All the Caribbean. All the time. For more information on opportunities to advertise in the next issue releasing January 2011, please contact: 954.560.7072 or 754.422.3102
Dear Readers, Once again the evolution of the Gregorian calendar has brought us back full circle to that time of year, when fun seekers from all over the Americas, representing the various nationalities and ethnicities of the Western hemisphere, converge in South Florida to celebrate Bacchanalia. For over a quarter of a century the city of Miami has played host to this annual phenomenon known as Carnival and to see it all unfold is a wonderment to behold, even for those familiar with the tradition. Come this October, the side streets, alleys and main roads of Metropolitan Dade County will be hoarded with scantily clad bands parading for aesthetic approval, revelers performing anatomical twists that defy Isaac Newton’s laws of motion and to the chagrin of the conservatives at heart, excessive carousing will not be frowned upon, but actually encouraged. It is how we assuage the stress and adversities of everyday life. To define it in technical terms, one could say it is a form of self psychoanalysis, or better yet, a process of spiritual cleansing, and this is why we spend all year looking forward to and preparing for it the very second it ends. So as the merrymaking madness known as mas draws nigh, we at Island Headquarters (IHQ) - being the safety first organization that we are - remind you once again to lose total control, throw caution to the wind, party hard, find somebody and jam, drink and be joyous, hmm scratch that, drink responsibly and be joyous - safety first right? - And let free of your inhibitions, after all it is the only time of the year that any inexplicable act of negligence will not warrant a condemnation of your moral fiber or worth as a fellow citizen. Sincerely, Kenny Spence, IHQTV Inc Co-President and staff editor
(for definition refer to page 22)
5. Child support enforcement returns your payment. 4. The child bears a striking resemblance to your bredren Trevor. 3. Your child keeps asking “where’s my daddy?” 2. Friends frequently say “him look like him madda still…” 1. Maury Povich keeps leaving you voicemails.
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THE FIFA
2010 REVIEW
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he 2010 edition of the Fifa World Cup saw a debutante nation - doubted and oft maligned prior to the tournament for its perceived inability to play host to the world’s grandest sporting event – defy all the hypothetical odds and prove all of its detractors wrong. As sweet as South Africa’s vindication was, the dubiousness that plagued the Cup was equally impactful and the shortcomings read like a laundry list of calamities. First we saw the introduction of a new ball aptly dubbed the “Jabulani” - the Zulu word for joy and happiness, and how appropriate when you consider its freakish Frisbee like movement in flight - a conservative and unimaginative Brazilian squad that mirrored their mind-numbing leader, a pathetic révolte by the hapless French, academy award worthy flops from players pantomiming like luckless ducks being shot out of mid-air, more cards than a blackjack table,
stumbling and bumbling from Fifa head Sepp Blatter, incompetent officiating without accountability, and an updated version of the “Hand of God.” Then there were the oddities, like the Italians failing to make it out of the group stage for the first time in 36 years and legendary player turn clueless coach Diego Maradona deciding not to include any natural wing backs in his squad. More Americans tuned in to watch the World Cup than ever before, even well after Uncle Sam’s Army had made their exit, thanks to the Ghanaians, who tried desperately to capitalize on Africa’s moment to shine, but only made it to the quarterfinals. Losing to the Uruguayans on the aforementioned “Hand of God Part II” and penalty kicks in what was probably the most thrilling match of the tournament, filled with all the theatrical vagaries of an Alfred Hitchcock classic.
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n the end, the final match was the coup de grace to a lackluster tournament that was at times hard to watch. Eleven ruffians fully clad in orange jerseys took the field against a well oiled Spanish machine, and displayed what will probably go down as the most shameful brand of hooliganism in a World Cup final. The Dutch literally went into combat, employing a style of play that was pale in comparison to the “total football” of the 1970s that brought them global admiration. So 120 minutes, 47 fouls and 14 yellow cards later, the Dutch bullies justly saw themselves on the wrong end of the score sheet. Gratefully the Gods were not crazy and the team who had most exemplified flair, intelligence and imagination in the spirit of the beautiful game, were the victors. By: Kenny Spence
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arty go-ers have dubbed him “The People’s DJ”, due to his ability to know exactly what to play at the right time. Known primarily for his work in Soca, Trinidadian born Dorenzo Olivier has been perfecting this seemingly instinctive knack for over 20 years since his days as a youngster in Brooklyn, New York, spinning Reggae, Dancehall, Calypso, R&B, Hip Hop and Latin records. After weeks of trying to pinpoint a break in his hectic schedule, DJ Dorenzo finally found the time to afford IHQ a chance to chew the fat.
IHQ: Who are your musical influences? DJD: To be specific to the genre, I would say GB Productions, Anonymous, Teddy Muhammad, The Supreme Team and Mad Mad Maddy. The list can go on and on. IHQ: How did you get started in the industry? DJD: A friend introduced me to DJ GB productions back in 1989, and as they say the rest is history.
DJD: Working on the next mix tape, I don’t have a name for the project at this moment. IHQ: What selection do you have in your CD player right now? DJD: Palance IHQ: In your opinion, who is the most significant Soca artiste or band of all time? DJD: Wow that’s a tough one, gun to my head I would have to say Machel Montano.
IHQ: Was there ever a point you wanted to quit?
IHQ: What advice would you give to someone trying to get into the industry?
DJD: I can honestly say I have never felt like quitting, this is my passion.
DJD: Stay positive and never give up on your dream.
IHQ: What are some of the positives of the industry?
IHQ: What are some of the negatives?
ue 10 Q w i t h st io DJ Dore n z
DJD: I would say networking, traveling and meeting new people.
DJD: Unfortunately, I would have to say all the under cutting that goes on. IHQ: What is a typical day like? DJD: Juggling all my responsibilities, like going to work, spending time with the family and working on music. IHQ: What are some of the projects you are working on currently?
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Startimekid’s Soca Playlist Tell Me-Machel Montano No Behavior-Machel Montano Palance-JW Blaze Slow Wine-Machel Montano Proppa-Destra Bumper to Fender-Machel Montano Party Hard-Donaeo Baddest Wine-Alison Hinds Ramajay-Machel My Girl-Kes the Band
Roll Credits... Kizzy Alleyne as Dr. Kizzy Michelle Saldanha as Dr. Saldanha
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Nurse Paging Dr. Kizzy…(radio static), paging Dr. Kizzy...(radio static) Dr. Kizzy pauses in the middle of finishing the last chunks of some delicious Roti and rushes over to the operating room. INT. HOSPITAL O. R. Dr. Kizzy enters the room and a nurse puts on her surgical apron and gloves. She then joins Dr. Saldanha at the operating table. Dr. Kizzy So what do we have here? Dr. Saldanha Some sort of Carnival mutant, half human/half mas band.
They came from assorted points of origin, extravagantly adorned in multilayered garments of silk and textile, beautifully decorated to stimulate the optic nerves of the human retina. To the observing novice, the costumes that pervade the streets during Carnival are simply just a by-product of the frolic that is associated with bacchanal; but to the weathered veteran, it is a religious conviction and a symbol of appreciation for one’s culture. Those involved will be quick to point out that beyond the glitzy surface there is an exact science at work, as the making of a good band requires complete self sacrifice, a lot of money, super organizational skills and the meticulousness of a trauma surgeon. And no, that last point was not a misprint or an exaggeration, the process is truly surgical and band leader Kizzy Alleyne of Vibrationzz can attest to that. In fact, it is very likely that the story behind the construction of her band went something like this.
Admitted with disjointed ligaments and decreased heart rate, we are in for a doozy. Dr. Kizzy First things first, we need to perform an angioplasty. OK clamps. Nurse, hold these in place. Dr. Saldanha Scalpel please; OK let’s makes an incision here for the guide wire. Let’s get this balloon catheter in there. Nurse I’m sorry Dr. Tizzy, but I’m having a problem getting the balloon through the incision. Dr. Tizzy takes charge and inserts the balloon catheter. Dr. Kizzy Get the paddles; the patient is close to flat lining. A nurse brings the paddles over and charges them to capacity. Scrub Nurse Clear! Dr. Kizzy Excellent we have vital signs. Dr. Saldanha Okay, now that we have the heart pumping, let’s restructure its anatomy. First we need to attach prosthetic limbs, and next we need a hip replacement; the patient’s medical records detail poor wining skills. I mean hey, yuh haffi can jam right? After several hours of intense surgery, Dr. Kizzy emerges with an exuberant bellow. Dr. Kizzy LOOK!!! It’s moving, it ah jam. It’s alive. It’s alive. It’s alive, it’s moving, it’s alive, it’s alive, it’s alive, IT’S ALIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THE END
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retty intense isn’t it? Okay, okay so it’s not an actual surgery, but you get the picture. The process of assembling a band truly requires a disciplined approach. From the role as the band leader, to the person in charge of food and beverages, to the costumes, the DJ and all the other ancillary parts, it is a daunting task. So the next time you go to Carnival, mentally sieve through the hype and allure, and take a second to appreciate the work and skillful artistry that it took to put on the grandiosity appearing before your eyes. By: Kenny Spence
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he search for enjoyable music nowadays is usually a drawn out effort that ends in utter disappointment. Calypso music fans however can take solace in knowing that they can turn to the old reliable Soca Gold compilation CD. Since 1997 the Soca Gold CD compilations have successfully managed to capture the essence of the genre, while achieving overwhelming critical acclaim and fan approval. Edwin Howell the project’s mastermind lets us in on the cloaked experience of his musical realm.
IHQ: What was the impetus behind the creation of Soca Gold? E.H: Back in 1997, the public was over saturated with “sing over” versions of the popular tunes. We wanted to introduce a mix CD that would feature the actual artistes that did the original versions so that the public could become familiar with them. IHQ: Explain the creative process that is required to put a Soca Gold CD together? E.H: Well our mind-set is to not just focus on Trinidad, but to survey the entire scope of the Caribbean and hand pick the hottest tracks and artistes in order to bring the entire Caribbean under one roof. IHQ: The bonus DVD is a cool feature, when did that idea take shape? E.H: Back in 1999 we decided to include a bonus CD - which was a DJ mix – along with the actual Soca Gold CD. Beginning in 2006 we wanted to take it up another notch and include visuals along with the audio. So now fans could see their favorite artistes’ videos, on stage performances, interviews, etc. IHQ: There is a definite sex appeal to each CD cover, what are the motives at work here? E.H: Well we search for concepts and themes that relate to Carnival or the atmosphere that
surrounds a fête. Every cover has a unique concept, for instance, year one may have a bathing suit theme, and the next year, a wet look theme, etc. Just like how it is during Carnival. IHQ: How are the models chosen? E.H: The models come from all over. The Caribbean, the United States, everywhere. We try to make sure they have a Caribbean background. IHQ: What is the current range of distribution for Soca Gold? E.H: Worldwide distribution, I mean Japan, Europe, the Caribbean, the four corners of the earth. IHQ: What are your future plans for the Soca Gold series? E.H: Well, first and foremost, every year has to be better than the previous year. We have a few things in store for the fans that I’m just not at liberty to discuss right now. IHQ: Any last words for the fans? E.H: Go support Soca Gold and Reggae Gold, and if you say you love the artiste, buy original and don’t buy bootleg.
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carnival’s beauty SHANIK LOPEZ IHQ: Name two things about other people that drive you nuts? S.L: People with bad manners and people with body odor. IHQ: Name two things about yourself that drive other people nuts? S.L: I’m never on time and I’m always in the mirror. IHQ: Worst advice you have ever received? S.L: I don’t take advice from people. I’m so hard headed, I do what I want. Live and learn is my motto.
2010 S.L: Wow that’s a hard one. It would have to be a compilation CD, I can’t pick one artist. It would have to have Beyonce, Alanis Morissette, Trey Songz, Beanie Man, Bounty Killer, Vybez Kartel and Bob Marley all rolled up in one CD. IHQ: Hey that was a cop out. S.L: I know, but you didn’t specify. IHQ: What is your favorite genre of music? S.L: REGGAE!! IHQ: That was emphatic. OK, which is more appealing, athletes or musicians?
IHQ: Name 3 things a man could do to impress you?
S.L: Musicians definitely. They are more in tune with their emotions.
IHQ: Be themselves - it’s so hard to find a real man nowadays in this material world - worship the ground I walk on, that’s always cool, and smells good.
IHQ: I have two “corny or not corny” questions. First one, people who wear sunglasses at night and in the club, corny or not corny?
IHQ: Describe your perfect man? S.L: My perfect man would be rich, smart, funny, handsome and faithful.
S.L: CORNY!
IHQ: If you were stranded on a deserted island, what is the one CD you must have?
IHQ: Guys with long fingernails, especially the pinky finger, corny or not corny? S.L: CORNY!
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t’s 2010 and the man known as Bunji Garlin sits on his throne ruling over the sovereign kingdom of soca music. As the current undisputed premier of the soca genre surveys the musical landscape, there are few (except Machel Montano) that pose a legitimate challenge to his reign. The scary thing to fellow artistes is that as far as he is concerned, his dynasty is still in its infancy. Should things go his way, soca music will become one of the most influential genres of music known the world over. July 14th, 1978; the man now known as Bunji Garlin is born Ian Alvarez in Arima, Trinidad. As a youth at Arima Senior Comprehensive School, he made a name for himself singing for classmates and in local talent shows under the name “Little Bounty”. He got the name from his style of chanting which closely mirrored that of the Jamaica dancehall
superstar, Bounty Killer. In later years, he was dubbed “Bunji Garlin (the girl’s dem darlin’)”. When asked about the origin of that name, he answered Bunji is from the bungee-cord which is used in death-defying
performed can attest to the truth of my words. There are few artistes of the genre that can boast of crossing the generational gap and addressing a wide range of topics quite
stunts which is flexible but unbreakable and Garlin is a gun with powerful shots. He lives up to this moniker with his versatile and rapid-fire flow. Trinidad Carnival, 1999, Bunji bursts on the scene with “Send Dem Riddim Crazy” and establishes himself as a force to be reckoned with in the soca music scene. The very next year, he lived up to that potential by capturing the “Young King” title and winning the inaugural “Ragga Soca” title. This led to him being signed by the record label IP Music International Ltd and the release of his debut album, “The Chronicles”. Since his debut, he has went on to garner numerous accolades such as, 2001 Ragga Soca title and 4-time winner of Trinidad International Soca Monarch (2002, 2004, 2005 & 2008), among others. Current day, he is widely respected as the foremost lyricist of the genre which is exhibited in his high energy performances. Backed by his band “The Asylum”, Bunji is known for his crowd-controlling routines. At a whim, he can command an entire crowd of hundreds, sometimes thousands to move in any direction he pleases. He is also famous for sending crowds in a frenzy with his displays of “extempore” (improvised rhyming, like free-styling in hip hop). Anyone who has attended a show where the “Fire Man” (as he’s also known) has
like Bunji can. The lyrics of his songs cover a broad scope of issues like crime, poverty, discrimination, politics and sex. As only he can, he presents his social commentary in a way that all can dance to and have fun with. Bunji also explores the lighter side of life in his music and many of his songs are created just for dancing and romancing.
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ven though Bunji has climbed the summit of the world of soca, do not expect him to slow his meteoric ascent. Now in his 12th year as a professional musician, he is poised to take his music and all his listeners to a higher level. Being one of the few, if not the only artiste to create music that can attract fans of different genres of music such as soca, reggae, dancehall and even hip hop; he is certain to impact a wide cross-section of international audiences. The expressive vocalist wields the power to move you, indulge your imagination, stimulate your intellect and tell a story like none other. The Monarch of Soca invites his constituents to accompany him on his journey to revive the soca genre to heights never before seen. You can rest assured that this is a journey worth embarking upon.
By: A.S. Jawara
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The event is tofirst rule of planning yourself get an idea of wha to attend any favorite Caribbean isle here), are you to. Start t you’re Miami/Bin ready?! October will see South Florida roward Caby checking out thgetting (w e official rn ww.m being inundated by West Indians comival w site a list of piaa mibrowardcarnivaeb ing together in harmony to celebrate willing to rticipating bands l.com). They hav the 26th annual Miami/Broward may also inaccept last minutethat would all be e Carnival. In order to alleviate the counts or spquire if they have masqueraders. You feeling of being overwhelmed with an ecial pricin F or part your carnival “to-do” list, it would be g for leftoyvgroup diser costumes up, thereyago-ers who don’t in best to make an itinerary to get your investigate re other websites thtend to play dress.tasks completed. I humbly suggest fetes happenthat would give a at you could that you begin this week. For those If you aren’t ing in South Florilidneup of all the that may need a bit of help with their internet sa a for Carn a roti sh schedule, here is what my pre-carnival vvy, iva multitudoep close to your areayou can simply visl.it activities will look like on a of flyers th and check ey’re sure to out the daily basis. have. vent(s) f what ean’t do o a e id n ou c uth ve a t you ha wisely; y So Now thaattend, chooseto get tickets. in d o s t t e e e you plalln, you would n“buy your tickl time is one them aa isn’t usually a n but Carnivaest interests to Florid e” type of towy be in your b run the risk advanc e where it ma n will not only rices habituinstancProcrastinatio sell-out, but pn purchased do so. g victim to a es triple) whe . Trust me of fallinuble (sometimay of the eventbe stuck ally dodoor on the d don’t want to lia is going at the say that you hat bacchana line or at one when Ie, wondering wour tickets onusinesses like outsid ide. Purchase ydian owned b ile at the roti on ins many West In roti shops. Wh of the rementioned roti (slight the afo ave a shrimp (beer) on me. shop, h) and a Carib pepper You nize youroCut-of-towners wou on this d arnival vacation ld want to orgawilling toapy. If you have goods accommodations morning rovide a place to friends or family booking a, consider yourself lucrash every you haven hotel is your only cky. Otherwise stickin’! Go’t already booked a alternative. If on a websi online ASAP and room, then yuh te like hote such site th ls.com assess hotel rate friends to shat you may know, Orbitz, or any s suggested w are the cost of boof. Rooming with establish ay to go. You m y arding is the most also want to one is throsome ground rules ato gets under wing blows before ensure that noway. J’Ouvert
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I know my ladies will descend South Florida with the intent of cauupon spontaneous neck injuries. To exec sing assignment you would want to do ute this your beautification as close to the festiviti realistically possible so you can look es as sparkling best. As a result, Friday your morning/ afternoon should be devoted to doin mani-pedi, Brazilian waxes, etc. The g hair, applies to the guys. Take the day off same you could beat the crowd at the barbwork so or take an hour on your lunch brea er shop “niced-up”. The last thing you’d wank and get before heading out is to make sure t to do everything is in order.
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ith your activities completed, you are now ready to succumb to the spirit of Carnival. At this point, the rigidity of following a daily itinerary will be rendered obsolete. The best experience will be enjoyed by those who handle their scheduling with a laissez-faire mentality. I now welcome you to Miami/Broward Carnival 2010. I hope you left your troubles and your mind at home because you’re destined to lose both if you’ve brought them. Enjoy… Collaborative Efforts By: Patrice Campbell (Chatty Patty) & A.S. Jawara
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or centuries the language of the West Indies has been shaped by a melting pot of influences, resulting in a mottled collection of lingo that is as diverse as the people of the Caribbean themselves. Words and phrases succinctly chopped in such a witty manner that they evoke laughter at first sound. The following is a small sample, or, as they say in Jamaica, “a likkle tups”. EXPRESSION
DEFINITION
LAND OF USAGE
Skettel
A woman of questionable morals, one who haunts the more sordid side of town. Spirit or Ghost. Comparable to the Jamaican word “Duppy” Useless person Badly dressed. Disheveled. Looking ‘anyhow’ An offensive term for an effeminate male To iron ones clothes in a sloppy manner An expression of disbelief A very inquisitive person Diarrhea You are blocking my view
Jamaica
Jumbie Wutliss Kaba-Kaba Auntieman Crab mash Mudda sick Maco Belly work Yuh faddah is a glassmaker? Yuh nuh haffi gwaan so Pappy Show Almshouse Batty Peg or Batty Jaw Rake and Scrape Ruff skin lemon Shall I Baby
You don’t have to act like that To make a fool of yourself A series of unscrupulous actions Buttocks Folk music performed by using a handsaw A thick skinned sour orange used for making beverages Another’s man child that is passed off deceptively for another man to raise
Trinidad Jamaica Trinidad Various Barbados Bahamas Trinidad Guyana Trinidad Jamaica Various Jamaica Jamaica Bahamas Trinidad Belize
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OCTOBER 6 - WEDNESDAY THE WELCOME TO MIAMI PARTY @ KARMA SUPPER CLUB OCTOBER 7 - THURSDAY CARNIVAL BLAST-OFF @ TROPICS IN PINES NAUGHTY OR NICE PARTY @ CAMEO OCTOBER 8 - FRIDAY VIRGIN ISLAND BIG BANG @ DARYL’S HALL ANTIGUAN PARTY @ CALDER RACE COURSE RISE MIAMI MEETS SHINE NYC @ AMERICA’S BACKYARD JOUVERT/BLOCK PARTY INTERNATIONAL FLAG NIGHT @ SOHO STUDIOS OCTOBER 9 - SATURDAY SOCA XPLOSION @ GALAXY SKATEWAY MIAMI DAY FETE @ GULFSTREAM R.A.V.E - A Real Artist Vibe Experience @ CALDER RACE COURSE WETE FETE @ LOCATION: T.B.A DONS & DIVAS @ PLAY NIGHTCLUB OCTOBER 10 - SUNDAY PARADE OF THE BANDS AND STAGE SHOW @ SUN LIFE STADIUM RAMJAM CARNIVAL AFTER PARTY @ CALDER RACE COURSE JABBA STRIKES BACK @ BONGOS OCTOBER 11 - MONDAY RAMJAM ON FIRE @ CALDER RACE COURSE LAST WUK UP @ TROPICS IN PINES SOCAVIVOR BOATRIDE @ S.S LOVE BOAT LAST LAP PARTY @ MANSION OCTOBER 12 -TUESDAY PURE NICENESS @ CLUB BED
THE PLANTATION INN HOTEL & LOUNGE
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ennett Davis is deep in thought. You can tell he is deep in thought because he is leaning forward in his office chair, his eyes staring at some distant point, both elbows digging in his desk and his chin resting atop his clasped hands. The recent recession has forced business owners like Davis to become more resourceful, and as the spearhead of the Plantation Inn Hotel, the past 7 years has been a process of constant innovation. His exploratory approach has transformed this once run of the mill establishment into a vibrant and fully furnished accommodation. Locals can escape from the everyday strain of
work and out-of-towners can sidestep the hustle and bustle of the tourist spots to seek refuge in this restful abode, equipped with wonderful amenities, such as cable TV, high speed internet access and an outdoor pool just to name a few. So the next time you feel like getting away, but not too far from home and you don’t have much to spend, seek out that friendly lodging on State Road 7 just north of Broward Boulevard, where the ambiance is great and you can have the security in knowing that there is a pleasant staff always available for your every beckon call.
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Staff Editor In chief & Co - President Kenneth Spence Marketing Director & Co - President Mario Lawson Art Director Veon Watson vwats.com Contributors Patrice Campbell chattypatty.com Kizzy Alleyne A.S. Jawara Photographers Lead Photographer: Nick Wallace Photography Troy Morgan Roger B. Stillz Please Support Our Advertisers Thanks to all our family and friends.