Plaza, Mohammed’s Bookstore in Teddys Mall and Princes Town, Ramsingh’s Sports World in Couva, and Charran’s Bookstore in Chaguanas.

  • Simply Dad

    Simply Dad

    The global music community mourns the passing of Jamaican reggae pioneer James Chambers, internationally celebrated as Jimmy Cliff, who died on November 24, 2025, at age 81. While millions knew him as the legendary performer behind classics like “The Harder They Come,” his family remembers a profoundly different man—a devoted father who prioritized family above fame.

    Odessa Chambers, his eldest daughter, provides an intimate portrait of the superstar away from the spotlight. “It’s hard to really sum up who my father was in one word,” she reflected. “He was a visionary, an activist, a humanitarian, but most importantly to us children, he was our father.”

    Contrary to his public persona, Cliff maintained an intensely private family life. Odessa recalls childhood memories filled with beach outings, movie nights, and circus visits—ordinary moments made extraordinary by his presence. “Before social media,” she noted, “people would always see my father with his children. We were always around him.”

    Cliff embraced fatherhood as his ultimate role, blending wisdom with warmth. Odessa described him as “the ultimate teacher” who concluded even lighthearted conversations with meaningful lessons about identity and self-worth. “He always taught me to be authentically me,” she shared, highlighting his consistent message of cultural pride and personal integrity.

    The musician’s legacy extends beyond his groundbreaking catalog—he fathered 19 children who collectively embody his spirit and values. “We all have pieces of him, pieces of his personality,” Odessa observed, acknowledging how his influence will endure through his descendants.

    As the family prepares for public memorials, they remain protective of Cliff’s private nature. Some memories, Odessa confirmed, will remain exclusively within the family circle. Still, they appreciate the overwhelming global support, recognizing the unique balance Cliff maintained between his monumental career and his unwavering commitment to family.

  • Maps of the mind – Adeline Gregoire’s art explores Caribbean movement

    Maps of the mind – Adeline Gregoire’s art explores Caribbean movement

    Visual artist Adeline Gregoire has launched her debut solo exhibition, “Vanishing Lines/Lignes de Fuite,” at Loftt Gallery in Woodbrook, presenting an innovative collection that reimagines Caribbean landscapes through abstract cartography. The exhibition, which opened November 15 and runs through November 30, represents a significant departure for Gregoire, who has built her career primarily as a curator and interpreter of others’ work until now.

    Gregoire describes the collection as “different types of maps, cartographies of ‘the islands’” that explore profound questions of “history, movement and survival.” Rather than presenting literal geographical representations, her works serve as conceptual mappings that layer references to memory, migration, and colonial histories within abstracted Caribbean landscapes.

    The French portion of the exhibition’s title, “Lignes de Fuite,” translates to “lines of flight”—a concept Gregoire employs to examine both physical and metaphorical escape routes. She draws direct parallels between historical marronnage (the escape of enslaved people during colonial times) and contemporary experiences of migration, displacement, and the pursuit of self-determination.

    “So many of us are the direct descendants of our maroon ancestors,” Gregoire observes. “And so many of us are not free. We are the runaways of our present time.”

    Her artistic process involves innovative techniques including ripping materials, distressing paper, exposing works to the elements, compression, layering, erasing, and scraping—methods that physically echo the themes of erosion, memory, and transformation explored in the content. The resulting works feature richly textured, tactile surfaces that invite both visual and conceptual engagement.

    Notable pieces include “Somewhere in Between, Nou La,” which Gregoire describes as “a sort of three-dimensional landscape where you’re supposed to see mountains, coastline and colonial histories all at once,” and “Geographies,” which incorporates thread to suggest connections across spaces divided by man-made borders.

    The exhibition benefits from the curatorial expertise of Célia Potiron, a Martinique-born writer and curator based in Paris whose background in Caribbean literature and postcolonial research adds significant depth to the presentation. Gregoire emphasizes the value of this collaboration, noting that Potiron’s “disinterested perspective helped situate the exhibition within wider Caribbean and postcolonial contexts.”

    Visitor response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees spending extended periods engaging with individual works and participating in dialogues about their interpretations. Gregoire has enhanced the gallery experience with a curated soundtrack that adds another sensory layer to the exhibition.

    While the current exhibition concludes on November 30, Gregoire plans to continue developing these themes in her future work, describing this show as “a stage in an ongoing conversation” about Caribbean identity, history, and landscape.