LOCAL NEWS
SKINNY BANTON ‘HUMBLED’ BY SALTFISH
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he phrase “Soak It Good” has quickly become one of the most popular phrases that is now synonymous with the preparation of Saltfish. The man responsible for this recent association is Carriacou/ Grenada based artiste Skinny Banton. Making its rounds on the airwaves throughout the world among Caribbean natives is his hit single ‘Soak It Good’ which has been responsible for sending a number of saltfish lovers and enthusiasts into frenzy. By now most of our readers should be familiar with this song that is being highly embraced. While some may argue that the words do very little for them they are unable to deny the infectiousness of the rhythm. As Skinny Banton continues to remain quiet and allow his song to create havoc worldwide, ET&T Magazine was able to catch up with him to get an idea of his schedule and success thus far.
The artiste who was in New York City during the time of the interview shared that he has been seriously involved in music for some ten (10) years having dabbled in Reggae, Dancehall and Soca. As he shared that other than the Caribbean the song has been doing well throughout the USA and Europe he said, “It’s a great feeling to see the music being appreciated by others.” Admitting that he still has a lot of work to do, Ban-
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ton is “Humbled and thankful for every opportunity” he has received to date. Recently, the artiste has performed in Tobago, London, New York, Tortola and St. Vincent among others and has scheduled bookings in Boston, Miami, Texas and Canada to name a few. Looking ahead to Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival, Banton has confirmed that he will be present and is “Looking forward to all the opportunities that are coming his way.” He is thankful to all the DJ’s and radio personalities who have been playing and supporting his song and advised that they look out for others that have been released and would be in the near future. He shared that his songs ‘Passion Fruit’ and ‘Lifetime Tabanka’ would be given an extra push in coming weeks and in a bid to penetrate the market in Trinidad and Tobago. Banton is also exploring the possibilities available for him to work with Trinidad
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based producers for the upcoming season. As far as future plans are concerned, his response; “To continue to tell stories through music” was all that he wanted to give. To find Skinny Banton - Instagram @SkinnyBanton - Twitter @ SkinnyBanton - Facebook @ SkinnyBanton.
AMANDA CHEDU WINS FACE OF T&T 2014!
BEAUTY TO HELP BRAND TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CARNIVAL
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s. Amanda Chedu emerged the winner of this year’s Face of T&T competition at the Grand Finale Showcase, held at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad on Saturday 13th September 2014. The first runner-up was Avionne Gloudon, and Gabrielle Solomon of St. Augustine earned the second runner-up position. Hailing from Diego Martin, Amanda is a 26 year-old teacher who holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics. Currently, she is pursuing studies in Film and Video Production at the University of the West Indies and YTEPP. The adjudicators for the Face of T&T finale - Deputy Mayor Keron Valentine, Brand Manager Lisa Guichard, Beauty Queen & Brand Ambassador Avionne Mark, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago Barry Padar-
ath and Intercultural Communications Specialist Suzanne Clarke - were wowed by each of the Finalists' confident attitude and astounding beauty displayed on stage. Nevertheless, it was Amanda's warm, assertive approach and her effortless ability to engage a large audience that impressed the most. Amanda will have a full schedule ahead of her for the next year, as she will now become the Face of all promotional campaigns for L'Oreeal Paris - Trinidad & Tobago. With her win, Ms. Chedu has also been named an official Carnival Brand Ambassador for the National Carnival Commission of Trinidad & Tobago (NCC), and will represent the organization at various events in the lead up to Carnival 2015. Caribbean Airlines will also reward her win with round trip
FoTT 2014 winner Amanda Chedu models an enseble from Honamic Designs
tickets for two, heading to an island destination, in addition to spa treatments courtesy Hyatt Spa Esencia. She will also receive prizes from Caribbean Belle Magazine, Stetchers Fine Gift Stores featuring jewelry from Swarovski and Anoushka, Dollz Beauty Spa,
Peter Elias, Restaurant, Honamic Designs, Dominic Hutch Swim & Resort Collection and Progressive Dental. Overwhelmed by the incredible outpouring of support from family, friends and the general public, Amanda explains: “I have had tremendous support that has inspired growth and character development throughout this experience. The Executive has really helped me to embrace my pride to be a Trinbagonian woman, and the (Top Ten) ladies have always been supportive of each other's dreams. It was a growth process that we undertook as a unit and I am thrilled to have shared in this experience.” Amanda is humbled by the opportunity and ecstatic for her victory, the responsibilities for which she is very ready and excited to undertake as the Face of T&T 2014!
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SEPTEMBER, 2014 • ET&T
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LOCAL CARIBBEAN MUSIC GROWS NEWS INCREASINGLY GLOBAL W
ho Let The Dogs Out? You may be surprised that this song that was featured in the 2000 movie Rugrats in Paris was actually released by Anslem Douglas for 1998 Carnival. It was a proud moment for Trinis, as it went on to become one of the highest-selling singles of the decade and win Best Dance Recording for the 2001 Grammys. Since then, Caribbean music has become increasingly influential on the global stage. But the Caribbean has participated in the global music industry since the 1920s with the recording and export of genres like calypso, merengue, son, reggae, zouk, salsa, soca, and dancehall. In 2001, Dr Nurse for the Caribbean Export Agency said that “The story of Caribbean music is a remarkable one. For this relatively small geographical region, ravaged by centuries of European colonial domination and long looked upon as a region of “colonial backwaters,” “deracinated” peoples, and societies that had supposedly produced nothing indigenous of any value, has over and over brought forth unique and vibrant musical creations to which the entire world can dance.” The Caribbean enjoys a competitive capability in cultural production. For example, Jamaica is still the major source for musical innovation in reggae despite the spread of it globally. It is recognized as one of the major genres of music and has gained recognition from international music awards such as the Grammys. In 2014, Best Reggae Album went to Jamaican born Ziggy Marley even though Snoop Dogg was the category favorite. Other nominees included Beres Hammond and Sizzla. T&T with its calypso, soca and steelband has exported musical genres through the growth of the T&T styled Carnival in the English Speaking Caribbean and cities such as New York and London. Similarly, Merengue from the Dominican Republic is one of the key sub-genres that have contributed to the recent explosion in Latin music on the world music scene. 2
Not to mention Caribbean artistes who have become dynamic and influential, with global followings. Names like Mighty Sparrow, Kassav, Celia Cruz, Ruben Blades, Juan Luis Guerra, and the late, great Bob Marley. Machel Montano’s career spans over 30 years and includes numerous collaborations with Caribbean counterparts and international stars like Mohombi, G-Unit, Doug E. Fresh, Pitbull and Busta Rhymes. In 2014, he collaborated with well-
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known EDM artists, Major Lazer and Diplo to create "Sound Bang.” Barbadian born Rihanna has shot to fame since 2003 and won for Best Urban Contemporary Album at the 2014 Grammys. In August 2014, Soca stars Ian “Bunji Garlin” Alvarez and wife Fay Ann Lyons were in the US for their second appearance on the popular BET programme, 106 & Park. It was a special edition celebrating Caribbean Carnival that also featured Jamaican dancehall
performers like Elephant Man, Wayne Marshall and Gyptian. Alvarez and his wife have been on tour in Europe performing for eager audiences in Berlin, Norway, Belgium and London. In Rolling Stone magazine, the August 21 review by Julianne Escobedo Shepherd gave Bunji’s album “Differentology” three stars out of five. Shepherd said “For the first time in ages, Trinidadian soca—a percussive, often high-speed, calypsoinfluenced Caribbean music—has a new global star in the making… Bunji Garlin, a stylish tenor with a mean hook game, scored a kinetic smash with 2012’s Differentology, which stayed in rotation for a full year, placing him as the clear successor to soca’s previous crossover king, Machel Montano.” She stated that “Garlin’s debut exemplifies what it means to be a differentologist: The singer blends dancehall, EDM and even trap into his sound, without ever seeming like he’s trying too hard. It’s soca for the Spotify generation.” But a major leap for Caribbean music came in April 2014 when US-based iTunes Music Store, a division of Apple Inc. announced that both calypso and soca have been designated as official musical genres on its Internet marketplace, along with three dozen other genres under the heading “World” music. Previously, songs were categorized under “reggae,” “Latin” or “Caribbean.” Trinidad-based music publisher and promoter Alvin Daniell and award-winning filmmaker and bestselling author Dr Geoffrey Dunn who worked together on the award-winning film “Calypso Dreams” vowed to focus their energies on generating similar recognition from several other internet music outlets, including All Music, Zune Marketplace, eMusic, Yahoo!, Amazon and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences in the US —producers of The Grammys. However, despite the Caribbean music industry’s perceived success, there have been longstanding problems in relation to airplay, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, copyright protection and royalty collections.
LOCAL NEWS B
CROP OVER 2014 IN REVIEW
arbados' Crop Over summer festival, which was once a slave celebration that marked the end of the sugar crop harvest, has now grown into a world-class Caribbean Carnival that can rival T&T’s Greatest Show on Earth. 2014 was no different, with a fantastic display of color, costumes, music, art and food that reflected the island’s “saucy spirit.” On June 28th, Crop Over 2014 was officially launched with the Opening Gala and Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes. The launch also saw the crowning of the King and Queen of the Festival, the most productive male and female cane cutters of the season. Both 14 time winners, Grantley Hurley cut and piled over 160 tonnes and Judy Cumberbatch, 75 tonnes. This opening followed the hype that was created for the season in May/June with Pre Crop Over Parties, Kadooment Band Fetes, Costume Launches, Crop Over Fetes, Calypso Tents, Mini Carnivals and After-work Limes. In July the heat was turned up. On Sunday 27th July, at the most popular Soca Royale, first time winner Gorg was crowned Party Monarch with “Meh Rum.” After his win, he stated that “This is one of the first years I actually didn’t do a 160, which is a fast soca, but definitely next year I am bringing that back for sure.” Sweet Soca Monarch was given to Biggie Irie’s “Pankatang.” Speaking about his 2015 plans, Biggie Irie said, “What I’ll do next year is enter the Party Monarch competition and defend the Sweet Soca crown but I am going to leave the Pic-O-De-Crop out for a couple of years.” He placed fourth in the latter category this year. Friday 1st August, the start of big Crop Over weekend, saw the finals of Pic-O-De-Crop, a fusion of calypso and social commentary. Eight finalists competed at a tension filled Kensington Stadium for the title of Calypso Monarch. Ian Webster placed first with “Karaoke Song: Barbados is still my home.” After the Pic-O-De-Crop finals, Foreday Morning Jump 4
Biggie Irie
Up was held in the early hours of Saturday morning. The Foreday Morning Jam Tune/Tune of the Road was a tie between Gorg with “Meh Rum” and Porgie & Murdah with “Ben up.” On Crop Over Saturday, the 3 day Bridgetown Market, the biggest cultural street fair in the Caribbean, began. It consisted of booths selling food, beverages and local arts and crafts. Patrons were treated to live calypso and soca as they browsed through the stalls. On Saturday, T&T brought its flavor to Crop Over as well, with Scorch’s Bim Combo event, which included a Cooler Cruise and Scorch Jam, an all-inclusive breakfast party. Sunday night was Cohobblopot, one of the biggest and most exciting events of the season, a huge carnival-like show with members of the Kadooment bands displaying their elaborate and stunning costumes, coupled with entertainment from popular artistes and bands. Monday was Grand Kadooment Day, the culmination of the Crop Over Festival. At this daytime street parade, a “convoy of costumes, craziness, fireworks and rum,” the Tune-Of-The-Crop (Road March) was given to Porgie & Murdah with “Ah Feeling.” Carnival bands were judged on a number of categories, but Best Large Band of the Year went to Gywneth Squires’ “Controversee 2014,” Best Small Band of the Year was Betty West’s “Kaiso Tents In De Festival,” Best Party Band was “Nirvana: This is Kadooment” by Holder/Corbin and Best Overseas Band went to Guadeloupe. Kiddies were not left out, with the Junior Kadooment and Junior Calypso Monarch. Best band
ET&T • SEPTEMBER, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
Porgie and Murda
going to Kevin Small’s presentation of “Fifth Element Kiddies Band: The Climate and We” while Raanan “Ranaan” Hackett took the Monarch in the 8-12 category with “No Daddy” and Samantha “Sammy G” Greaves earned it in the 13-18 category with “My Tribute.” The Crop Over revelry ended on August 4th, after a 12 week period of festivities. Locals and visitors alike look forward to
Crop Over 2015, to once again experience all aspects of Barbadian culture, a mixture of African survival heritage and Western modern culture. International actor Riley, who played mas with Krave the Band said, “This compares to everything. My father’s Bajan. My mother’s Trini. I have done Carnival everywhere – Miami, Brooklyn, Trinidad, this is my first Crop Over; I never felt more complete.”
LOCAL LONDON-BASED TRINI HOPES TO CHANGE NEWS LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY
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o call twenty-three year old songbird Jerry-Lee David merely a talented singer is like simply saying Lionel Messi can kick a ball. There’s so much more to the young talent than we can give her credit for without sounding too biased. The Sando born songstress hails from a musical family and has been doing her thing musically since the age of 7. With further tutelage from Peter Lockhart and Jessel Murray the classically trained, Jazz-styled vocalist has been able to successfully explore several aspects of T&T’s musical arts. However, her work behind the scenes may end up being what defines her when all is said and done. The former ASJA Girls and Bishop Anstey high school student is now in England where she is completing her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Westminster.
Her specialty is Entertainment and Media Law and once she completes the program she will be only the second known local entertainment lawyer in the country. She plans to use her expertise in the field and her musical experience to develop the state of entertainment in the country. Jerry-Lee believes local artistes need direction and transparent advice from professionals if we are to change our entertainment landscape from a mere hustle to an actual industry. She also believes that talent alone can’t get you to the pinnacle. Instead, she posits that entertainers should have solid plans for success along with adequate backup plans. “You should not have a plan A and B, but a C and D as well,” she quipped. Her law background opens her up to a lot of marketing knowledge and opportunities which she
cannot wait to share upon her return. Previous to her trip to the UK, Jerry-Lee was lead vocalist in the acoustic band Halogen Sunset which also features guitarists Damir Ali and Aaron Low Chew Tung. David says she will try to open doors for them abroad even as she pursues her law certification. Jerry-Lee also spent a great deal of time being involved in theatre as a star in some Broadway style productions. She thinks that time helped with her singing and on stage recovery talents and she urges singers to explore the opportunity of plays to enhance their skillset. While music is her first love, Jerry-Lee says she will also feel satisfied with a career in law. She is undoubtedly, articulate enough to do both, but time will tell where her true calling will lie.
Jerry Lee performs at Movie Towne
THIRTY FILMS FROM CONTEMPORARY WORLD CINEMA WILL SCREEN AT THE 2014 TRINIDAD+TOBAGO FILM FESTIVAL (TTFF/14) T&T Film Festival Announces its World Cinema Selection This announcement of the Panorama section of films, rounds out the ttff/14 lineup. It completes an already impressive roster of films, which comprises three other sections: featurelength Caribbean films, short and medium length films, and the New Media section of experimental films, video art and interactive works. In all almost 150 films will be screened at the ttff/14, which runs from September 16–30. The Panorama section is made up of narrative films and documentaries from around the world, including Trinidad and Tobago’s “heritage” countries and regions, which include India and countries in Africa. There 6
Scenes from the British drama Belle
will also be films from Latin America, the UK, Canada, USA, France, and—for the first time— the Middle East. Many of these films had their premiere at such prestigious film festivals as Cannes, Sundance and the Toronto International Film Festival. Some are also films chosen by their respective countries to vie for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards. One of the films to be
ET&T • SEPTEMBER, 2014 • www.amgtt.com
screened in the Panorama section is the much-anticipated British drama Belle, directed by Amma Asante. Based on true events, it tells the story of an 18th-century noblewoman, Dido Belle Lindsay, who was born to a white father and black enslaved mother. Other films in this section include Omar, directed by Hany Abu-Assad, an acclaimed thriller from Palestine; The Liberator, directed by Venezuela’s Alberto
Arvelo, a sweeping biographical portrait of the freedom fighter Simón Bolívar; and, out of India, Ritesh Batra’s The Lunchbox, a romantic drama starring Irrfan Khan (Slumdog Millionaire, Life of Pi) that has had great global success. “While the Festival’s focus is on films from T&T and the Caribbean, it has always made room for films from world cinema in its lineup,” said Emilie Upczak, the ttff’s Creative Director. “The purpose of this is twofold. One, we like to present our audiences with as much of a variety of films as possible. But we also want to give local filmmakers exposure to the kinds of films their peers from around the world—who are working in an independent context as well— are making.”
REGIONAL NEWS es. When the case was again mentioned more witness issues were uncovered while Henry’s lawyer, Peter Champagnie withdrew from representing the accused due to unfulfilled financial obligations, thus forcing the judge to set the new date. The judge was reportedly annoyed by this development, telling the prosecution, “You ensure that you do what you have to do cause no matter what, the only thing that can prevent the case from starting is if the Lord says so.”
VYBZ KARTEL CONSPIRACY U.S.-BASED DANCEHALL TRIAL POSTPONED UNTIL TALENT SHOW, OCTOBER 27 ‘DANCEHALL GOT As he currently serves a life sentence on a TALENT’ COMING SOON murder conviction, embattled Dancehall superstar, Adidja ‘Vybz Kartel’ Palmer is expected back in court on October 27 after his conspiracy trial, which was expected to get underway in August at the Corporate Area Resident Magistrates Court in Kingston was postponed twice. The case was initially set to begin on August 25th, but was postponed following a flurry of issues including unsettled legal representation for co-accused, Andre ‘Pim Pim’ Henry and the absence of a defence attorney and witness-
Popular media personality and disc jock, Nikki Z is set to host and co-produce the first televised Dancehall talent show in North America as Dancehall Got Talent is expected to hit the airwaves in the near future. The show, produced by LA Wright and Kevin Beswick, is aimed at unearthing deejays and dancers based in the U.S. and promoting them worldwide. Dancehall Got Talent will be broadcast via OmniPresent Media (OPM) while the show will be streamed on Roku and can be watched on Apple TV, Xbox 360, iTunes and
WORLD NEWS I adore him." The mom to Sean, 8, and Jayden, 7, first stepped out with Lucado in March 2013, shortly after calling off her engagement to Jason Trawick. Spears was previously married to Kevin Federline.
JON VOIGHT SHARES HIS JOY FOR DAUGHTER ANGELINA JOLIE'S MARRIAGE TO BRAD PITT Jon Voight says he couldn't be happier that his daughter Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt are
BRITNEY SPEARS AND BOYFRIEND DAVID LUCADO SPLIT It's over! Britney Spears and her boyfriend of over a year, David Lucado, have called it quits. The news comes just months after the couple battled breakup rumors. Spears took to Twitter herself on Aug. 27 and shared the news with world, tweeting, "Ahhhh the single life!" "I'm in love," the "Perfume" singer told Entertainment Tonight during happier times last year. "I like the fact that he's very stubborn and he's stuck in his ways. He's just a simple man. 8
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Hostess Nikki Z
various other digital outlets. The winning deejay of Dancehall Got Talent will receive US$5,000, a recording contract and global distribution deal while the victorious dance group will be brought back as the official dance crew for season two. Dancehall diva, Timberlee along with recording artist, Ed Robinson, fashion expert and entrepreneur Dougie Platinum and IRIE Jam radio personality, DJ Roy will be the show’s judges while guest judge appearances and cameos are expected from acts such as Beenie Man, Mavado, Samantha J, Ce’Cile, Ace Hood, Danielle DI, Kes The Band and more. married. 'I'm very happy that I can legitimately call him my son-in-law, this wonderful fellow who I love,” Jon, 75, said. He added that they are planning to see each other soon: 'She's working now with Brad, and I've got a couple of things to do, but as soon as we can we'll get together and it's going to be exciting.' Jon had told MailOnline that he was planning to fly to Europe to join Angelina and her new husband Brad Pitt, having only found out they were married on Thursday morning. 'I'm going to Europe to see them all this week, I've been waiting a long time for this wedding to happen, everything is cool, I'm very happy,' the Ray Donovan star said. Angelina and Brad would soon be headed to Malta where they are filming their new movie By The Sea.
DREAM
GUY NAME: Trawn Balkissoon AGE: 29 HEIGHT: 5'5”
WEIGHT: 160 lbs CAREER: Personal Trainer BRIEFS OR BOXERS: Boxers FAVOURITE SCENT: Kenneth Cole Black FAVOURITE THING: Cooking, Singing, Working Out, Fishing and riding sports bikes. DESCRIBE YOUR DREAM GIRL: Smart, Pretty, Independent, Loving, Caring… One I can build a life with who is willing to try new things. YOU WERE HEARTBROKEN: Yes, at 16. Long story. YOUR HERO: My Mother.
FAVOURITE FOOD: Curry crab and dumpling. THE WAY TO YOUR HEART IS: Loving me. YOU’D NEVER DO: Hurt elderly people. WHAT ABOUT PETS: I am a dog kinda guy. THE ONE THING YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE: Be the best husband and father I can be. FAVOURITE ARTIST: Richard Marx. FAVOURITE MUSIC: Dancehall, R&B, 80'S soft rock, Pop,
Soca, Alternative and Latin. FAVOURITE PLACE FOR A MEAL: Home. HAVE YOU EVER CHEATED: Once. THE FREAKIEST THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE: I don't kiss and tell. WHERE’S YOUR WEAK SPOT: My chest. WHAT'S YOUR MOTIVATION: To become the best version of myself. HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR BODY: My training, diet and a peace of mind. Photo by Roger Jackson of Absolutpics
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MODEL MANIA
Name: Laura Ramsawak Age: 21 Hometown: Otaheite Bay, South Oropouche Hobbies: Relaxing on the beach
/Discovering new places Laura Ramsawak is one of those people who are always involved in something or the other, yet you can’t help but wonder how she maintains each separate aspect of her life so well. She works multiple jobs and that excludes her gigs as a promotional model and committee member at LIV nightlife. Her days are spent as a secretary and part-time accountant
while Angostura, Bmobile and more, regularly call on her to enhance their brands at events. By the way, she is also a student, pursuing NEBOSH certification. On the fashion tip, she admires the designs of Claudia Pegus, Peter Elias and Anya Ayoung-Chee. Photographers Stephen Doobal, Ronaldo Roberts, Jameel Patrice, Sunil Sookhoo and Sancho Francisco have all captured her
in beautiful still images. Yet, she has not done much runway work, though she plans to develop that aspect of her modeling soon. She already has the right mentality otherwise, as she is dedicated to making time for the gym and eating right in order to project the right image. As far as personality goes, she is as bubbly and down-to-earth as they come. Look out for more from this up and comer in the near future. Photos by Gregory Reyes
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FEATURE
IT’S TIME TO ACHIEVE ENVIOUS EYES
TRINI/CANADIAN INTRODUCES SEMI-PERMANENT EYELASH CRAZE TO LOCAL MARKET
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hen it comes to makeup artistry and cosmetics, many would agree that the most important facial feature is the eyes. A lot is undertaken to ensure eyebrows remain well sculpted while eyelashes are extended to provide an almost feathery finish which adds depth to these soulful windows. However, the days of merely utilizing traditional eyelash flares, strips and mascara for fuller, longer lashes are fast fading into memory as the next generation in eyelash extension technology is quickly taking over. Trini born, Canadian bred cosmetologist Aisha Francis is a specialist in administering these new-wave lashes. In fact, she has to be since these lashes require a certified professional to insert them during what is a delicate procedure. Francis learned her trade over the course of two months at Pro Lash tech in Ontario and she recently introduced the skill to the Trinidad and Tobago market where it has quickly become a hit in high end circles. Francis is the founder and CEO of burgeoning enterprise Envious Eyes. It is the country’s first freelance company which provides semi-permanent eyelash extensions. She is especially adept at dealing with clients for Fashion events, Weddings, Graduations and Photo shoots. Recently, Envious Eyes teamed up with Mas band Petlemas for Carnival 2015 to provide the service to potential masqueraders and they showed off their work at the launch to a great reception. The process of inserting these eyelashes is no simple undertaking. It can take up to a couple hours to complete the process as each lash is inserted individually. The good thing is these lashes last roughly 3-4 weeks with the appropriate care. There are a variety of eyelashes which can be chosen to suit whichever you are opting for. Envious Eyes even offer real mink lashes for those seeking that extra bit of extravagance. Speaking of extravagance,
Aisha Francis
several celebrities swear by semipermanent lashes such as Nicole Kidman, Star Jones, Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, Gwen Stefani, Lucy Liu, Naomi Campbell and Liz Hurley. Yet, the procedure can be done for as little as $600TT at Envious Eyes depending on the package chosen. When asked about the feasibility of running Envious Eyes in T&T’s fickle. trend-obsessed climate Aisha seemed more than confident about her brands’ success. She explained that a large cross-section of people have already tried the process since she returned to Trinidad and she revealed to ET&T that these people now swear by her product and service. Such a process requires lots of client trust as it requires them to have their eyes closed for extended periods. Francis believes that this is never a problem as the casual talk and relaxed environment would usually have clients asleep in minutes. Believe us when we tell you she has the gift of making someone feel comfortable. It’s no wonder as she spent her time working in Social Services executing various forms of Community Outreach. Fortunately for T&T’s beauty landscape, she realized her second calling. You can learn more about this new age system by checking out the Envious Eyes Facebook page. You will enjoy the convenience of house calls while they guarantee beauty in the blink of an eye.
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COOL CARIBBEAN COUTURE I
FASHION
t’s the regional issue, but it’s still ET&T so Trinidad and Tobago comes first. Instead of featuring the work of an overseas designer, we are featuring the work of a local which reflects regional appeal. Séjoux Lëo-Star has been doing his thing in local fashion since he was 16 with his aim of presenting a brand capable of blending Tropical luxury with an innovative and kaleidoscopic style. These pieces reflect that totally as Star blends the colours of the Caribbean in light fabric and cuts commonly worn by our people. Check it out. Models: Keriesse Sammy, Jurissa Joseph, Danielle A. Alfonso, Candace Alfonso, Vaughn Charles, Samuel Mahadeo. Photographer: John Tilokee.
This look is highly functional and slightly flashy with all-round class.
This outfit works whether after work on the avenue or out for an informal bout of cocktails.
A blend of vibrant and earth tones dominate this colour-blocked outfit. www.amgtt.com •
SEPTEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 15
FASHION
Sejoux dares to blend unconventional colours, but somehow he makes it work.
It’s Latin night and you just want to kick off your shoes and shake those hips.
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This comfortable retro-inspired look has enough colour to catch the eye.
ET&T ANTIGUA JUMPY MONARCH RICARDO DRUE
HOT
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SEAT
ince making his solo debut in 2010 following a stint with quartet Crossovah, Ricardo Drue has made several strides in becoming one of soca’s most well-known and respected artistes. On the heels of a big C2K14 thanks to his song Socaholic, Drue went on to cop Antigua’s Soca monarch and is looking forward to bigger and better things. See what he has to say. ET&T: You won this year’s Jumpy Soca Monarch in Antigua. Describe what the feeling was like the moment you were crowned. Drue: Every day I wake up wondering if this is a dream! There are so many feelings that came over me at that moment: shock, excitement, relief (that all the hard work paid off), I felt accomplished and the list goes on. I believe that this is major stepping stone in my career, as a title can bring quite a bit of attention to my brand. Take for example the Mighty Swallow, King Short Shirt and the Burning Flames and what their titles did for them. I am also happy that I was able to capture a title at my young age and given the fact that I have influence from both Antigua and Trinidad, I am looking forward to bridging that musical Gap. ET&T: Does that victory make you feel more confident heading into T&T Carnival 2015? Drue: Yes. The victory has given me a boost of confidence. However: Trinidad is not a game. It is not an easy task to penetrate the market. I intend to use my win as a networking tool to build great relationships within the industry as I make my contributions to Carnival 2k15.
ET&T: You are known more as a groovy sweet soca man. Will we be seeing a lot more Jumpy/ Power tunes from you in the future? Drue: Yes! I will slowly, but surely add more Power songs to my offerings and see how things go, but this is not my first time placing in the competition. In 2012 I was second runner up in the groovy competition and 1st runner up in Power Monarch and Road March. I have been working and testing my power style for the last 5 years and I think now is the best time to test them out in other territories starting with Trinidad. ET&T: Do you plan to continue your role as a Vocalist with Roy Cape in 2015 and beyond or does it depend on your individual success? Drue: OF COURSE!!!! I believe Roy Cape Allstars gave me the tools I needed to be as successful as I was/am in Antigua. This will actually be my Third year as a frontline vocalist for the Roy Cape Fraternity and I must say the lessons they are teaching are really molding me into a seasoned performer. I also feel honored to be the first Antiguan to hold the frontline spot in one of Trinidad’s leading bands. ET&T: People like Bunji, Machel and others have added strong crossover appeal to soca by merging it with other genres. Some songs sound more EDM than soca. Are you ok with that or do you long for a more authentic soca feel being represented internationally? Drue: I am quite fine with that. There is nothing wrong with experimenting to make our product better and more appealing to those who may not understand our culture, that does not mean that we should completely change our culture, we still need to remain true to who we are and where we come from.
ET&T: What will you be doing differently as an artiste in 2015? Drue: Well over the years I have been doing most of the work in Trinidad myself. This year I have a great team that I will be working with closely to make sure the right decisions and connections with the right people are made. My team consists of the Roy Cape All-Stars, J.C management, K13Images, and a few others who will be mentioned later on in the season. We have sourced a creative production team of seasoned producers and Choreographers from around the Caribbean (including Trinidad and Antigua) to enhance the performance and the Quality of the Product. I am pretty excited about this as dancing is one of my passions. ET&T: What believe drives a most: Melody, production? Drue: I personally
do you song the lyrics or believe it’s
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a combination of all 3. It really depends on the person and their interpretation of the song. If i had to put it in order I would say. Production, Melody and Lyrics. I also believe a strong Hook and the Vibe of the record is also very important. ET&T: What’s next for Ricardo Drue? Drue: 2014 was a great year for me. I was named the Soca Monarch. I was second runner up for Groovy and Road march, and I also had a day dedicated to me (June 21st) in the City of Boston. I intend to make sure that 2015 is even better. We are going to improve the quality of music, the quality of performance and continue to build the ItsDrue brand along the way. I am also the Brand ambassador for Digicel Antigua which has now allowed me to expand my network around the Caribbean. So stay tuned and witness as we commence the building/branding of Ricardo Drue &IDnation. SEPTEMBER, 2014 • ET&T 17
CROP OVER
rinidad and Tobago Carnival is widely T regarded as the greatest of its kind. However, some of the other West Indian
EVENTS
influenced Carnivals have been picking up steam in recent years and are generating large tourist turnouts as well. Notting Hill and Caribana are huge, while Labour Day in NYC is also big. However, in terms of the closest to our festival, we think Barbados’ Crop Over is the next best thing. Trinis go to Crop Over just as Bajans would come to our shores to play mas and fete. ET&T has some of the street parade action from this year’s Crop Over festivities. Here’s a sample.
Showing off her shape
A cheerful masquerader
Jamaica in the house
Trinis are in everything boi
Swanky and swagged out
A Carnival couple
One good reason to be there
Chipping down d road
Reveling solo
Well Hi there!
Throwing waist
Carrying her big costume
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A pretty poser
Carnival is woman
Showing him how we do
Rocking a creative costume
Feeling fine in frontline
Happy troopers
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Playing mas with his monkey?
God bless the Caribbean
Spectators get involved
Doesn’t get much better here
Absorbing the culture
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FUN IN TRINI
from the mainland. Plus, the backdrop of the beach vegetation and calm seas can’t be beat as part of a party environment. The promoters of Fun in Trini upped the ante a bit by adding a variety of activities to the usual party vibe and created something that is only going to continue to grow bigger if patron response is anything to go by. Check out a few pics of the action. For more, view our Facebook page.
We’ve been warned
They partied on land and at sea
Showing her seaside style
Getting her pose on
DI events are almost always a blast D due to the increased level of freedom you experience from being away
Ding Dong and Kevon Custodian rocked hard
Can’t choose…
Keeping a drink in hand
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Can’t lime without brethren
Not afraid to flaunt
Guys always GT DDI
She kept her cup filled
ISLAND PEOPLE CELEBRATE
t seems pretty safe to say that Iand despite all the newer bands the changing carnival land-
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scape that Island People still isn’t going anywhere. The band delivered in a stellar launch at Queens Hall even though they had to make a last minute venue change from NAPA due to some politics. They premiered some colourful and well-constructed costumes from their Celebrate theme. IP is actually celebrating 25 years as a brand and a decade as a band this year so expect things to be epic.
Stamp of approval
Pageantry
Spread your hands and leh goooo…
Cocktail reception cuties
Decked off
The epitome of happy
Marlon Grant addresses the audience
A popular costume
Blowing kisses
Fierce
Nadia Batson provided entertainment
Avionne Mark works a colourful creation
Giving a 4D performance
We like what we see
Designer Christian Boucaud with model Miki Augustine
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A simple, but sexy costume
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MACHEL DOES
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CARIBANA
hen it comes to the Soca art form, there is currently no artiste as consistent and in-demand as Machel Montano. He has the ability to W sell out fetes pretty much by himself not only in Trinidad and Tobago, but also in territories across the globe where Carnival and Soca music are appreciated. The modern day King of Soca proved his top-billing by visiting several carnival festivals to sold-out arenas. One such place where he was graciously received was Canada for the grand Caribana festival. The Taipan rocked several fetes and ET&T is privileged to have an inside look at the festival atmosphere surrounding him.
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THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY S ometimes it’s not all black and white. There are levels to this fashion thing. A lot of times we dress up and we get it together pretty darn well. That’s good! Other times, we’re not so lucky and it comes out bad. Then… There’s the ugly. Sigh! THE BAD – Dude, this isn’t a 90’s rap video. Wearing your pants that low is not a good look and it is far from functional. You even have to augment your stride just to facilitate it (and that’s bad).
THE UGLY - I’m not sure what the designer was thinking, but this girl though sweet, should not have been wrapped up in candy paper. She looks like a mascot for what could be KC’s newest sensation…the toolum flavoured sweetie. This is inexcusable for a catwalk (especially Jamaican Fashion week).
THE GOOD – This is way better than just good. She looks stupendous. This photo is a true testament to the beauty Trinidad and Tobago possesses. Her outfit perfectly accentuates her natural beauty.
ISLAND CELEBRITIES
PAPARAZZI PAGEANT EDITION
DANIELLE JONES-HUNTE AND ADRIAN DON MORA SHARE HOSTING DUTIES AT THE MISS TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO UNIVERSE PAGEANT
WINNER JEVON KING SOAKS UP THE ATMOSPHERE
MAGDALENE WALCOTT POSES BACKSTAGE AT THE MISS T&T UNIVERSE PAGEANT
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FORMER MISS UNIVERSE AVIONNE MARK STRIKES A POSE FOR ET&T PHOTOGRAPHERS
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CELEB PROFILE
ARIANA GRANDE
Name: Ariana Grande-Butera Age: 21 (June 26, 1993) Profession: Actress, Singer Claim to Fame: Ariana Grande (born in Boca Raton, Florida) is best known for her role as Cat Valentine on Nickelodeon’s Victorious. Her career was sparked in 2008 by her role as Charlotte in the original Broadway cast of 13. Her pop music career was set off by Victorious, and she was signed
to the Universal Republic Record label. In 2012, her first single “Put Your Hearts Up” gained great attention, debuting at number 25 on the pop charts. She has lent her voice to the music videos and recordings of Demi Lovato, Greyson Chance, and Victoria Justice. Ariana continued her role as Cat Valentine alongside iCarly‘s Jennette McCurdy in their spin-off show, Sam & Cat on Nickelodeon.
Her debut album, Yours Truly, was released in Aug. 2013. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama invited Grande to sing at the White House concert, "Women of Soul: In Performance at the White House" on March 6. Grande also performed at the White House Easter Egg Roll on April 21. In addition, she received the 2014 Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award from the Music Business Association. The
MOVIES
ENGAGE YOUR EMOTIONS W hile explosions, gratuitous sex and slapstick can be quite entertaining, sometimes we need films that provide a bit more depth. We’re not saying that the explosions and fart humor should be abandoned. However, there should be a little extra to engage your emotions while you watch a film. These films should provide that. Addicted Suspense and drama for so can be expected when Billie Woodruff’s Addicted hits theatres. The film centers around a wife who is tested when she cheats on her husband, and it threatens to ruin her and her family. The film stars Kat Graham,
William Levy, Boris Kodjoe and Sharon Leal and this type of film is always a hit among Caribbean women. Fury This war film based in 1945
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hopes to cash in on the awards successes of its predecessors such as Inglorious Basterds, Platoon and Saving Private Ryan. It has a great start by employing a strong cast capable of engaging our emotions. Brad Pitt, Logan Lerman, Shia LaBeouf and Scott Eastwood will play major roles in the film about a battle-hardened army sergeant named Wardaddy who commands a Sherman tank and his five-man crew on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Outnumbered and out-gunned, and with a rookie soldier thrust into their platoon, Wardaddy and his men face overwhelming odds in their heroic attempts to strike at the heart of Nazi Germany.
award recognized Grande's achievements over 2013, including a number one debut on the Billboard charts with her first album, Yours Truly, and a double platinum, Top 10 single with "The Way". In March 2014, Grande confirmed that she had completed her second studio album. The lead single from the album is "Problem" and features Australian rapper Iggy Azalea. It premiered at the 2014 Radio Disney Music Awards on April 27 and sold 438,000 downloads in its first week, making Grande the youngest woman to debut with more than 400,000 downloads. The song debuted at number three (eventually climbing to number two) on the Billboard Hot 100, and became Grande's second single to debut in the top ten, her first being "The Way", and her second top ten single overall. Further, the song was noted for being the highest debut ever for a collaboration of female soloists.
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