"The Great Feast" | Ras Kommanda

Trinizagada|Santiwah has no knowledge of this church in Cumuto that this stalwart of the Kaiso community is singing about in this song - no more bush baths for me! Today we conclude the year with a track titled "The Great Feast" by one Ras Kommanda. Didn't  you expect me to be a bit silly to end the year? For those who don't know I will tell you this, I have no intention of pinning any 'blue' tied in a piece of cloth inside my shirt to protect me from the wrath of any Cumuto Priest named 'Lawrence". The fact is 'Santiwah' means bush bath and I have brewed some black sage leaves and took a warm bath to ensure that the money priest from Cumuto cyar touch me.

Now having said all of that to keep me on the right side of the spirit world we can not come to terms with the production of Ras Kommanda and Mr. Kenny Phillips. It is quite refreshing to listen to the traditional music of our land sung with such control and genuine love for the art form. The love and confidence can be felt in the manner in which Ras Kommanda bathes the audible world with his beautiful story telling skill that only a talented and mature calypsonian can portray.

Now in terms of the lyrics the story may or may not mean anything to you but it is the job of the Calypso Chantuelle to leave you thinking about what you just heard and if, at any time, he brough you into his world then he achieved his goal. In this song the lyrics and story telling are so good that while I listened to the song I was in Cumuto taking in the liturgy - my name is not Duprey and I definitely don't have shares in Clico! 

The vocal performance was a controlled one. The chantuelle was relaxed and told his story in traditional 'Kommanda' style. It was easy to understand every word sung and you should take note that 'big money does give poor people diarrhea".

In term of the music - it speaks for itself. What is better than a traditional calypso and nothing else can leave you tapping your feet like traditional calypso music. This is the work of Mr. Kenny Phillips and from the depth of his soul comes what he loves the most 'good traditional calypso music".

Replay worthiness and lasting appeal for this song goes without saying. Any story telling done by a calypsonian lives on forever. Every song that has been released to date , in the Soca and Island Pop arenas' will sound stale as the months turn into years but this calypso will sound just as good and even sweeter as the years go by... Every Trinidadian and lover of music knows that is a fact of life!
This is original and traditional calypso music that was born in my land and will continue to drive the festival of my land. It does not matter what new music comes around the traditional calypso will always have that original sound regardless to singer or name of song. If the Chantuelle is good then you will be singing his song or humming the melody without even consciously realizing it... that is the power of calypso!

Production Notes:
This song was written by Steve Pascall and produced by Garvin Marcelle for G-NOTE Recording Studios in Fyzabad, Trinidad in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies  (868) 721-7846.

The track was mixed by Kenny Phillips at KMPMUSICLAB in Palmiste San Fernando, Trinidad in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies. Anyone interested in the production of music 'the right way' should contact Kenny at:  (868) 653-1820.

When I received this song from Mr. Kenny Phillips he sent a listing of Ras Kommanda's achievements. I have not listed any of it here but my post is not a small one (just imaging if I listed a few of his achievements!). Ras Kommanda has achieved much in this business and if I attempt to list his achievements this post will be too long. Let's just say that he is a man of conviction who believes in Calypso; he believes that what you sing you should be able to stand by it and sleep well at nights. He will not sell out the art form or his fellow calypso singers. Ras Kommanda is the Chairman of Tuco South and brings to you today "The Great Feast"!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

"The Great Feast" - Ras Kommanda

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Grand Theft Auto IV | "Brrt" by Bunji Garlin

In 2008 the publishers of 'Grand Theft Auto IV' reported that the game produced by Rockstar Games "sold 6 million copies worldwide in its first week of release"! What is even more astounding is that "it took in US $500 million after selling just 3.6 million copies on its first day of release.

OK, so you might be wondering why am I featuring this discussion here and for a story that appeared on mtv.com on May 7, 2008. Well here it is plain and simple. Bunji Garlin's song "Brrt" was featured on the sound track of Grand Theft Auto IV. Immediately I thought about the circulation/mass appeal of/for the song and possible royalties that could be earned. I wondered what kind of deal was struck to use the song.

Just think about it for a moment, that was in 2008 and it is now 2011. I am sure that a lot more of that game has been sold to date. I am not saying that Bunji should be super rich because of this game but at least he should be receiving income from the sale of each game (depending on the deal that was struck to use his song). Now one must also take into consideration that the sound track is also sold separately!

Something that I find very compelling about this is that he surely has received great exposure because of the wildfire sales that this game received world wide. Now if you really think about it Bunji's music (as a Dancehall/Soca singer from Trinidad) should have the biggest circulation (because of the sales of this game) than any other artiste from the Caribbean region (or it has to be close to the top!).

I find this very interesting and the statistics (of games sold as it relates to copies of this song in a buyers hand) should make for a very compelling story. Many people like to boast about songs making the billboard charts (like Kevin Lyttles's Turn Me On) and there is nothing wrong with that) but isn't it interesting that the song Brrrt by Bunji may have a bigger circulation than "Turn Me On" may ever have? Now I understand that the sale of a game and the sale of a song are two different things completely. However in terms of circulation (and legitimate sales) of a song (even thought it was packaged as one of many songs on the sound track for the game) this song by Bunji is huge!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

"Brrt" - Bunji Garlin 2007

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"Red Bull Riddim Sampler" | Precision Productions

This is the music sampler of the soon to be released "Red Bull Riddim" coming out of 'Sando' from Precision Productions - these guys are really busy! This Sampler was 'dropped' by Precision via DJ Private Ryan as a Soca Sampler | 2012. I really don't know how or why they keep calling this new music Soca... do you think that it sound like Soca? I don't!

These are the singers and songs on the Riddim:

Bunji Garlin  with a saucy one titled "Bam Bam"
Destra Garcia - "Attitude" 
Tian Winter - "Pressure Waist" 
Nebula868 - "Work" 
Swappi & Patrice Roberts - "Gih Me" 
Orlando Octave - "Go Down"
M1 - "Free Up"

Bunji on the Riddim sounds OK but more like a dancehall track. Now I have to admit that I like Bunji a lot... I am very biased when it comes to his music. So I would refrain from getting too involved with whatever he does - I just like listening to him!

Destra has attitude on the track. She makes it sound like a true Carnival song - yes this song has attitude! Hands down, Destra sounds the best on this Riddim. She made the Riddim disappear in the background. The Riddim was not important - my attention was on her voice and it was good - that is what I came away with after listening to the mix. 

Tian Winter pulls the track back in line with the Bunji track making it sound like a dancehall track. This Antiguan had a nice voice but I really need to hear a bit more of the song to get a good feel of his effort. 

Nebula868, I had problems understanding what was actually said in the song... some pieces yes but the clarity was not what I expected. This one went by me - not enough of the track! The Sampler is way to short; it should have been about eight minutes long. 

Swappi and Patrice. Nothing special about this track with Swappi sounding harsh and Patrice her usual self. They did not mix in enough of this song to give one a good feel for the track. 

Orlando Octave and M1, No I did not like this at all... that voice was a bit annoying. I guess I need to listen to the entire song to get a better feel of the track. I will have to wait like everyone else for the release to take int eh songs to leave my  final comments on the songs.

Production Notes:
This Riddim was produced by Precision Productions! I guess this song was also mixed and mastered by the Precision team. The final release will reveal all!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).
"Red Bull Riddim Sampler" -  Precision Productions

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"Coca Cola Riddim" | Produced by Kernal Roberts

This Riddim is not new but in keeping with my attempt to post each 'riddim' produced as a single compilation I present the Coca Cola Riddim for your listening pleasure. 

Now if you like or don't like what you hear please leave some feed back via the comment feature of this post. I really have not had the time to listen to the songs on this Riddim but will do so and eventually post my thoughts. I will continue to post the music as soon as I have uploaded them to my cloud storage site.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Coca Cola Riddim Mix

True Story - Benjai 

All Night - Devon Matthews 

Ketchin It - Lil Bits 

Make Ah Toast - Screws 

Sweetest Wine - Umi Marcano 

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"Woman Power" | Lady Tallish

She owns a hair dressing salon and has the ability to create and style hair fashions with a passion but just about everyone knows that she can also bring it via her sweet vocals inherited from her dad, calypsonian Francis Adams aka Tallish? Indeed her true passion lies in the art-form of calypso!. She has been singing and performing since she was a child.

If you think this is all by chance then think again. Yes her dad sang calypso but then there was the influence of her God Father - a very famous one indeed! She is also the God daughter of one or our greatest ever and the creator of our sweet Soca Music - Lord Shorty aka Ras Shorty I. She has done her share of paying her dues and can now be called Lady Tallish - A Professional Artiste in the Art of Calypso Singing and Performing! If you think that she stands tall just watch her rise to the occasion after teaming up with Kenny!

Franceila Adams Jackson aka "Lady Tallish" - a female calypsonian from the Southern Trinidad who is yet to get her just reward to match her singing prowess has teamed up with master producer Kenny Phillips. This post celebrates their latest effort for Carnival 2012- "Woman Power".

Those whom are interested in seeing the beautiful Lady Tallish perform  should know that she can be seen and heard on stage as a member of the the Revue cast that is located at Wrightson Road in Port of Spain. This is a song that promotes the ability of women to achieve and lead in a male dominated society (so dey say but everyone knows woman is boss). The song provides a glimpse of what young ladies could achieve if they apply themselves - good and realistic/needed vibes for today's society. Why shouldn't they celebrate their achievements? This is a song with a message not one of those so called 'good songs' being promoted on the radio today. Most of those songs promote wining and jamming but this song promotes the role of the woman in society - let's hope we can hear more of it on the radio. The production is a good one - what else do you expect from Kenny? The lyrics are very good and the vocal performance excellent. The music is traditional calypso - do you remember that?  This song and production get the thumbs up!

Production notes:

Today her latest song and first release for Carnival 2012 was released to the public. The song was written by Allan "Blackstone" Thomas and produced by the venerable master producer Mr. Kenny Phillips.

Of course if you want something done the right way you take it and mold it to your liking. That is exactly what Kenny did; the track was mixed and mastered at KMP Music Labs by Kenny Phillips.

The song is presented here for your listening pleasure. Lady Tallish will appear tonight (12.30.2011) on Wack Radio as they present their 48 hours of Soca that starts on Friday mornings. Information for this posting was obtained from articles posted in the Trinidad Express and Trinidad Guardian Newspapers and of course Mr. Kenny Phillips of KMPMusic!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).
"Woman Power" - Lady Tallish

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"Worldz Girlz" (Grey Goose Song) | KES

I recently posted a song by KES and was not entralled by the music or lyrics however this release titled "Worldz Girlz" really got me in the groove - I like this one and highly recommend it!

I guess I was asleep at the wheels and missed the release of this song. Well I have it and will give you my take on it here. So let's go ahead and 'Tawk D Tawk' as we usually don on Trinizagada|Santiwah.

Lyrics - This song talks about what went down in a party. The lyrics are skillfully brought out by Kes Dieffentaller who dis a nice job telling the story in song.

Vocal Performance - Clean and clear and every word is easily understood. The singer's comfort level comes across forcefully and it sounds like they had a lot of fun putting down this tract. This was not work - this was pure fun and that makes for a good vocal performance.

Musicality - This is not Soca! This is new style music.This is Grey Goose music... ahem, I meant Wordz Girlz music. I know they are singing and throwing around the word Soca but this is not Soca but it is musically sound and well done. Come on the beat is sweet and you will complain but dance and groove to the beat!

Originality - This is the Sound of KES the Band. Do you know of any other band on the island sounding like KES? Oh, I see... so there are others making Island Pop music but they cannot sound like KES... need I say more?

Production Notes:

This song was written by 1St. Klase and KES; The production came by way of 1St. Klase. The final cut was mastered by Martin "Mice" Raymond. 

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

"Worldz Girlz" (Grey Goose Song) - KES

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360 riddim | 2012 Soca Riddims By Mr. Spine

These songs are a production of Mr. Spine; the drive to mass produce songs on a riddim seems to be future of the Soca industry (that is if you consider the music produced Soca). The songs are listed here for your entertainment. 

360 RIDDIM (PROD. BY MR. SPINE, HOLY HOUSE PRODUCTIONS) (SOCA 2K12)

Track List:

General Degree – Put It Back

K.Kay – Wuk Up

Lyrikal – Heater

Problem Child – Ah Vybe

R.K.G -So Seductive

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).
360 Riddim Instrumental 

 Put It Back - General Degree

Wuk Up - K.Kay 

Heater - Lyrikal 

Ah Vybe - Problem Child 

So Seductive - R.K.G 

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"Aye Anthem Riddim" | Slaughter Arts Media 2012

This is the year of 'Soca Riddims' and today we take a listen to the Aye Anthem Riddem by Slaughter Arts Media for the Carnival 2012 festival.

Your may have heard some of these songs before but they are presented here as a group because they are all on the Aye Anthem Riddim. I hope you like what you hear.The Photo on the left is that of Ms. Paige who is one of the artistes on this  Riddim. 

Please note that the streaming for these songs (all songs posted on this blog from now on) is coming from a cloud storage site. The streaming may take a few seconds to link to the storage stream site before you hear the music (just trying to change things up a bit).

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).
Aye Anthem - Instrumental
Go DJ - Fya Empress & Mr. Fushion
In my System - Jalena feat. Nzh. Prod.
Freak - Partrice Roberts
Nice & Slow - Ms. Paige
No More War - Sherwin Gardner

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"All I Want" | Jeffrey Peter Biddeau (Peter Levels)

This is music from someone you may not have heard from before. I believe that you will be pleasantly surprised with this voice. However, once again we have  another 'wine' song. This looks like it will be the theme for Carnival 2012. 

However, after listening to the effort, I found myself going hmm. I had to listen to it again (that is a plus); there is something that I like about this singer's voice. He has a really pleasant voice that should keep him relevant in today's fast paced 'new style' music. Now even though this is a 'wine' song the lyrics are on point and tell the story of what he wants for Carnival.

Now here are some thoughts about the singer and the song:

The vocal performance is excellent. This guy's voice is one to remember and pleasant to listen - yes I approve of this singer's vocals. The music has a good feel to it. I would have liked to hear some brass elements in the song but this is the age of computerized music production. This song is a good one and would have benefited from traditional brass elements. Having said that I still like what they did with this one. Now in terms of longevity this one will have a Carnival shelf life simply because of two things... the first is because of the 'wining theme'. What happens after the carnival is over? Who wants to listen to a song about wining when the wining season is over! Secondly and more importantly is the problem of the "Soca Switch". All Carnival music will suffer from the effects of the Soca Switch when 99 percent of the radio stations in Trinidad switch back to Dancehall and R&B music from Ash Wednesday! My advice... stay tuned in to Wack Radio 901 fm out of San Fernando for total local content 24/7!

Notes from the music blast:

The name of the song is "All I Want"; it is a song that was performed and written by Jeffrey Peter Biddeau (Peter Levels). It was produced and mixed by Brennon Val Vergil and mastered by the boys from 'South' aka Precision Productions.

Production Notes:

Produced By Val Musik, Mixed By Val. Mastered By Precision Productions for 2012 Trinidad Carnival.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

All I Want - Jeffrey Peter Biddeau (Peter Levels)

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"Type Ah Wine" | Shal Marshall

Where have you been lately? Carnival 2012 will go down as music madness year with all these new songs already released. Just think about it, we are still in 2011! OK, so you are not feeling it you say and the Island Pop thing is driving you crazy because you want Soca and this new age music is not doing it for you... well hold on for a second.

Today I am posting a track that will surely have its say for this Carnival especially in the fetes and clubs across Trinidad and Tobago. Now go figure this one, it is not from one of the established 'so called big name singers' but from a jock who is making a name for himself as a bonafide singer. Shal Marshall and Super Jigga TC have crossed the line and are making music that you can groove too all night.

The song I am posting tonight is titled "Type Ah Wine" and it comes to you from Shal Marshall.This song is nice and will definitely become one of the hit songs for the upcoming carnival. I like it and so too will you!

I know what you will say... gosh another wining song! Well it is Carnival and sometimes you have to go with the flow. Yes it is another wining song but you can live with the lyrics for this one. Shals vocals are crisp and clear and easily understood. The music is sweet and catchy. This song should get serious airplay on all the radio stations that will soon turn on the Carnival switch (what ah shame eh) for the coming festivities. We have more than enough music to have total local programming all year round (Hey Wack radio is doing it). Thumbs up to Shal Marshall and his "Type Ah Wine"... I like this one!

Production notes:

This is a GBM Produced track with lead vocal coming from Shal Marshall.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Shal Marshall - "Type Ah Wine" (2012 Soca)

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"TAGGING ALONG" | Kes & Timeka Marshall

This is new music from the band called Kes but this time they have enlisted the help of one sexy songstress. whose name is Tamika Marshall, to make you want more and most importantly have you "Tagging Along". 

It is strange that I am hearing so many people complaining about the new music. Some like the change and are into the Island Pop music introduced by Madmen Productions but I am also seeing many complaints about this new music style. On islandmix the verdict is not good. People are saying that they are already fed up of the new music style and are longing to hear some traditional Soca music.

I think that this song by Kes and Tamika is different because we have a lot of Sax in the music. Then again it is the Sax Man Riddim! Well we all can't have the same taste in music but this one is all right...  not sensational but good enough to give a listen. I don't know if this will be a hit but the music is compelling and that is good enough for me. 

From the Production Team:

"Kees Dieffenthaller and, the Jamaican based but Guyanese born sultry songstress, Timeka Marshall, tease and flirt their way across the dance floor with "Tagging Along," which was written by Kees, Emmanuel Rudder, and Steve Sealy Jr."

Production Notes:

PRODUCED, MIXED, AND MASTERED BY MADMEN PRODUCERS

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Tagging Along - Kees Dieffenthaller and Timeka Marshall

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"So & So" | Bunji Garlin

Sometimes I wonder how these guys come up with the name for these riddims and this one is special and somewhat confusing... it is called the "40Ft Riddim"! Having said that I must say that I like this one but then again I do like to listen to Bunji Garlin. He is different and his stamp is always on the music somewhat like Shadow's music - you can't confuse the sound with anybody else.
Now this 'So and So' sound like someone chanting 'so and so' after having some serious 'sours' (as in alcohol).  The lyrics may not be clear and if you are not accustomed to Bunji you may have some problems understanding his vocals. However the musicality of this song takes you to a place where the lyrics and Bunji's vocals all seem to fall in the right place.

The music is different and the techno sounds finally fit into the Carnival mood - it feels like an early morning j'ouvert morning jam session as you and your friends are leaving the fete to head to the streets. I like this song and the work that Madmen have done. This one has a good feel to it and should get its fair share of airplay as we get closer to Carnival. This is a strange time for the music of Trnidad. The music has changed and the productions are flooding the Internet and radio stations. It is easy to forget a song with so many new releases coming daily. However, this one should have some longevity especially for this carnival celebrations. 

From the producers:

"MadMen Producers continue their pulsating flow into the Carnival 2012 season with the hypnotic 40FT Riddim. Taking the entrancing sound of Jouvert percussion and mingling it with futuristic Techno, MadMen masterfully show off their illustrious expertise in creating the sound that is uniquely Island Pop.

The ever madderific iGarlin shows off his playful party side in "So & So," by taking the listener into the heart of a fete and deep into the soul of the merriment that is Carnival with his contribution.

Yet another MadMen Riddim that was showcased live online, it is one that fans everywhere have been anxiously awaiting. © Mystie Thongs"

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

40FT Riddim Bunji Garlin - "So & So"

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"Watching You" | Keegan Taylor

This is new music from Precision Production. The song is titled 'Watching Yuh' and is a fast paced song for the young at heart! The team at Precision are about blazing a new trail that others will have no choice but to follow if they want to remain in the game. This effort is a fast paced track that could be considered a power soca offering but feels like a road runner track.
This is music for the young at heart and for those with young hearts. If you think that you can keep up with this music then walk with your electrolytes to replenish your energy stock because this is serious speed. It is something different and with 2012 a few days away I expect the serious music, the Power play music to be released for your listening pleasure.

This is one of many to come from Precision. The competition will be fierce and it will be interesting to see which Production Company comes out at the top when it is all said and done. In the mean time here is the latest release from Keegan Taylor and Precision Production reminding you that somebody is "Watching Yuh"!

Here are the release notes from Precision:

"After a two year hiatus from the local music industry, Keegan Taylor returns to the soca scene for Carnival 2K12 with an energetic and pulsating track that is sure to have masqueraders and fete goers alike “ pelting” waist this season. “Watching Yuh” written by Keegan Taylor and produced by the dynamic and trendsetting team Precision Productions. This track is a definite Soca Monarch contender and marks Keegan’s return to the Carnival with a bang since we last saw him in 2009 on Synergy TV’s Soca Stars. This track also marks Precision Productions first fast paced offering for Carnival 2K12, again leading the pack, in every aspect of the game, including power Soca songs this year."

Here are the production notes for this track:

The lyrics were Written by Keegan Taylor; the song was produced, mixed and mastered by Precision Productions. Additional vocals by Tricia Hamilton.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Keegan Taylor - Watching Yuh

Keegan Taylor - Watching Yuh TV

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"Reveling" | Machel Montano, 2012

If you love Machel then you will love this song. However, now everyone will be enamored by the new sound of Machel. This one has a Jab riddim to it and could have some impact come carnival day.
The song has a story but this story may not be what most of the revellers are expecting from the King of Soca. As you can tell the music is heading in a different direction - do you like it? The name of the song is "Reveling" and is posted here for your entertainment. The vocal for this song were strong and typical of a Machel Montano song; the lyrics spoke of the revelers and their readiness to play mass and enjoy every moment of this joyful festive event called Carnival.

The lyrics are on track and deals with the topic of enjoying the festivities.  Now regarding the music, there is nothing special about the music and it can be considered sub par and lacking in depth.  This song will not see much airplay because there is nothing really catchy about it to hook the listener. I don't see this one getting much airplay especially after the carnival is done. This is a jab beat and there is nothing original about that. All in all it is a typical Machel production and worthy of an album filler role!

Produced By Andrew 'Hitz' Phillip & Daniel 'Shac De Burg' Burgess. Written By Machel Montano & Andrew 'Hitz' Phillips. Mixed By Andrew 'Hitz' Phillip & Martin 'Mice' Raymond. Mastered By Martin 'Mice' Raymond.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Machel Montano - Reveling 2012

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"Bacchanal" | Rondell De Artist

Early this afternoon (Trini Time) I had the pleasure of speaking to Rondell De Artist who was in the Wack studio with DJ Capshon. He was in the studio to debut his new song titled "Bacchanal". I was curious about the name of the song and the naming of the riddim... "Horny Goat Weed Riddim". The singing was about De Bacchanal but the name of the song is officially 'Bacchanal'; the 'name of the rhythm, 'Horny Goat Weed Riddim', came from the music producer! Let us know if you like the song!

The song and beat got life from last j'ouvert in san Fernando. Rondell got the vibe and called the producer and told him that they needed to do something with the rhythm and it came to be know as the "Horny Goat Weed Riddim". Now you have the opportunity to listen to the song and decide for yourself if it is worthy of a good j'ouvert mash food jam after partying all night.

Vocally the singing is strong and the pronunciation is clean and clean. You definitely hear what the story is all about without any doubt or questions like, "what did he say?"

Lyrically the artist is telling his story about his j'ouvert morning experience and if you listen well and use your imagination you can place yourself in that jab experience. The lyrics are clear and easy to understand.

Musicality is always important. This one is a j'ouvert morning horn and riddim mash down. If you like iron and the sound of the horn then the music is just what you want to hear.

Replay addiction for this one on the radio stations could be very poor especially after the carnival. As a run up to the carnival this song should get some serious airplay but as the carnival closes so too will the rotation for this song. That is just the nature of the beast regarding the sensibilities of the programmers in Trinidad.

originality... this is not an original beat but it does have a slight twist to the jab riddim. Give them marks for taking a traditional rhythm and making something sweet with it.

Some Production notes:

The track was produced by Osei 'Noble Vox' James; the lyrics were Written by: Rondell Renwick. The song was 'Mixed & Mastered' by Hide N Seek Records.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Bacchanal - Rondell De Artist

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"Family Life" - Rikki Jai

This is a Classic Song that will be requested for years to come!

I have been posting new music since October for the upcoming carnival festival of 2012 with songs that have been the talk of the town for a few days then nothing. Well today I am posting a track that you will play over and over again years from today - can you say that about the new music that you are going crazy over and can't wait to hear?

OK, this is a song that was needed for some time. That means that lyrically the song is on the positive side of the fence. The message is real and so appealing for today's society... a timely addition with a sweet calypso refrain to back up these strong lyrics.

Vocally we have a very controlled performance from the Jai master. Rikki Jai under the watchful eyes of the Kung Fu Master of Calypso production in Trinidad, Mr. Kenny Phillips, produced a beautiful musical journey that will keep us travelling and singing it for years to come.

Musicality is essential for any good song to get constant airplay and this one is overloaded with sweet traditional brass and calypso rhythms that are painfully lacking from the young producers in the industry today. This is a masterpiece that only one Kenny Phillips could produce.

Now in terms of getting airplay and cries of 'kaiso boi' this song will not be played by many radio stations in Trinidad because they want a fast paced rocking music that this one does not provide. However, I guarantee you that years from now this will be one of the most requested songs on radio!

What can I say about originality... this is a classic calypso sung by an experienced singer who really surprised me with this offering. Kudos to the writing and production team for this song.

The lyrics are wonderful the music stands on its own and the verdict is totally positive on all fronts for this one. What else can I say? Oh yes, Congratulations on a job well done. Best song for the season to date!

Some production notes on the song:

This song was Written by Samraj Jaimunjal, Franz Lambkin and Kenny Phillips. It was produced by Kenny Phillips for KMP Music Lab.
I was very surprised to see the name of Kenny Phillips as a writer for this song and could it be his first effort as a co-song writer? I doubt it but it would be interesting to know. The man has done a wonderful job with the music and just maybe the folks at Precision Production could learn something from this production.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Family Life - Rikki Jai | KMP Music Studio

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"Wining Addiction Official Video" | Shurwayne Winchester

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

Now you know what they say about Tiny winey girls - they go kill yuh! Well hello can someone give the 411 on the young lady in dat white pants? Now that young lady has a 'wining addiction' that could put a man in his grave.

Listen this is one video that I really enjoyed watching and listening to the music. I liked the scenes the background colors and the Caribbean scene with the not only moving to the tropical winds but to the wining addiction of Shurwayne's song. Gosh the girl in the black tights wicket too I tell you. Back to the young lady in the white tights... she is cute and when she went down to the ground and wined - I was addicted - just like that!

Look, the video was well done and the song itself is a nice departure from the typical music that we have been hearing recently. Shurwaynes vocals are typical Shurwayne... however, if you are not into his top level voice you may not like it but this is one song that only shurwayne can sing so well.

The lyrics speak for itself - it is all about the young lady having a wining addiction. The lyrics state what the video show... simple as that.

Musically this song has it all and then some. The song opens with a very strong base line. The introduction of the song was a nice touch in the creation of the video. There is a slamming baseline that kicks in that hits at the core of your stomach. There is a background ping pong in this song that is finally complimented by a tenor pan at the end of the song. I thought it was well done. The song has dancability written to it from the start to the end... don't you just love it?

Do I think that this one will get the airplay it deserves? Hell yes it speaks about what every hotblodded Trini male loves 'women wining' and the song is so musically sweet. This song will be on rotation and the video will help give it additional life.

There is nothing original about a song that tells us about women wining. However, the video is so nice I still have to give them serious marks for originality just because of the lady in te white tights. Lady yuh sweet, sweet and yes so sweet!
Wining Addiction - Shurwayne Winchester

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"Spirit of Carnival" | A.J. Ventura Feat. Skinny Fabulous

"The Spirit of Carnival" - it does have a nice sound to it when it is said about the upcoming carnival celebrations. Everyone is anticipating the upcoming festival and a song that speaks about the 'Spirit of Carnival' will get some attention if the lyrics are on track and the music is appealing - so what about this offering from A.J. Ventura that features the voice of  Skinny Fabulous?

Lyrically the song is on track - it tells the story about the music and dance and the festival of bacchanal and fun. I can't find any fault with the lyrics because he tells us what Carnival is all about.

Vocally Skinny's voice and style stands out in this song and contrasts with the smooth style of A.J. Ventura - they compliment each other well in this song.

Musically this offering is filled with music that steps out of the box of what is considered normal for calypso, soca or even the new island pop genre. It is musically strong with a solid drum riddim anchoring the song.

Now when it comes to airplay or how this song will fit into a radio station's rotation is difficult to pinpoint at this time because the music is different and we know how the established singers rule on certain radio stations. I don't know if this one will get regular airplay in Trinidad and Tobago. This is not because the artistes are not Trinidadians but because the music is not what the Trinis are accustomed to hearing. 

Now when it comes to originality I have to say (for my listening ability) this is different and I can't recall hearing anything like it before. Pardon my ignorance if I am wrong but the 'small islanders' music is not played that much on the Trini radio stations. It is only because I now live in the US that I am hearing all these different music from the other islands. As a result I have to give full marks for originality to this song. 

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Spirit Of Carnival A.J. Ventura Feat. Skinny Fabulous

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"Delete" | Roxanne "Roxxy" Webster

This song was done on the "Swagga Riddim"; it was produced by Marcus Mark for 'Yung Blood Productions' in the British Virgin Islands. Soca music is the lifeblood of West Indian carnivals and is not just the lifeblood of TnT like most Trinidadians tend to believe. 

The music produced by the smaller islands are just as good and in some cases better than some of what is coming out of Trinidad and Tobago.We tend to believe that we have the best music in the region - hello, pay attention to the music coming from the other islands not just Barbados or St. Vincent!

This offering from the small island of Anguilla is a quality track that deserves to be heard on the radio stations. If you don't hear it played in Trinidad call in to the radio stations and request the song. Tell them you heard it on Trinizagda and that you love the song!

The music was recorded by Terrance "Daddy Hodgie" Hodge-Carty at Evolution Studios in the beautiful island of Anguilla. The lead Vocals that you you will fall in love with come from Roxanne Webster from sweet Anguilla. The lyrics were written by the combined team of Terrance "Daddy-Hodgie" Hodge-Carty & Roxanne Webster.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Delete - Roxanne Roxxy Webster

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"Soca Never Die" | Yannick Hooper

This is new music from young Bajan Soca singer Yannick Hooper. We know it but he wants you to know what the rest of the World will soon come to know - "Soca Never Die".  If you like what you are hearing please lend your support to the artiste by leaving feedback via the comment link for this post. What do you think about his vocals, the music and tell us if this one will get regular radio rotation or will be just another run of the mill Soca effort. Enjoy the vibes!

Some production notes: 

This track was produced by Jamal Cobham; the Pan playing was rendered by Terry Ricardo Arthur. The bass was played by Dario 'Mr Red' Walron with the  background vocals by Toni'Elle' Stewart & Brett Linto. The track was  mastered by Shawn Layn and  written by Yannick Hooper 2.0. 

From his Facebook Biography: 

Yannick Hooper is an eighteen year old that has had an unconditional love for calypso music from birth. This love has greatly been influenced by the early exposure to calypso music by his father David Hooper. From early childhood Yannick has been exposed to the band atmosphere contributing greatly to his interest in calypso especially in the area of performing.Read the rest of the article here: Yannick Hooper/facebook bio.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Soca Never Die - Yannick Hooper

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"More Gal" | Deylon Reid

Straight off the bat, this one can be considered a square cut in cricket - a sweet shot if you can execute it. This song has some nice lyrics and a genuine effort to 'tell you something'. 

In term of the vocals, I don't think you will have any reason to be critical. Deylon's voice is smooth and the recording is clean. One can understand everything hat he says unlike some artistes. 

The music is good, nothing out of the ordinary buy clean and tight - I like it. Most of the music today is produced on computers and this one even though it is clean could do with some 'brass' to light up the song even more.

The music industry in Trinidad is pumping out loads of music and one would expect to be hearing these songs on the radio but unfortunately this only happens during the carnival season unless you are a follower of Wack radio out of San Fernando that plays local content 24/7. Well what I want to say is that even if this one stands a chance of  constant rotation the culture of the Trinidad radio stations will not permit this to happen  - what a shame.

Production Notes:

This one was produced By Dnyce & Val Musik; it was Mixed By Val and Mastered By Precision Productions.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

"More Gal" - Deylon Reid 2012

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"Pressure" | Farmer Nappy

These Soca singers like to sing about wining on women and in the case of this song Farmaer says he 'give she pressure'. Well what man you know who can give a wining bumpa pressure? 

Hey it is worthwhile to remember this my friends, they can provide mental pressure and you may be able to deal with it but don't fool youself into thinking that you can deal with a wining (whining) bumpa - you are only fooling yourself - Farmer we know better!

Now stop for one minute and take notice about something that this song has that most of the new music is lacking... horns (we are talking about the trumpet, trombone - back to brass basics. 

Now I did notice that the recording of the brass was done by Precision Productions at KMP Music Labs. Can this be the input of one Kenny Phillips - this is back to basics and a move that could only come from someone who knows what the new Soca was missing!

This track had input by many hands (take note about the recording of the brass music for this one - Precision Production are in everything good that is happening with the music):

Written By J.Bishop/D.Henry/P.Noel/S.Galt

Produced By Da Reel Deal Productions Scott Galt

Backing Vocals Indra Rudder & Scott Galt

Bass Nicholas Brancker

Trumpet By Michael Lindsay

Trombone By Patrick Spicer

Brass Recorded By Precision Productions @ KMP Music Lab

Mixed By Andrew Denny @ Drew's Crib

Mastered By: Will Quinnell @ Sterling Sound

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Pressure - Farmer Nappy 2012

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"Super Soca Riddim" | Black Shadow Records/Various

This Riddim is good; I like the vibe and some of the songs are really catchy. However, I have to be careful with the posting of the music here. The first posting is a mix of the various artistes singing their songs mixed into one 'twelve minute mix-down' that provides a glimpse of all the songs on the Riddim. I am absolutely certain that you will find a song or song to like on this riddim. The Vincy Soca Artistes are well represented on this Riddim.
Now if you look below you will see a listing of the songs on the Riddim with a radio version and a Raw version. I have the songs but will not post the raw versions. I have listed them so that you know they exist but I will only present the radio versions on the blog. Think green/I really meant to say clean!

SUPER SOCA RIDDIM - (RAW & CLEAN +INSTRUMENTAL)-BLACK SHADOW RECORDS

TRACKLIST:

BIG RED - GETTING PU$$Y-(GETTING LUCKY)- RADIO

BIG RED - GETTING PU$$Y - RAW

COBRA - WINE DAT - RADIO

COBRA - WINE DAT - RAW

KEVIN LYTTLE - HOT GIRLS AND ALCOHOL

PROBLEM CHILD - INNA BED

SHAL MARSHALL - HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

SKINNY FABULOUS - MAD PEOPLE

TROY REMY - WINE LIKE A VIRGIN

VERSION - SUPER SOCA RIDDIM - BLACK SHADOW RECORD

I am sorry but I have to say this... Kevin Lyttle's voice is annoying. This high pitched voice just does not do it for me. Hot Girls and Alcohol is a nice song but I would prefer to hear it sung by someone else... man his voice in annoying!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Super Soca Riddim Mix 2012

BIG RED -GETTING PU$$Y - (GETTING LUCKY)- RADIO

COBRA - WINE DAT - RADIO

KEVIN LYTTLE - HOT GIRLS AND ALCOHOL

PROBLEM CHILD - INNA BED

SHAL MARSHALL - HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

SKINNY FABULOUS - MAD PEOPLE

TROY REMY - WINE LIKE A VIRGIN

VERSION - SUPER SOCA RIDDIM - TROYTON - BLACK SHADOW

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"Sound De Horn" | Blaxx

Tonight is not the night... well as far as I am concerned I just don't feel these songs that I posted today. The Jadel and Patrice songs I see as failures but this one has good lyrics but there is something that I don't like about the presentation of the lyrics. Blaxx sounds like he is reaching with his voice for this song. He does not sound relaxed and to be honest he sounds like he is at the top of his voice throughout this song.

The music is nice and the hook to 'sound de horn' is nice but this is not one of his (Blaxx) better singing efforts. This one gets a pass even though I have some reservations about the singers vocals.  Do you think that I am off base with this one? What is your opinion? Please leave your comments with the post and I will ensure that they are published. 

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Sound De Horn - Blaxx(Sansousi Riddim) (Soca 2012)

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"Horn Pass" | Patrice Roberts

This song has a fast paced Soca Riddim to it but the lyrics are not appealing at all. This song will not go anywhere... period. This is not one to get an encore. Now the drum riddim could get some credits with better lyrics. This one was produced and written by Kernal Robert/produced by Rama Studios.

Now don't get me wrong the music is crazy fast and quite a few of Kernal and Patrice followers will love the efforts for this song. However, the lyrics were not too clever... come on now, "horn pass?" Don't we have enough kankalang in the country during carnival time when both men and women get into the 'horning game'.

Do we need a song that tells the other partner to grant a 'horn pass'. Lord they are not easy at all. I don't give the lyrics a pass but the music and drum riddim has some potential.

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Horn Pass - Patrice Roberts 2012

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"Tumble" | Jadel 2012

This is a typical wining song that you may or may not like. It is one of the run of the mill songs that after listening to it the first time it will not make you want to download it to your mp3 player or even flinch when you hear it played on the radio or at some fete. I am sorry but this one does not do anything for me - I am not impressed!

Now this is just my opinion and after listening to the song you may feel differently about  it. That is fine; if you think I was off base then leave a comment supporting the efforts of Jadel with this 'Tumble" track. I am sure that the production team would love to hear from you especially if you can provide some positive feed back!

This song was produced & written By Kernal Roberts/RAMA Studios; it was  mixed by Jean Marc Gittens of RAMA Studios and  mastered by Madmen Productions!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Tumble - Jadel 2012

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"Roll It (Roll Yuh Bumpa) | The Remix

This is Hypasounds Feat. Vybz Kartel | A Sound Lion HD Remix! Gyal Roll it ... Roll yuh bumpa right back on Trini Lion! This is one remix that you are sure to enjoy!

I posted this song simply because it is a remix. I was pleasantly surprised when one of my very favorite lady friend Gail (from my days in the Wack Radio Shout Box) left a Facebook comment regarding the title of the song. 

Oh yes she went there suggesting that I liked the song simply it was about "Bumpa" and better yet "Rolling Bumpas too". Well to answer Gail... yes I like a nice 'bumpa' and if it is one that can roll well then that is a sight for sore eyes indeed.

 However, in this case the song was posted because it is a very nice remix and as you can tell the remix, when it is done right is just as appealing as a really nice rolling 'bumpa'... ent Gailos!

Please be advised that the music is presented here for your listening pleasure and for promotional purposes only ("Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976). Lend me your ears... Enjoy!

♫ Please press the play button (below) to listen (small triangle in circle).

Hypasounds ft. Vybz Kartel - Roll It (Roll Yuh Bumpa) Sound Lion HD Remix

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