Soca News Magazine - August 2020

SOCANEWS F ree

i135/ aug 2020 ISSN 1464-7087

socanews.com

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GET LISTED: If you’re a carnival organiser, promoter, mas band, steelband, soca sound, community group or other participant who’s feeling left out because we didn’t mention your event, or if you’d like to advertise in the magazine or online, the remedy is in your hands. Get in touch! Give us a call on 0333 012 4643.

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CONTENTS AUGUST 2020 | ISSUE 135

REGULAR

SOCA PEOPLE

FEATURES

07 NEWS

16 BIG Z

20 Dominica's Bouyon

22 MUSIC

Top 15 Soca Tracks Albums

Radio Shows + Streams

28 EVENTS

Your physical/virtual guide to whats happening where and when

TRAVEL 32 Saint Lucia 44 Grenada

Zinaida make a big

splash in the soca industry

18 JUS D

Therapy

38 So Melissa

Simon-Hartman

42 Trinidad & Tobago

celebrates 58 years of indepenedence

FEATURE 26 NOTTING HILL

CARNIVAL 2020

FOOD

30 VOX POP

DRINK

From Street to Screen

34 Chicken Pelau recipe 36 Reggae Rum Punch SN AUG 2020 5

EDITORS

A

LETTER

round this time I would normally be urging you to find a band and play ah mas, as we embark on the downhill journey towards the August Bank Holiday weekend that heralds Notting Hill Carnival.

But of course, as we all know, the global pandemic that is COVID-19 has ensured that carnivals and festivals as we have always known them remain closed for business for the foreseeable future.

One can only hope that by this time next year some progress will have been made in finding a way to either beat or live with the virus, that has brought us back to some sort of normality – and I’m talking about the old normality, not a new one. What that may look like is anyone’s guess, but we dream of it involving bands, beads and bacchanal!

In the meantime, all is not lost. There are virtual party streams taking place all over the internet – sometimes at the same time (why are we still throwing parties on the same day, even when they’re virtual?!)

Notting Hill Carnival has promised us a virtual carnival like no other, and we patiently await the outcome.

We hope you all stay safe. Please follow the government guidelines by washing your hands regularly, and wearing a face-covering over your nose and mouth when in enclosed public spaces. Make Space: stay at least a metre away from people not from your household, and if you are feeling unwell, get a test and do not leave home for at least 10 days.

COVER IMAGE -

MASQUERADER

ABEO JACKSON BAND

LOST TRIBE PHOTOGRAPHER

DILLON DE SHONG

Until the next time...

Yours in Soca Joseph Charles EDITOR PUBLISHER & EDITOR Joseph Charles jc@socanews.com CREATIVE Joseph Charles SUB EDITOR Katie Segal katie@socanews.com CONSULTING EDITOR Stephen Spark stephen@socanews.com

SALES & MARKETING Rodney Wilson rodney@socanews.com sales@socanews.com

PUBLISHED BY Soca News Ltd 86-90 Paul Street London, EC2A 4ND

WORDS Dunstan Creavalle, Katie Segal, Mia Cadette, Joseph Charles, Robert Deschamps & Stephen Spark, Dr. Violet Cuffy

TELEPHONE + 44 (0) 333 012 4643

PICTURES Grenada Tourism Authority, Robert Deschamps, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, Stephen Spark

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The views expressed in Soca News are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. All material contained within this publication is the copyright of Soca News. No material, written or photographic may be reproduced in any way without the written permission of the publisher. No liability will be accepted for any errors which may occur within the magazine. © 2020 Soca News. All rights reserved.

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NEWS

A NEW DIRECTION FOR KES THE BAND

THE BAND, NOW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT, PREPARES TO RELEASE A LIVE ALBUM AND TO EXPAND THEIR PRESENCE GLOBALLY

K

WORDS | MIA CADETTE

es The Band, best known for songs such as Wotless, Hello, Savannah Grass and Stage Gone Bad (with Iwer George), have recently undergone some exciting changes. Aiming to expand their international presence, they have signed with management duo Damon Degraff and Evan Vogel, who are well known in the industry for their years of experience in launching global artists and brands using unorthodox approaches.

Degraff and Vogel plan to bring the band’s soca sounds into mainstream culture - bringing joy to all listeners. “With the world going through so many challenges, we believe Kes’ music can bring about more unity and positive energy. We are honoured to be a part of this next chapter,” say the team. Lead singer Kes outlined the importance of working with a new team who, “share our vision”.

The first step in this journey for Kes The Band

is the release of their first live studio album, We Home, in a partnership with Ineffable Records as the imprint's first ever soca release. This album has been borne out of this extraordinary situation that has forced all of us to stop and think about things in a different light. This period has given many of us the time to innovate, be different, and be home… and through this the band has captured soca music in 2020, along with “calypso-inspired melodies, rock riffs and island beats, with hints of reggae”.

Kes said, “We miss the energy we get from you when we're on stage and wanted to share the vibes we feel when we're performing. We hope this album captures that feeling, and gives us all something to look forward to when we could jam once more.”

We Home will be available to purchase from various digital platforms, from Friday 28 August 2020.

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NEWS

NAILAH ENTERS THE ACADEMY

T

his year is proving to be another successful one for soca superstar Nailah Blackman, as she's invited to become a member of the Recording Academy’s ‘Class of 2020’. The Recording Academy, which organises the annual Grammy Awards, announced that she is one of the 2,300 musicians, singers, producers and engineers from across the world being invited into the organisation this year.

Once a member, she will be eligible to vote in next year’s Grammy awards, scheduled for January 31, 2021, and to submit her work for consideration.

Another amongst the 2020 invitees is rapper and Grammy winner Lil Nas X. The 2020 Class is one of the Recording Academy’s most diverse, made up of 48% male and 51% female invitees; 51% are under the age of 39.

In a statement on the academy’s website, Chairman and Interim President/CEO Harvey Mason Jr said, “The diverse talents of our music people have never been more relevant and important. We’re constantly reminded of the powerful role music can play in bringing us together, and we’re so excited for our new members to join us on this journey as we strive to give back to music as much as it gives to us."

Blackman, granddaughter of soca creator Ras Shorty I, expressed her excitement and gratitude on social media. RD 8 SN AUG 2020

ARTS OF CONFLICT - THE DISCOURSE OF NOTTING HILL

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ondon’s Notting Hill Carnival is coming under increasing pressure and attacks from the British press, politicians, police and local residents who consider it an event of conflict.

That was the picture decades ago – and little has changed. This film is the story of that controversial event, from its inception after the 1950s London race riots to its present-day controversies, where it’s still perceived as a carnival of violence.

Focusing on its arts and the darker past from which Notting Hill Carnival emerged, Arts of Conflict seeks to open up a conversation about Carnival’s significance and its origins.

Arts of Conflict may be viewed on Amazon Prime at https://amzn.to/2PnE9m4

NEWS

BUNJI GARLIN AND FAY-ANN LYONS’ FILM DEBUT

B

unji Garlin and Fay-Ann Lyons-Alverez made the leap from stage to silver screen on July 31, which saw their their debut appearance in the film Tijuana Jackson: Purpose Over Prison, a spin-off from Trini-American actor Romany Malco’s series Prison Logic. The movie tells the story of Tijuana Jackson’s quest to become a world-renowned motivational speaker.

Malco, who has had roles in hit movies and TV shows such as 40-year-Old Virgin and Weeds, plays the title character. Also appearing are actor Regina Hall and reality star Tami Roman. Bunji plays the part of Upgrade, Tijuana Jackson’s best friend, whilst Fay-Ann portrays a prison guard working in an inmate reform program.

The 'First Couple of Soca' filmed their roles in March 2017, after Malco reached out to them. Bunji reflected on his time on set in an Instagram post: “@fayannlyons and I had fun with the team out in LA for this one and warning this movie IS NOT FAMILY friendly LOLOL. Plus the straight Trini cussing is the spice Lololol. Have fun and be safe. Much love and thanks brother Romany for having us and letting the Trini side shine bright.”

Tijuana Jackson: Purpose Over Prison may be streamed from various platforms, including iTunes, Amazon and Google Play. RD

CARNIVAL IN A BOX

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arnival in a Box is a new, free online website showcasing Carnival arts and culture - in this year when carnivals everywhere have been cancelled. With so many elements of our lives being delivered in cardboard boxes, the project’s creators began to wonder what might be delivered in a box of Carnival.

The team are collecting videos from carnival artists and bands to produce an online parade and virtual gala, adding activities that will bring Carnival home.

Also included are music, animation and exciting, experimental, AR (augmented reality).

Alongside the #NHCathome online Notting Hill Carnival, they’re helping to keep the Spirit of Carnival alive and bringing Carnival home this summer. You even have the opportunity to take part; if you would like to send them a video showcasing your work, please email: contact@ carnivalinabox.co.uk SN AUG 2020 9

NEWS

ANGOSTURA® LAUNCHES COCOA BITTERS

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ngostura’s latest product, ANGOSTURA® Cocoa Bitters, was launched on 29 July in Port of Spain, Trinidad, after years of continuous research and trials. The ANGOSTURA® team, led by Master Blender Carol Homer-Caesar, created the perfect recipe for this latest product using T&T’s indigenous and Trinitario cocoa. Ms. Homer-Caesar said, “We believe our locally cultivated Trinitario cocoa delivers a far superior flavour profile to other geographic regions. Our hope is that our new, expertly crafted, cocoa bitters inspires people to create their own signature cocktail and food recipes to savour and enjoy with family and friends.”

The new product is described as containing top notes of rich, floral and nutty cocoa, combined with an intoxicating infusion of aromatic botanicals and crafted to inspire creativity and experimentation with flavour combinations. It can be used to remix classic cocktails, put a luxurious spin on a main dish or augment a dessert. The bitters pairs perfectly with sweet vermouth or aged spirits like whiskey, rum, cognac and tequila, whilst bringing new layers of depth and complexity to cocktails such as the classic espresso martini.

ANGOSTURA® cocoa bitters can innovate your creations.

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This timeless brand, which has been flavouring the world for 196 years, has seized an opportunity to inspire mixologists, drinks enthusiasts and home chefs, hoping to ignite their creativity and address an appetite for authenticity and natural ingredients.

ANGOSTURA® cocoa bitters will be exported to several markets, including the UK and Europe.

It will also be sold in the USA, where in the introductory phase it will be placed in over 1,200 Walmart stores. DC

FOR MORE NEWS

SOCANEWS.COM/NEWS TO SUBMIT A STORY NEWS@SOCANEWS.COM

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NEWS

EQUIANO-THE WORLD’S FIRST AFRICAN AND CARIBBEAN RUM

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lobal Rum Ambassador, Ian Burrell, and Foursquare’s Richard Seale are on a mission to redefine a four-centuryold industry with unique blends of rum from around the world; Seale is one of the co-creators of Equiano. Described as perfect for mixing, sipping, and savouring, on the nose it delivers tropical warmth alongside notes of dried fruits, such as raisins, combined with sweet toffee, butterscotch, and caramel. Equiano finishes on a medium sweet note with touches of oak, anise, sweet pepper and a hint of bitter orange peel.

Olaudah Equiano was an African entrepreneur, author and abolitionist who was enslaved in Africa, sent to the Caribbean, then sold into England; he eventually bought his freedom by saving the profit he’d made from selling rum. His 1789 autobiography was one of the earliest books published by a Black African writer, and a bestseller in the UK. More importantly, his story contributed to the abolition of slavery.

Of the eponymous rum, Burrell said, “Equiano is an exclusive rum uniquely created by blending two cultures. We take Cognac cask aged rums from Africa and send them to Barbados to be blended 12 SN AUG 2020

with local aged rums. Once bottled, the final product is sent to the UK. This is a long journey, but an important one as it echoes the path of our namesake, Equiano; this is why we celebrate his name with our rum. This is also why we are donating 5% of our profits to ground level charities that fight for freedom and equality.”

Equiano is a limited batch blend from one of the best emerging distilleries in the world, Gray’s in Mauritius, and the world-renowned Barbadian distillery Foursquare. Bringing these two rum purists together means that Equiano is 100% natural rum, with no spices, colourants, additives or added sugar.

Completely uncompromised, all the rich and deep flavours come from the ex-Cognac and exBourbon casks in which the rum tropically matures, creating an exquisite, modern and matured spirit that is totally unique.

Ian Burrell described it as, “An unadulterated rum that is best appreciated the way that YOU like to drink your spirits. Neat, on the rocks, with your favourite mixer or in a cocktail, this is a rum that you'll discover, enjoy and then share.”

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NEWS

FROM CROWN TO COURT

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ee-Ann Kentish-Rogers, despite her mere 27 years, already has a remarkable trail of successes behind her - across multiple arenas. A former winner of Miss Universe GB, model and track athlete, this young woman recently qualified as a lawyer before diving into Anguillan politics.

In 2018, Kentish-Rogers was crowned Miss Universe GB, making her the first Black winner of the pageant since it began in 1952. Aware of the scale of this achievement, she told Newsbeat at the time: “Now that I’ve won the pageant, I’ve come to the realisation that I’ve not only won the pageant as Dee-Ann, but as a black woman.”

Kentish-Rogers entered this British beauty competition as a dark-skinned woman with dreadlocks. In response to being asked whether she would consider taking down or straightening her hair for the competition, to avoid association with negative connotations attached to having dreadlocks, she refused, saying, “I felt it was very important for me to represent my cultural identity and to represent myself on this platform.” As a result of her strength in this, Kentish-Rogers said that she received several messages after the pageant from others with locs, saying that her win feels like “a win for them”.

Subsequently, Kentish-Rogers qualified as a barrister, before standing for election in Anguilla 14 SN AUG 2020

for the Anguilla Progressive Movement (APM). She defeated Victor Banks, the long-standing political leader of Anguilla United Front (AUF), in the Valley South constituency and, after the APM won the general election in June 2020, she became the Honourable Minister of Social Development and Education. MC

SMALL AXE

S

mall Axe, an anthology series developed

by Oscar-winning writer and director Steve McQueen, will be released later this year; the first episode is in remembrance of the 1970 Mangrove March. Set in the late 1960s to the mid 1980s, Small Axe, which consists of five hour-long stories, focuses on the profound experiences of London’s Caribbean community - heavily defined as they were by the need for constant resilience amidst experiences of racist opposition and discrimination.

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SOCA

PEOPLE

VARIOUS ARTISTS

STREAM | DOWNLOAD

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BIG Z

ZINAIDA MAKES A BIG SPLASH IN THE SOCA INDUSTRY WORDS | ROBERT DESCHAMPS

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espite the cancellation of the Saint Lucia 2020 carnival season, the everenterprising Zinaida McNamaraPhillip has added the title of Executive Producer to her list of business ventures, with her involvement in the production of the Big Mood Riddim. The riddim, which was released in June and features Shemmy J, Jadel, V'ghn, Skinny Fabulous and Hollywood HP, was built by Miguel Joseph of Vibez Productionz.

McNamara-Phillip already has a full plate, which includes her law practice, carnival band and family.

However, she said that this year presented a “unique opportunity” to get involved in the family business of which her husband, International Stephen, is at the forefront.

“We were home in the quarantine and Stephen was playing a lot of the beats he would have received from various producers, and the Big Mood Riddim was one that I fell in love with from the beginning. I asked him about it, and he mentioned that it was a Lucian producer that built it. Once I heard that, I became very interested,” she explained to Soca News.

After signing on as Executive Producer, the quest to find artists to record tracks began. McNamaraPhillip was in a strong position, with connections to the soca music scene as well as her husband’s credits on smash hits such as Famalay and Conch Shell. However, she revealed that some artists who had agreed to record demos were forced to pull out due to other commitments.

Fortunately, others whom she approached, such as Skinny Fabulous, who she describes as ‘family’, jumped at the opportunity. “When it came to Skinny, he was available and he enjoyed it after we sent him the riddim,” she said. “V’gn, who my husband manages; he heard it and really liked it as well. He’s really big on writing, and he came back

really quickly with a song and a demo.”

“I wanted to represent for my Lucians, so I thought that Shemmy J would have been perfect for it because of the groove the riddim has. He has an Afro-Soca vibe, and I really like the diversity in his voice and his ability to put a unique twist on things.

“After I did the three guys, I said ‘Wait a minute, I need a girl tune.’ Being a young lady who is big on independence, I had to consider who would be best. Stephen is close with Jadel’s manager and I looked at her recent songs and I said ‘Yeah, she would be great for the track’”. The final collaboration burgeoned at a small quarantine listening party, when Hollywood HP heard the tracks and asked to be a part of project.

McNamara-Phillip said that she’s enjoyed her experience of being one of the few women involved with the back-end of the soca industry.

She revealed to Soca News that she plans to work with her husband on future projects.

With so much on the go, one might ask how she finds balance. McNamara-Phillip explained, “It can sometimes become very overwhelming. If Carnival had not been cancelled, I would have been stressed right now. But I have an amazing team, and I am grateful for their assistance. And of course my husband; he helps me, and always makes sure I have a little dinner at night. Stephen has always told me, just try to find balance, and he has been very instrumental in my finding time to do anything.”

McNamara-Phillip also revealed there have been talks about salvaging Saint Lucia Carnival by going virtual. She expressed her willingness to support anything to, “maintain a presence and keep the cultural element of things alive.” She, however, has her eyes set on 2021 to do things bigger, despite any changes and restrictions that may be implemented due to the pandemic.

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SOCA

PEOPLE

JUS D

I ACTUALLY MAKE ALL TYPES OF MUSIC. I RECENTLY RELEASED AN ALBUM CALLED OTHER SIDE Antonio Patrick Johnson or, as he is more commonly known, ‘Jus D’, is a Barbadian singer, songwriter and producer. Beginning his musical career as writer and producer for soca artist Rupee, he later made the leap and began performing himself; Jus D’s 2020 Crop Over release, Touch, features on VP Records’ Soca Gold 2020.

Do you make music to coincide with Crop Over? If so, do you intend to release any more music?

I actually make all types of music. I recently released an album called Other Side, which showcases a different side of me. I definitely release music for Cropover as well, as that’s tradition, but I do this for a living so it’s music all year round.

We asked Jus D some questions about his collaboration with VP, and wondered what else he’s been up to.

This year the world came to a standstill.

How has it affected you, and what have you been doing during the lockdown?

I've had to cancel flights, shows, all sorts, I had to restructure and become more innovative. I’ve released music throughout this time, and tried to learn new stuff that would benefit me.

How did the Soca Gold 2020 link-up come about?

I actually got a call from Edwin, who's part of VP Records. I was on Soca Gold 2019, and he wanted something brand new and unreleased for 2020. I sent him two tracks, and Touch was the one they wanted.

Tell us a little more about that track; what’s it all about?

Touch is a mixture of classic soca and the modern style. My team and I wanted to create a nice, infectious blend that the original soca lovers would appreciate, as well as the new ones. It’s basically about a women who wants a man to touch her.

What does it mean to have your track on the Soca Gold 2020 album?

It’s a great achievement. Soca Gold has been around for a while, and with so many artists releasing music, the fact that Touch is the lead single is a huge deal.

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What’s next for Jus D? Well, definitely more music first!! I'm also working on some new business ventures, and strengthening the relationship with VP. YOU CAN STAY CONNECTED WITH JUS D AT ANY OF THE FOLLOWING INSTAGRAM | @IAMJUSD TWITTER | @IAMJUSD FACEBOOK | @IAMJUSDMUSIC

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FEATURE

DOMINICA’S BOUYON THERAPY WORDS | DR. VIOLET CUFFY

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usic has been oft-dubbed therapy for the soul – and new meaning has been brought to that epithet in the Commonwealth of Dominica during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic lockdown period.

Musical Therapy, now a regular Sunday evening showcase, was conceived of and produced by music producer Cornell Phillip and his wife Carlyn ‘XP’ Phillip, and it’s taken the island by storm. Since its inception, the show has fast spread to sister Caribbean islands and much further afield amongst the diaspora, their friends and families.

Dominicans dutifully appear over the nowpopular virtual zoom platform, and transform their individual spaces – be it living room, bedroom, backyard - to party scenes to be part of Carlyn XP’s 20 SN AUG 2020

live renditions, streamed across Facebook Live and on YouTube.

Dominica is renowned for its World Creole Music Festival and spontaneous ‘real mas’ carnival. The island has traditionally generated phenomenal music producers, songwriters and artists - amongst others, Exile One, Grammacks, Midnight Groovers, Nelly Stharre, Jeff Joseph, Nasio Fontaine, Gordon Henderson, Ophelia Marie and Michele Henderson - who over the years have made significant contributions to the island’s rich cultural heritage and unique genres of music.

Dominica's music industry created cadence, then cadence-lypso, and much later the popular bouyon - which in part was developed in Cornell Phillip’s own home studio. Bouyon was first popularised by the then leading bouyon band on

CARLYN 'XP' + CORNELL PHILLIP

the island, WCK (Windward Caribbean Kulture), and more recently by Triple Kay and Asa Banton.

Dominican artists continue to impact the international scene, with producer Krishna ’Dada’ Lawrence producing the 2019 Road March -winning song Famalay, by Machel Montano, Gamal ‘Skinny Fabulous’ Doyle and Ian ‘Bunji Garlin’ Alvarez; he’s also the man behind the 2020 popular carnival hit song Conch Shell sung by Montano, Skinny and Neil ‘Iwer’ George’.

With several other native Dominican performers gaining prominence on the international stage across various fields of arts and culture, this small island – the population was a mere 67,000 at the 2011 census – has surely made its mark on the global scene.

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MUSIC

SELECTOR HEMO'S

TOP 15 SOCA TRACKS Our 15 soca tracks this month is provided by Selctor Hemo of Lime Records, creator of the carnival band CANAVAL. The band can be found taking part in Japan Carnival (Yosakoi), which will be held on Tuesday 10 & Wednesday 11 August, 2021.

1. Feel The Love | FREETOWN & DJ PRIVATE RYAN

2. Bumper Murder | KERWIN DU BOIS & MICAL TEJA 3. Fatt | NADIA BATSON

5. Carry On | PATRICE ROBERTS

6. Outside and Inside | VER. LOL

/ VIKING DINGDONG

7. Thanks For The Love | KERWIN DU BOIS 8. Boss Lady | KES

9. The Struggle | BUNJI GARLIN

10. Bottle Over Head | WETTY BEATZ FEAT. TRINIBOI JOOCIE 11. West Indies | ALISON HINDS 12. Dive | FAY-ANN LYONS

13. Gimme D' Road | DESTRA & CALYPSO ROSE 14. Stage Gone Bad | KES & IWER GEORGE

15. Conch Shell | MACHEL MONTANO, IWER GEORGE, SKINNY FABULOUS

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INSTAGRAM | @SELECTORHEMO @JAPAN_CARNIVAL

4. Captain | HEY CHOPPI

MUSIC ALBUMS

THESE DAYS, IT’S RARE FOR A FULL SOCA ALBUM TO BE RELEASED; FEW AND FAR APART, WE CAN BUT CELEBRATE THOSE THAT ARE. HERE ARE A FEW YOU MIGHT WANT TO ADD TO YOUR COLLECTION.

Free Up

Soca Gold 2020

Queendom

This is a four-song EP release by the Grenadian soca artists Big Red HD.

Soca Gold has become a yearly staple. We think it may be the only soca compilation still available to purchase as a physical, as well as digital, album.

Queen of Bacchanal Destra Garcia presents her fifteenth album Queendom. The album features fifteen songs, many of which you would have heard over the 2020 Trinidad carnival season.

Soca Universe

We Muzik - Vol 11 VARIOUS ARTISTS

We Home

This compilation features some of the hottest tracks of Trinidad Carnival 2020.

This is the band's first live studio album, available for purchase from Friday 28 August.

BIG RED HD

VARIOUS ARTISTS

VARIOUS ARTISTS

DESTRA GARCIA

KES THE BAND

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MUSIC

RADIO SHOWS + STREAMS LISTENING TO THE RADIO IS NOT WHAT IT USED TO BE, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO SOCA MUSIC. THERE ARE A MYRIAD OF STREAMS AVAILABLE; WE’VE LISTED JUST THE MORE PERMANENT SOCA SHOWS.

SUNDAY

FRIDAY

12PM-2PM

8-11PM GMT

DJ Martin Jay Bakahnal Radio tun.in/seOA4

DJ Lokdwn I Chunes Radio tun.in/se22k

THE CARIBBEAN AFFAIR

SOCA AND COCKTAILS

5PM-7PM

8-11PM GMT

Presents by ChéInTheMIXX Robbo Ranx Radio robboranx.com/listenlive

DJ CJay http://tun.in/SfoKP

LUSH SOCA SUNDAYS

6-9PM EST

SOCA THERAPY

DJ Soca Prince instagram.com/socaprince

WEDNESDAY 8PM-10PM

BABWAH

Babwah Entertainments Foam Radio foamradio.com

THURSDAY 8-11PM BST SOCA 2D WORLD DJ Rockshun I Chunes Radio tun.in/se22k

CARIBBEAN SESSIONS

SATURDAY 12PM-2PM

THE SUPER SOCA SHOW

DJs: AAA Badboy & Dub Boy, Atki2 (At Key Two) and Jonsey Wales Ujima 98FM ujimaradio.com 2PM-4PM

SOCA IS WE SHOW DJ Piper Flo Radio floradio.co.uk 5-7PM GMT

THE MIGHTY HITMAN SHOW DJ D’Mighty Hitman The Frontline Radio flrradio.com

SUN 30 AUG 5PM - 7PM

LUSH SOCA SUNDAYS robboranxradio/listenlive 7PM - 11PM

BANGING GUEST SOCA MIXX (PRE-RECORDED) Heartless Crew BBC 1Xtra

9PM -10PM NON STOP OLD SKOOL

SOCA ANTHEMS

ChéInTheMIXX on Kisstory kissfmuk.com

MON 31 AUG 10PM -11PM THE HOTTEST SOCA

VIBES ON KISS FM ChéInTheMIXX kissfmuk.com

OTHER STREAMS CARIBBEAN SESSIONS CARIBBEANSESSIONS.CO.UK/RADIO TEAM SOCA TEAMSOCA.COM | BAKAHNAL RADIO BAKAHNALRADIO.CO.UK THE FRONTLINE RADIO FLRRADIO.COM 24 SN AUG 2020

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NOTTING HILL

CARNIVAL

WATCH | WWW.NHCARNIVAL.ORG TWITTER + INSTAGRAM + FACEBOOK | @NHCARNIVALLDN #NHCATHOME 26 SN AUG 2020

FROMSTREET TO SCREEN NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL COMES TO YOUR SOFA!

A

WORDS | STEPHEN SPARK

socially distanced carnival – what foolishness is that? We know the answer, of course: a microscopic bit of parasitic protein has succeeded where half a century of funding crises, internal divisions, terrorism fears, dubious policing methods and attacks from newspapers, politicians and bigots have failed. Covid-19, with its unholy paraphernalia of masks, sanitiser and 2 metre warnings, has cleared Carnival off the noisy, grubby streets and into the slick unreality of the virtual world.

At least Notting Hill Carnival will be happening after a fashion, and you’ll be able to watch it in every internet-connected corner of the world. That could give London’s mas, steelpan, soca, calypso and sound systems their biggest audience ever (so share the links below with everyone you know).

You won’t even have to queue for portaloo – but if you want rum and roti you’ll have to bring your own!

THE PROGRAMME STARTS HERE

In the week leading up to Carnival, Samsung Electronics UK will be taking over a giant screen in Piccadilly Circus in London’s West End to showcase ‘Colours of Carnival’, a series of short, high-definition Notting Hill Carnival preview films. Look out for costumes designed by Melissa Simon-Hartman, samba drumming group Batala, dancer Elisangela Mahogany and sauce-man Levi Roots. The videos will launch Carnival with a live countdown directing viewers to tune in via www.nhcarnival.org.

You can also catch the films over the bank holiday weekend at Samsung KX in Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross.

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 2020:

ACCESS ALL AREAS

Carnival runs under this unwieldy title from Saturday 29 to Monday 31 August. The free-to-view shows are being streamed on www.nhcarnival.org; Twitter: @NHCarnivalLDN; Instagram: @nhcarnivalldn; Facebook: @NHCarnivalLDN. #NHCatHome is the official Notting Hill Carnival app (Apple and Android).

CHANNEL SELECTION

There are four channels to choose from, so you can dip in and out of the mas and pan, sound systems, stages and calypso just as you do in ‘real’ carnival but without having to negotiate your way through crowds and road blocks. Here’s your channelhopping guide.

CHANNEL 1

On Saturday is dedicated to steelpan (6 9pm, presented by Jason Lewis and Reema Samuel), and calypso and groovy soca (9pm midnight, presenters Giselle Carter and Coco P). On Sunday and Monday (9am midday) it becomes the Culture Channel, presented by Aurie Styler and Claire Cottey. There’ll be stories about NHC and interviews with some Carnival’s pioneers.

CHANNEL 2

Runs on Sunday and Monday (midday to 8pm).

Dubbed the Parade Channel, it will focus on the colour and splendour of mas, along with J’Ouvert (don’t forget your powder) and Brazilian samba bands. Viewers will be in the capable hands of NHC stalwarts Martin Jay and Giselle Carter.

CHANNEL 3

Is the Sound System Channel, fronted by Shayna Marie and Ras Kwame, both from Capital XTRA. Catch it on Sunday and Monday (midday to 8pm).

CHANNEL 4

The Main Stage Channel, is fronted by Radio 1Xtra’s DJ Ace and Capital XTRA’s Remel London. It runs on Sunday and Monday (8-11pm).

It’s a brave and imaginative response to an unprecedented crisis. Soca News wishes the Sofa Carnival well while waiting impatiently for Notting Hill 2021 when viruses permitting we’ll all be on the road again.

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EVENTS THE FETE LANDSCAPE HAS WELL AND TRULY CHANGED THIS YEAR. BUT PROMOTERS ARE STILL 'TRYIN A TING' (AS THEY MIGHT SAY), SO WE'VE COMPILED A LIST OF EVENTS AS USUAL. SOME ARE PHYSICAL AND SOME VIRTUAL, SO PLEASE MAKE SURE TO CHECK; HOPEFULLY THERE'S ENOUGH TO KEEP YOU ENTERTAINED DURING THE MONTH OF AUGUST. SAT 22 AUG

SUN 23 AUG

SAT 29 AUG

DJ TATE

FEVER IN THE PARK CARNIVAL HEADPHONE PARTY

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

FETE IN THE PARK

@South London, venue to be confirmed. Music By Credable, Danny D, DJ Bones & DJ Tate.

Time 3 - 10pm. Price £20-30.

TOUCHDOWN SECTION

THE SOCA LINK UP SILENT GARDEN PARTY

@Lambeth, venue to be confirmed. Music By Supa Nytro, T-Bone & Kal-i, Afterdark Entertainment, DJ Vibes, Armani, John Boy & MC Stiffler.

Time 3pm - midnight. Price £10-15.

DJ MARKEE

SOCA ADDICT

@Limin Beach Club, Gabriel's Wharf, 56 Upper Ground, SE1 9PP. Music By DJ Markee.

Time 5 - 8pm. Price £20. Info Your favourite drinks-inclusive celebrates its 5th birthday. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the concept will be different however they’d like to invite you and your bubble to raise a glass with them.

@South London, venue to be confirmed. Music By Trini Boys, DJ Dagga Star, DJ Stutz, DJ Teej, Majikal & Prince Vern. Time 2pm. Price £25

FRI 28 AUG CARNIVAL CONCIERGE

RUM TASTING THE CARNIVAL EDITION

@The Caketail Club, 268 King Street, Hammersmith, W6 0SP. Music By Credable. Time 6 9pm. Price £32.50 - 55.

BARRELLED THE CARNIVAL FRIDAY AFTER WORK LIME

@The Castle, 392 Camden Road, N7 0SJ. Music By Credable & DJ Tate. Time 6 - 11pm. Price £5 - 12.

MK2020

@West London, venue to be confirmed. Music By QT 2hype, Likkle Shaun, DJ Swivo & Bugzy.

Time 7pm - 6am. Price £20 - 25.

Tel 07446 584 548

SOCANEWS.COM/EVENTS

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@ Channel 1. Time 9am - 12pm.

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

CARNIVAL WARM-UP

@ Channel 1. Featuring A steelpan show, and calypso & groovy soca. Time 6pm-midnight.

JUST VIBEZ

DOUBLE TAPP

FULL EVENT DETAILS

CARNIVAL CULTURE

SO LONG I EH SEE YOU

@Costa Del Tottenham, 1 Ashley Road, Tottenham, N17 9LZ. Time 12noon - 5pm. Info justvibezldn@gmail.com ZOOM IN FETE

ZOOM IN - SUMMER OF SOCA - BIG FETE ENDING EDITION

@ZOOM. Live Performances Voice, Nailah Blackman, Tallpree & DJ Fearless Kevon, Yannick Hooper, Caribbean Steelpan Connextion Ensemble plus more TBA. Music By D'Enforcas, Ryan Sayeed & Barrie Hype, DJ Spice Int'l, Lady Drea, Stanman & Soso, DJ Payou, DJ Tate, Soca Twins, Barney Millah, DJ Lbee, DJ Jel, Sensi Movement, Rockstone, Sentinel Sound, Didjay Mack, Hendrik Unltd, D' Soca Lyon, Fiber Fbr & Freeze Int'l., Back to Basics. Time 8pm - 8am.

Price free - £2.30.

NOTTING HILL

CARNIVAL

SEPTEMBER

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

SAT 5 SEPT

@ Channel 2, nhcarnival.org Time 12 - 8pm

@ Channel 2, nhcarnival.org Time 12 - 8pm

BARKING CARNIVAL

SUN 30 AUG

PARADE CHANNEL

MON 31 AUG

PARADE CHANNEL

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

@ Channel 3, nhcarnival.org Time 12 - 8pm

@Online at ukoncareers.com.

Time 2-5pm.

SOUND SYSTEM CHANNEL

FUTURE MAS

@ Channel 3, nhcarnival.org Time 12 - 8pm

@Unit 13A Heybridge Way, London, E10 7NQ. Time 3 - 8pm.

Price Free Admission.

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL ACCESS ALL AREAS

SUN 13 SEPT

@ Channel 4, nhcarnival.org Time 8 - 11pm

@ Channel 4, nhcarnival.org Time 8 - 11pm

HACKNEY CARNIVAL VIRTUAL

SOUND SYSTEM CHANNEL

MAIN STAGE CHANNEL

MAIN STAGE CHANNEL

LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL

LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL

@ZOOM. Info A tribute to a decade of Prince, Princess, King and Queen costumes, leedscarnival.co.uk.

@ZOOM. Info Carnival Day, leedscarnival.co.uk.

VIRTUAL LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL

TEARS MAS

CARNIVAL BBQ BASH AT THE TRUDE

@Trude Bar, 91 Soutrh Norwood High Street, SE25 6EA. Time 12 - 8pm. Price call 07951 250 803.

ISLAND LOVE PROMOTIONS

MAS MUS PLAY

@West London, venue to be confirmed. Time 2 - 10pm. Price £5 - 12.

V LOUNGE

COVID CARNIVAL

@V Lounge, 673 Lordship Lane, Wood Green, N22 5LA. Time 3pm - late. Price £30, various time slots. Tel 07733 474 378.

LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL VIRTUAL REMEDY

SILENT CARNIVAL

@East London, venue to be confirmed. Music By Triple M, DJ Tate, Prince Vern, DJ Armani + Guests. Time 1pm. Price £15 - 30.

NHC 2021 BAND LAUNCH

@Online at hackney.gov. uk/carnival. Time 12 - 8pm.

PLEASE DO KEEP IN MIND GOVERNMENT WARNINGS WITH REGARD TO SOCIAL DISTANCING AND MASK-WEARING.

BUSSPEPPER

BRUNCH PEPPER CARNIVAL COOLER

@Pergola Olympia, Olympia Way, Kensington, W14 8UX. Soundtrack By Shep Beats & DJ Tate. Time 2 - 8pm. Price £40.

LIMIN

LIMIN' BEACH CLUB CARNIVAL LIME

@Gabriel's Wharf, Bishop's, London, SE1 9QS. Music By DJ Markee. Time 1 - 6pm. Price £100 - 360 Tel 07812 334 549

FULL EVENT DETAILS

SOCANEWS. COM/EVENTS

ISLAND RR

CARIBBEAN MOVIE NIGHT

@The Refreshment Room, 25 Broadway, E15 4BQ. Time 3pm midnight. Price £5 - 10.

GREEN JAB

GREENJAB GLOW

@Venue TBC. Time 9pm - late.

Price £25 - 70.

* At the time of going to print all information was deemed to be correct. We have double and triple checked our dates, but if you can see an error, or there is an event you think we have missed, please let us know by emailing info@ socanews.com.

SN AUG 2020 29

VOX POP WITH NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 2020 TAKEN OFF THE ROAD, WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND? AND WHAT WILL YOU MISS THE MOST?

Jahan Masquerader North London

Natasha Olibert Masquerader @Likefinewine36

Farrah Grant Miss Caribbean UK Finalist

As a masquerader, my spirit is restless and meh foot hot.

Ah have real tabanca. The spirit of carnival is missing this year, and my heart aches. The freedom of owning the road, dancing in the streets to the sweet sounds of soca on the music trucks, drinking rum and winin’ wit meh family, friends and dem whole day, unity and community spirit... people of all nationalities coming together to enjoy the Caribbean island experience of fabulous costumes, steelbands, reggae and house sound systems, food and drinks. I know there will be many private parties taking place this Bank Holiday weekend, and I will definitely be looking to party somewhere.

As the song goes, “Once ah Trini reach in de fete is niceness”.

I don't have any solid plans for the August Bank Holiday weekend yet, although I know of a few activities happening then. It's difficult to make a decision right now, but whatever I decide to do will most definitely be some sort of tribute to a carnival lost.

I will miss the sweet sounds of soca and the absolute freedom of dutty mas on Sunday. As much as I love having my makeup done and getting dressed up in feathers and gems on Monday, dutty mas is the day that I can be unapologetically myself, surrounded by like-minded people, in full celebration of our culture. No discrimination; all in!

The cancellation of Notting Hill Carnival was a sad one for me, as it's a time where I get to fully embrace my Caribbean culture and be surrounded by people who are not only embracing their culture but people who enjoy the Caribbean culture, music, dance and pretty costumes. Notting Hill Carnival is a time where everyone is in unison, it’s like all the problems in the world are gone for that weekend as we fete and party, and it’s honestly a lovely aura/ energy to be around. I think that will be what I miss the most about Notting Hill Carnival this year. Whilst the big carnival isn’t happening, I will definitely be having my own carnival in my garden with my family over the Bank Holiday weekend; Carnival must go on!

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TRAVEL

SAINT LUCIA

She is Saint Lucia

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COME AND REFRESH YOUR MIND BODY AND SOUL IN A NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL ENVIRONMENT FOR A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER

aint Lucia is beautiful in so many ways.

Her scenery is breathtaking - from the iconic Piton Mountains, lush rainforests and palm-fringed beaches to beautiful bays and stunning waterfalls. Her people are her pride and joy, renowned for their warm and friendly natures.

Her culture is rich and varied, offering unique experiences found nowhere else in the Caribbean.

As for her food; get ready for your taste buds to explode with flavour. Talented chefs combine fresh, local ingredients with seasoning and spices influenced by Saint Lucia’s diverse cultural heritage to create mouthwatering dishes. Many of the restaurants on island offer spectacular views, which help to add to the memorable dining experience.

When looking for a place to stay there are so many great options to choose from, whether 32 SN AUG 2020

you're travelling solo, with friends and family or a partner. Opt for a boutique hotel, an all-inclusive resort, a spacious villa or perhaps a small guest house, self-catering apartment or luxurious resort; there is something to suit all tastes and budgets.

With an array of activities including chocolate making, rum and wine tasting, Creole cooking classes to zip-lining through the rainforest, boat tours, paddle-boarding, hiking and Segway tours plus many more, you are spoilt for choice.

Saint Lucia is home to a wide variety of natural attractions. Dip into the mud baths at the Sulphur Springs; meander along rainforest trails; marvel at the beautiful flowers of Diamond Botanical Gardens or hike up the Tet Paul Nature Trail for stunning views of the Petit Piton Mountain.

She is Saint Lucia. Let Her Inspire You.

Visit stlucia.org for more information.

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FOOD

CHICKEN PELAU Ingredients

COOK AH CARNIVAL FOOD

C

arnival may be about the costumes, music, vibe and friendships, but another thing that plays a major role is the food. With no Notting Hill Carnival on the road this year, you can still get in on the action by watching the live and recorded streams - and cooking up the right kind of food will help bring your other senses in on the carnival action.

A couple of our favourite dishes – which, we promise, are really easy to make –should be the perfect accompaniment. If you need someone to try them out for taste, feel free to give us a call.

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3lb chicken pieces, skin removed, washed in lime/lemon and water, seasoned in a marinade of chopped onions, chive, thyme, garlic, mustard, ketchup, salt and black pepper 1lb rice, washed 1/4 block creamed coconut 1l water 1 large onion, sliced 1 sweet pepper, chopped 2 medium carrots, diced 12oz pigeon peas, cooked OR 1 tin pigeon peas, drained 2-3 tbsp cooking oil 2-4oz sugar 1 hot pepper (optional) salt and black pepper, to taste Method 1.

2.

Heat the oil in a large pot.

Add sugar; allow to burn until dark brown.

3. Stir in the chicken and turn until evenly coated with sugar. Leave to cook for five minutes.

4. Stir the rice into the chicken, turning often until well blended. Cook for three minutes more.

5.

Add the onion, sweet pepper, carrots and peas, and stir-fry for a few seconds.

6.

Next add water, creamed coconut, hot pepper (if used), salt and black pepper. Bring to the boil, then simmer on a low heat for approx. 30 mins, or until rice is cooked and all liquid has evaporated.

7.

Serve with a crisp green salad.

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DRINK

REGGAE RUM PUNCH You maybe stuck at home on the Bank Holiday, Carnival weekend, but nothing is stopping you from taking a drink.

You don’t even have to worry about negotiating the journey home, after all!

This easy-to-follow rum punch recipe, created by Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell in the late 1990s, is an oldie but a goodie.

Ingredients 50ml Wray and Nephew rum 100ml pineapple juice 100ml orange juice 25ml Grenadine syrup 10ml lime juice.

Method Shake all the ingredients, together with plenty of ice, until cold. Pour into a tall glass with fresh ice. Garnish with a slice of pineapple, or a pineapple leaf.

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FEATURE

So Melissa Simon-Hartman This isn’t the first time we’ve spoken to Melissa Simon-Hartman, one of our favourite designers (and people); we last featured Melissa in the August 2019 issue of Soca News. However, with the current pandemic taking Notting Hill Carnival 2020 off the road, we wanted to know just what she’s been up to. And we REALLY needed some clarification of the rumours that she’s been showcasing her talents and designs in a video for music artist Beyoncé.

[Please note that this interview took place before the launch of Beyoncé’s album, Black is King.]

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How has it been for you since the world came to a grinding halt?

It has been strange, which I am sure many will agree with. I procrastinated for the first two months of lockdown.

Something I always complained about is not having enough time, and yet I struggled to do anything for the first two months besides home-schooling my daughter. I lacked the energy and motivation to do anything creatively until the latter stage of lockdown, and I was feeling frustrated by this. In hindsight, I most probably needed that break of not doing anything project-wise, and the world coming to a grinding halt allowed me to reflect on the things I take for granted and to appreciate what really matters in life.

With the absence of a physical Notting Hill Carnival 2020, how have you been making use of your time? Are designs just get tossed into a ‘Designs for the future’ file?

I managed to complete one ‘Couture’ collection which had been abandoned due to lack of time pre-lockdown, and have secured a couple of exciting collaborations with other creatives. I am launching the urban range called A.F.I.A, very soon. It was due to launch in early July, but I was not happy with certain aspects and decided not to rush it out until it is completely ready to go.

I also created digital art from previous photoshoots of pieces I have made.

We recently read an article stating that you’ve been busy creating some designs for Beyoncé; please tell us more about that, and how it came about?

Last year, I was directly approached on Instagram by her stylist to get involved in 40 SN AUG 2020

BEYONCE BLACK IS KING, DRESS DESIGN MELISSA SIMON-HARTMAN

a Beyoncé project, which later turned out to be Black is King. I was commissioned to make seven costumes for the chessboard scene, which included a costume for Beyoncé herself. It is due to premiere on 31st July, so it will be interesting to see how the pieces were used and to discover how much of my work has been featured. Regardless of the outcome, I feel honoured to have made a small contribution to what is set to be an iconic moment in music history.

What are your plans for the August Bank Holiday, since you won’t be on the road?

Drink and be merry at home with my family, and tune in to the virtual NHC. Do you have specific future plans for Carnival, costumes and couture that you can tell (or at least hint to) us about?

I am developing the ‘Couture’ and ‘Urban’/’Streetwear’ ranges for my fashion label Simon-Hartman London. In relation to Carnival, the Individual costume designs for RDR that were due to be presented this year will be produced and presented next year.

SN AUG 2020 41

FEATURE

ROXBOROUGH BEACH, TOBAGO

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO CELEBRATES 58 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE

C

WE WISH ALL TRINBAGONIANS A HAPPY INDEPENDENCE

hristopher Columbus landed on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago in 1498, and made them both Spanish colonies until 18 February, 1797, when the British landed in Trinidad. With a fleet of 18 warships, they defeated the Spanish led by the Governor, Don José Maria Chacón. By that time, Trinidad had a population of 17,718, of which 1,082 were Amerindians, 2,151 European, 4,476 ‘free Blacks and people of colour’ and 10,009 slaves.

Tobago, the cigar-shaped island, was passed between various European colonisers over the centuries, including the British, Dutch, French and Spanish. Eventually, after numerous struggles, the British augmented its hold over Tobago as, in 1889, it became one half of the colony of Trinidad and Tobago.

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On August 31, 1962, Trinidad and Tobago lowered the British flag and replaced it with the now iconic black, red and white standard, led by its first Prime Minister, Eric Williams. Widely regarded as ‘the Father of the Nation’, the leader of the Peoples’ National Movement (PNM) served as Prime Minister from 1956 until his death in 1981.

‘Trinbago’, as it is popularly known, became a republic within the Commonwealth, severing its links with the British monarchy on August 1, 1976; a fitting date, as it is celebrated as ‘Emancipation Day’.

The country held an election on Monday 10 August, when the serving Prime Minister and leader of the PNM, Dr Keith Christopher Rowley, was voted back into power. He has held the position since September 2015.

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TRAVEL GRENADA

M

Pure Grenada, Just For You GRENADA HAS GLORIOUS BEACHES – OVER 30 OF THEM ON THE LEEWARD CAST – WITH AN ALLURE ALL OF THEIR OWN

issing those tropical island vibes?

The tri-island paradise of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique is ready with a big warm welcome and plenty to see, hear, taste and do – all with safety paramount.

The islands have implemented a comprehensive range of safety measures across the tourism experience, from the airport to accommodation, marinas to water sports, restaurants and bars to hotels and villas. A new ‘Pure Safe Travel’ Seal of Accreditation must be displayed once an establishment has been inspected and certified, and staff have been trained in Covid-19 -related protocols.

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Grenada is a treat for all the senses. Head into the verdant rainforest interior peppered with waterfalls and punctuated with gloriously exotic blooms. This is tropical to a 'T'. Amble, walk or hike, the choice is there – just take deep breaths to feel cleansed. Then cool off in a waterfall pool.

Over on Carriacou the pace is decidedly slower not that Grenada is in a rush! Check out traditional beach boatbuilding at Windward and ‘lime’ with the locals over a Jack Iron rum or some fresh island fruit juices. Hop over to Petite Martinique by ferry for a sense of life on a tiny tropical island, cossetted by the blue sea and skies; a real ‘off-grid’ experience.

In Grenada there’s no chance to go hungry, given the range of mouthwatering fresh food. From oceanfront fine dining to informal roadside stops and casual family-run eateries, there’s a common thread: fresh, quality food made with love.

Spices such as nutmeg, turmeric and cinnamon grow in abundance, giving the islands their ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ moniker. Don’t forget to indulge in chocolate: the island boasts five independent cocoa growers who create delicious ‘tree-to-bar’ chocolate (mostly vegetarian, and dairy-free).

Live music is a way of life here and joining in the dancing is part of the deal! Mr Killa and Tallpree are just the tip of the talent iceberg, so explore the island to find live performers who bring the night alive. And there are three rum distilleries and a microbrewery, in addition to a vodka and gin distillery, just to get the party started.

Grenada has glorious beaches – over 30 of them on the leeward cast – each with an allure of its own. And don’t miss the chance to get under the water: check out the world’s first Underwater Sculpture Park, or dive Grenada’s reefs and wrecks - all located close to shore.

Book flights from Heathrow or Gatwick and find out how Pure Grenada is Just For You.

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