SOCANEWS F ree
i131/ aug 2019 ISSN 1464-7087
socanews.com
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EDITOR’S LETTER Why do I love carnival? Let me count the ways... I love carnival because of the incredible buzz you get from chipping through the streets, feeling the freedom of the road. I love carnival because of the amazement you feel at the artistry, the variety of costumes on display as you walk from band to band and admire the product of all the hard work, time and money that have gone into getting the bands on the road. COVER IMAGE PICTURE
FANCY INDIAN
Photography courtesy Mark Lyndersay @macmark23
I love carnival because it’s that one time of year you meet a plethora of brothers and sisters from another mother, and you just know, no words required. I love carnival because, no matter what organisers say about the route or the timing, judging points or any other logistics, there’s always going to be time spent idling and waiting while things don’t run smoothly – and it doesn’t matter. I love carnival because the true spirit of the Caribbean is reflected in these two days that we call Carnival. In the midst of this season of revelry, Soca News would like to send sincere condolences to the families of Lyn Gabriel and of Lloyd Bedeau. YOURS IN SOCA. Joseph Charles EDITOR
PUBLISHER & EDITOR Joseph Charles jc@socanews.com CREATIVE Joseph Charles, Lawson Lovell SUB EDITOR Katie Segal katie@socanews.com CONSULTING EDITOR Stephen Spark stephen@socanews.com
SALES & ADVERTISING Rodney Wilson rodney@socanews.com sales@socanews.com
PUBLISHED BY Joseph Charles Publishing 86-90 Paul Street London, EC2A 4NE
WORDS Ashley Harris, Jonathan George, Joseph Charles, Katie Segal & Stephen Spark.
TELEPHONE + 44 (0) 333 012 4643
PICTURES Bampson, Peter Hogan & Stephen Spark.
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The views expressed in Soca News are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. All material contained within this publication is the copyright of Soca News. No material, written or photographic may be reproduced in any way without the written permission of the publisher. No liability will be accepted for any errors which may occur within the magazine. © 2019 Soca News. All rights reserved. 4 SN AUG 2019
CONTENTS AUGUST 2019 | ISSUE 131
REGULAR
MAS
06. News 08. Health 10. Food & Drink
37. Mas Band Listings 39. Hotwax 42. Omnia 44. Tears Mas
FEATURES 12. Pure Lime 14. J'Ouvert 16. Soca People 22. Notting Hill Carnival 24. Melissa Simon-Hartman 28. Pan
EVENTS 31. Event Listings
Where to go and what to do this Notting Hill Carnival.
MUSIC 20. Tunes for the road Get familiar
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NEWS
LYNETTE GABRIEL
I
t is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of Lynette Gabriel, on Thursday 1 August. Lynette and Carl are the artists behind the magnificent wire sculptures and costumes, some of which may be found at both The Tabernacle and The Yaa Centre sites of Carnival Village, where the couple have been based for some time; other pieces have been played and displayed up and down the country, and elsewhere. After Carl finished bending the wire, Lyn would decorate the piece, bringing it to life with colours and textures, often using recycled and natural materials. Lyn, who came to the UK in 1956, has always been part of carnival. Her uncle was Sterling Betancourt, one of the Notting Hill Carnival’s steel pan pioneers, her dad a pannist and her mother a carnival queen. Lyn and Carl have been as dedicated to educating as to creating, working with young people to teach and celebrate the culture and art forms of carnival, whilst sharing knowledge of their unique artistic techniques. A gentle and unassuming powerhouse with a huge heart, Lyn will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure and honour to know her. Soca News would like to send condolences to all her friends and family, especially to Carl in this very difficult time. The funeral service will be held at 11am on Thursday 22 August at All Hallows Church, Horsenden Lane, Greenford UB6 0PD; the interment follows at 1.30pm at Greenford Park Cemetery. 6 SN AUG 2019
SILENT FOR GRENFELL
O
RESPECT & REFLECT
n both days of Carnival in Notting Hill we will, once again, hold a 72-second silence at 3pm on both Sunday and Monday in honour of the 72 lives lost in the Grenfell Tower fire just over two years ago. The tower is within sight of the Carnival route, and the incident affected, and still affects, many local residents. When we stop and fall silent in the midst of the masquerade we are sending a powerful message to those who wield power without humanity: our lives matter, and we hold them responsible for those we have lost. All sound systems, bands, local pubs and bars have been asked to connect to radio station The Beat 103.6FM so that there will be a coordinated count-in and silence throughout Carnival. All those attending Carnival, masqueraders and residents are kindly being asked to observe the silence as we remember Grenfell together.
TWEAKS AT THE TENT – LONDON CALYPSO SEASON TRIMMED
F
or calypso enthusiasts in the UK, the Notting Hill Carnival season doesn’t truly start until the first Friday in August. That date is, of course, the first night of the London Calypso Tent. That much will remain the same for 2019, so you can mark your calendar right now. The venue is the same too – The Tabernacle in Powis Square, London W11. And, Soca News is assured, we’re still going to be treated to a full night’s entertainment from the nation’s favourite calypsonians. Honey-toned Helena B, impeccably attired Lord Cloak, musical craftsman Alexander D Great and many others will be trying to prize the kaiso crown from De Admiral’s head in lyrical combat on The Tabernacle stage. On one side of them will be the brass of the ABC Band; on the other the soulful voices of the glamorous Divettes. Unfortunately, financial pressures mean that the usual five-night season has had to be cut down to four, losing the popular Last Night of the Tent which traditionally has been held on the Friday before Carnival. The Calypso Monarch Final will still take place on Thursday 22 August, and the three preceding Fridays in August will
SOCA DIVETTES
keep the fire of kaiso blazing in London. For most of its 27-year life, the London Calypso Tent was run by the Association of British Calypsonians (ABC). A couple of years ago it was pointed out that some of the calypsonians were not actually British, so the name was changed to the Association of Calypsonians UK (ACUK). That, though, meant that the group seemed to be giving the cold shoulder to soca singers, which was not the intention at all. So now we must get used to a new acronym: ACASA ‑ the Association of Calypsonians and Soca Artistes. Soca News wishes ACASA well, and looks forward to publishing its activities for many years to come.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
09
16
22
AUG
AUG
AUG
CALYPSO & SOCA EXTRAVAGANZA
UK GROOVY SOCA MONARCH FINAL
UK CALYPSO MONARCH FINAL
FOR MORE INFO VISIT SOCANEWS.COM/EVENTS SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019 7 7
health
PI
IS M O RR C © D EN N
IS AS SI ST
ED BY BO
LA D E BA N
JO
“Let’s talk about prostate cancer”
L
Prostate Cancer UK supporter Godfrey Fletcher encourages everyone to talk about prostate cancer risk ike many men, Godfrey Fletcher, had little knowledge of prostate cancer when he was diagnosed at just 47. The news came as a complete shock. Godfrey was unaware that black men over 45 faced a higher risk of prostate cancer. He also didn’t know that he had a family history of the disease, which also made it more likely he would develop prostate cancer. He said, “After being diagnosed with prostate cancer I found out that I wasn’t the only one in my family. Not only had my grandfather died from the disease, my father had been living with it for some time but preferred not to speak about it. “Thankfully my cancer was picked up early and I should make a full recovery, but this notion of avoiding conversations about a disease that affects one in four black men must end.” Most men with early prostate cancer don’t have 8 SN AUG 2019
any symptoms. That’s why it’s important for people to be aware of the risk factors too. Prostate cancer is most common in men over 50 and black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer have a particularly high risk. The PSA blood test is the first step towards diagnosis and black men are encouraged to start speaking to their GP about the test from the age of 45 – five years earlier than other men. Since his diagnosis, Godfrey has worked with Prostate Cancer UK on their mission to tell black men about their higher risk of prostate cancer. He said, “Let’s get a conversation going. Let’s talk about prostate cancer and get the message out there so that more people can be diagnosed earlier.” If you are concerned about your risk, you can contact Prostate Cancer UK’s Specialist Nurses on 0800 074 8383 or visit prostatecanceruk.org.
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food & drink
Marc Woods talks Rumblin'
IN THE RUN UP TO PANORAMA WE CAUGHT UP WITH MARC WOODS, THE CO-FOUNDER OF RUMBLIN' AND AN ADVOCATE FOR CARIB, THE CARIBBEAN’S NO.1 BEER. In the run up to Panorama we caught up with Marc Woods, the founder of Rumblin' and an advocate for Carib, the Caribbean’s No.1 Beer. Tell us about yourself. I was born in Trinidad and Tobago, and left at 19 to go university in the USA. In 2003 I moved to the UK to pursue a master’s degree, and after I graduated, I stayed. Have you been going back to Carnival in Trinidad? Yes, every year for 18 years. However, since being in England I now get my annual Carnival fix at Notting Hill. What makes Carnival special? For me, it’s the most infectious celebration of West Indian culture. Once it grabs hold of you it never leaves, and will always lead you to good times, good vibes and good feelings. What advice do you have to anyone attending Notting Hill Carnival? Whether dancing to your favourite soca tune or playing mas, make sure you keep your carnival spirit alive with Carib. Remember, spectating makes great pictures, but participating makes lasting memories. 10 SN AUG 2019
What’s your favourite Caribbean dish? I recommend roti (from Trinidad) or jerk pork or chicken (from Jamaica). Any of these is real good with an ice-cold Carib before, during or after a long night of liming and feting. It’s the perfect recipe for an awesome carnival. Tell us more about Rumblin'? We specialise in hand-crafted cocktails (using rum and other spirits) as well as a selection of the best lagers from a variety of different Caribbean islands. What’s your favourite Carnival cocktail? Rumblin’ reshapes the Jungle Bird by combining rum, pineapple juice, our special Rumblin’ sugar syrup, lime juice and our homemade mauby liqueur for a delicious beverage in tribute to one of the great Windies cricket legends, Joel Garner, aka ‘Big Bird’. On August 24th from 6 to 10pm you can find Rumblin' at one of the hottest pre-carnival warm-up events, Panorama, the UK National Steelpan competition. And remember, Carib Original (5% ABV) and Carib Shandy (1.2% ABV) are both available at Asda, Tesco, Morrison and Sainsbury’s, as well as your local grocers nationwide.
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feature
It may be a PURE LIME, but it's all about the CHOCOLATE WORDS | JOSEPH CHARLES + KATIE SEGAL PIC | JOSEPH YOUNG + LIZ BLIZ
P
ure Lime has been around as long as people have been rubbing chocolate onto their bodies at Notting Hill Carnival. As the original chocolate band, they’ve been doing their thing for quite a while now: for ten years as a Sunday section in Cocoyea, and then taking the leap into independence. Now in its 24th year, Pure Lime is the grown up chocolate band. But this year will be fundamentally different; Mrs Chocolate, Theresa D’Abreu, the force behind the scenes, won’t be there. Theresa lost her battle with cancer on Sunday, 21 October 2018, so this will be the band’s first year on the road without her serene and steadfast presence. 12 SN AUG 2019
Theresa was very much loved and respected by the Pure Lime family and far beyond. She was a former chairman of CAMF, the mas band association, and for many years the esteemed captain and coach of Hendon Hockey Club. She will be long remembered by her beloved family and dear friends, as well as many band members, teammates and work mates. So, on Carnival Sunday in Pure Lime this year, it will still be about the chocolate, and always about the lime – but also very much about honouring T, and paying tribute to her memory. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PURE LIME 2019 PLEASE VISIT PURELIME.CO.UK
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jouvert
Play ah J'Ouvert (OR MAYBE A DUTTY MAS)
J
WORDS | KATIE SEGAL
’Ouvert. That word brings so much colour and noise and feeling to life when it’s heard by a carnivalist, any time of the year. It’s the opening of the carnival (j’ouvert = jour ouvert = ‘opening of the day’, in French). It’s exhaustion and exhilaration, old clothes and muck, paint and powder. It’s trudging and jumping, darkness and dawn, high spirits and strong spirits. It’s the freedom and essence of carnival, lived and loved by those who know. There’s a Notting Hill Carnival J’Ouvert, a fairly well kept secret that starts at 6am from the top of Ladbroke Grove. Wining to the sounds of sweet steel pan and edible missiles flying past your ear, it’s the best way to begin your two days of carnival. There are also J’Ouvert -style bands on the road on Carnival Sunday, playing dirty (‘dutty’) mas during the day. This is officially Children’s Day, and so as not 14 SN AUG 2019
to disturb the main event the adult bands all begin on Ladbroke Grove, south of the route, only when all the children’s bands are well on their way. If you want to dance in the street whilst being covered in mud, paint or chocolate, this is for you.
J'OUVERT BANDS
DUTTY MAS BANDS
Ebony Candy Mas Endurance London All Stars
ABIR Mas, Candy Mas, Chocolate Nation, Colours, Island Mas, Karnival Mania, Lagniappe, Pure Lime TT Mudders, UCOM & Wotless.
FOR MORE INFO
SOCANEWS.COM/MASBANDS
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soca people
Fakekou TRINI TO THE BONE
K
OU, aka Sterlin Callender, is a die-hard, Trini-to-the-bone, soca artist. This performer’s passion is to simply make soca music and perform soca music, so it’s no surprise that he's been walking this path and developing his craft over the last 13 years. Here he tells us what’s been going on with him. You have been off the UK soca music scene for some time now. What have you been up to? Family life, along with life in general. But I’ve still been writing and performing around the UK and the USA, mastering and crafting the art and my style. Remind our readers of who you are, and where your music comes from? I’m from South Trinidad: Marabella. I’m a patriot to my country and culture - and myself. The music comes from life experience and inspiration from de most high. I have always been considered a worldbeat artiste with a soca tongue. Being influenced by so much music growing up, I continue to push the envelope. 16 SN AUG 2019
You are Trinidadian by birth, so what brought you to London? My family lived here, and after visiting I fell in love with this beautiful place. Now I’ve got my own family. You have recently released a new track called ‘Ah Too Old’, can you tell us a little about that track? Yes; Ah Too Old is about being an older person, how they think and behave in society and parties - but speaking to police / lawmakers to make them understand that we just want to have fun and enjoy our life, no harm intended. Now that you're back on the scene, can you see any changes that tell you UK soca is going in the right direction? Yes. There’s a lot of young blood and new talent on the scene. They just need the support and platform to be heard - like from yourselves and promoters etc. But there's still a lot to be done. You can find more info on Fakekou via his instagram feed @fakekouhotmail.
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music Tunes for the road We don’t expect you to chip the whole carnival route without any music, so here are just some of the tunes you need to get to know. 1.
Savannah Grass
2.
The Road
3.
Call My Mother For Me
4.
Famalay
5.
Hookin Meh
6.
Gyal Owner
7.
Issa Snack
8.
Leave (Kita Sa)
9.
Pandemonium
KES THE BAND
MACHEL MONTANO X ASHANTI
EDWIN
MACHEL MONTANO X BUNJI GARLIN X SKINNY FABULOUS FARMER NAPPY
BLAXX
What is Soca During the 1970s the popularity of calypso waned, and what took its place was a more lively, up-tempo kind of music. Soca was influenced by gospel, Indian instrumentals, funk, African spirituals and reggae. In contrast to calypso, with its tradition of socio-political commentary, soca is more concerned with people partying and having a good time. The musical masterpieces of great artists, such as Ras Shorty I’s Endless Vibrations and Soul of Calypso, helped to make soca music international. Shorty I experimented with Indian instruments such as the dhantal, tabla and dholak to belt out the first stream of soca music. In the beginning, like calypso, soca was used to provide commentary and humour, but soon the more risqué business of wining and jamming took over the new sound. Many argue that the lyrics of soca are less appealing than its contemporary, calypso, but needless to say it took over the streets and is more widely played now than calypso - except in the Calypso Tent. In many ways, soca is to calypso what dancehall is to reggae: the former dedicated to fun and dancing, the latter addressing some of life’s more serious issues.
NESSA PREPPY X TRAVIS WORLD TEDDYSON JOHN
VOICE X WUSS WAYS X TRAVIS WORLD
10. No Habla
ERPHAAN ALVES
11. One Woman MOTTO
12. Mix Up SLY
13. Happy
SKINNY FABULOUS
14. So Long
NADIA BATSON
15. Soca Saved My Life
DESTRA GARCIA
16. Good
PATRICE ROBERTS
17. Games
NAILAH BLACKMAN
18. Run Wid It
MR KILLA
19. Isaac Hunt
PROBLEM CHILD
20. Sometime 20 SN AUG 2019
LEAD PIPE X JUS JAY
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feature
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notting hill
Carnival WE COME FOR IT!
London’s carnival has become a year-long affair, an unstoppable cycle of designing and making, launching and promoting, of feteing and steelband practice, of planning, negotiating, debating and celebrating. Who’s to say when it begins or whether it ever really ends?
T
WORDS | STEPHEN SPARK
he weekend’s first official event is the Calypso Monarch finals on Thursday 22 August at The Tabernacle, Powis Square. Calypso is topical social commentary in song; it can be funny, scurrilous, irreverent or deeply serious. This year’s calypsos cover all bases, and there’s never been a greater variety of musical styles. Watch the ACASA calypsonians (including defending monarch De Admiral) battle it out on stage, backed by the brilliant ABC Band and the Divettes – unmissable! On Saturday evening head to Horniman’s Pleasance off Kensal Road for Panorama. There’s nothing more thrilling and elemental than a mighty steelband at full power, displaying the arranger’s skill and the players’ discipline and virtuosity. You can vote online for your favourite band in the People’s Choice competition. Listen out for new entrant Tottenham’s Pan Nation. Be sure to arrive early, because tickets are limited - the money goes to the steelbands, so you’ll be supporting the culture. The space has been rearranged this year, providing a better view for people on the grass and a stand either side of the performance space. It’s either the start of a new day or the end of a long Saturday night. J'Ouvert (‘daybreak’ in Antillean kreol) reminds us of Carnival’s roots. At Emancipation in 1834, freed slaves took to the streets and mocked their former masters in ‘ole mas’ – chains, bats, devils, mud, oil and hypnotic rhythms beaten on iron or bottle and spoon. These days it’s a celebration of freedom from convention (and cleanliness) with eruptions of paint and powder turning revellers into surreal artworks chipping down Ladbroke Grove to steelpan music. It
all starts at 6am at the junction of Canal Way and Ladbroke Grove. Children’s Carnival has a treasured place in Notting Hill’s history. It was at a children’s street party in 1964 that Russ Henderson, Sterling Betancourt and Ralph Cherrie “made a little round” with their steelpans. Two years later they led the parade opening Rhaune Laslett’s Notting Hill Fayre, and London’s carnival was born. Children who aren't playing mas can make accessories at a carnival arts workshop in Powis Square, where there’s a music stage and free Innocent smoothies. Later in the day, J'ouvert-style adult ‘dutty mas’ bands take to the road – the dress code is powder and chocolate! Bank Holiday Monday is Carnival Day. With music stages, food stalls, 38 licensed sound systems and mas bands circulating around the perimeter, it’s pretty full on. Our advice: go early and leave early, don’t fret if you lose friends or phone signal, wear comfortable shoes, travel light and drink plenty of water (refill your bottle for free at one of the water stations). The best way to ‘do’ Notting Hill Carnival, though, is in a mas band. It’s far more fun and less hassle than being a wallflower on the pavement. You’re way too late if you dreamt of dazzling the world in an Instagrammable frontline costume, but some bands may still have T-shirts; check online. In most cases, what you’re paying for is access to a full-day exclusive party – one we’re confident you’ll never forget. Enjoy the bacchanal!
FOR MORE CARNIVAL VISIT SOCANEWS.COM SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019 23 23
feature
MELISSA SimonHartman
MELISSA HAS BEEN PRODUCING SOME FABULOUS COSTUMES OVER THE YEARS, AND I’M SURPRISED THAT WE’VE NEVER INTERVIEWED HER BEFORE. CLEARLY AN OVERSIGHT – AND ONE WE NEEDED TO RECTIFY.
COSTUME: 'DREAMS OF KUKULKAN'. BAND: RELEASE D RIDDIM MODEL: ANDREA WALLACE. MAKEUP: KIMBERLEY NGUYEN. PHOTOGRAPHER: JAMES BELL
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"I am the definition of a ‘crazy creative’."
S of mas.
o, after carefully crafting some questions, we pinged off an email. Here’s the result: some of what you’ve always wanted to know about one of today’s most fabulous, avant garde designers
We’ve seen some truly fabulous carnival creations designed by you. Do you have a background in art, fashion or design? Thank you so much. Yes, I studied General Art & Design at Barnet College. Following that, I completed a degree in Theatrical Costume at the University of the Arts London/London College of Fashion. When and how did you first become involved in carnival? My father passed away when I was six, from cancer, and a friend of my mother’s introduced us to a band called Elimu shortly after his passing. The timing could not be better, as we instantly became part of a new family which is what the two of us really needed during that difficult time. I played an Individual/section leader in my first year of participatng. I was a little Jab Molassie and went crazy on the road, to the point of passing out. Carnival was life from then onward <laugh>. How did you come to design your first carnival costume – and when was that? I was very young. I would be lying to you if I say I can remember the exact age I was, but my first experience with Carnival was from the age of seven, with Elimu. I was in awe of the band’s head designer at that time and became her little shadow, following her every move even if it was just to sprinkle glitter for her. Elimu encourages young people to get involved in carnival arts, so at a young age I designed costumes that entered the Gala competition, which was a great event held back in the day, and my designs always made a place. Those were the good old days . . . <sigh>. I continued to design costumes until 2001, and took a 14-year break due to complications with rheumatoid arthritis. When I returned to designing mas in 2015, I was deemed a newbie <laugh>.
Where does your inspiration for costumes come from? Any and everything - apart from other carnival costumes <laugh>. Not for any other reason, apart from that I believe it is important to look beyond your peers for inspiration if you want to remain original and authentic in your artform. I had to study historical costume as part of my degree, so period costumes often inspire me. However, everything I create is linked to Africa, even if it is not immediately obvious or related to the theme. What is your process when you’re designing? What comes first: the idea, a sketch, the colours, materials..? I do not have a set process. I am the definition of a ‘crazy creative’. Mostly, I would have an idea then sketch it prior to production, but I have also gone straight into production without an initial concept and just let the design take me into the direction it wants to go. Unusual textures found in everyday items often trigger ideas. You had your own band, Legion Mas, for two years, but then announced that you would no longer bring a mas band but concentrate on individual pieces; why is that? A new addition to my family is the main reason <laugh>. I have two young children, and that alone is time-consuming. Managing a band takes a great deal of work and commitment, and in all honesty Legion has always been more of a ‘brand’ than a ‘band’. I have the utmost respect for all bandleaders, especially the ones who also design and produce the mas as well. A successful band needs a strong and reliable team, and that is something that takes time to build, it cannot be rushed. I also wanted to resurrect my old label, Simon-Hartman London. Within the first few weeks of doing so, I was inundated - which was terrific, however I had to place a temporary pause before it got to a point where I could not deliver a good service or meet my client expectations. Doing Individual costumes right now allows me to share my art without the added stress of managing the logistics of running a band.
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feature
IMAGE CREDITS: THEME: MANE FOR TEARS MAS. COSTUME DESIGN: MELISSA SIMON-HARTMAN. PHOTOGRAPHY: LUKE NUGENT. HAIR: PATTY LUSH. MAKEUP: CALLISTA LORIAN THOMAS. MODELS: MAURISA COLEMAN AND CHARLIE FLETCHER
Who are you designing for at Notting Hill Carnival this year? I designed a limited collection of Individual costume for Release D Riddim, Mangrove and Tears mas bands this year. Might we see Legion Mas on the road again? When and IF the time is right <wink>. You designed some individual Monday wear costumes for Trinidad Carnival this year; in particular, we saw Nailah Blackman in your edgy gold creation. How did that come about? Nailah’s stylist, Risanne Martin saw my Monday wear launch on IG, and loved it. Risanne also wore one of my Monday wear pieces, which were a great honour.
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We’ve also seen a recent costume for Crop Over designed by you. Do you have plans to design more costumes for other carnivals? I am doing a section for Trinidad Carnival 2020. I was approached by three large bands over there; I consider it a huge compliment to know that my work is being recognised in my mother’s birthplace. Ultimately it came down to doing a section for one band, which I am extremely excited about. I love their vibe, peaceful and down to earth energy, and the theme is very me. Do you have plans that you can share with us for what comes next? I have learned that it is best to work in silence, so ‘NO’ <laugh>. Seriously, my immediate plans are to develop my label Simon-Hartman London. I have neglected it on several occasions due to being eyes deep in carnival costume production. I really want to see it flourish, as I have some very exciting plans for it.
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pan
Steel Bands
I
THE POWER OF STEEL
n 1966, steelpan turned Notting Hill’s first parade into a Caribbean carnival. You’ll find out why at Panorama, the perfect occasion to experience the majesty and subtlety of this extraordinary instrument.
If you’ve been once, you probably won’t need persuading to go again. If you haven’t – well, one of the best of all carnival experiences still awaits you. The sound of some of Britain’s premier steel orchestras at full strength is not easily forgotten; a simple ‘ting - tingting’ at the start heralds a thrilling aural explosion, mingling with the sights and smells to overwhelm the senses. The carnival app gives the audience a chance to vote at Panorama, so your opinion makes a difference. The £10 (less for children) entry charge goes directly to the bands that make the evening such a thrilling occasion for pan fans. The following is a list of bands taking part in this years Panorama competiton. The list shows the Band name, Song name and arranger.
FOR MORE INFO VISIT
SOCANEWS.COM 28 28 SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019
CROYDON STEEL ORCHESTRA S. Savannah Grass A. Arranger. Paul Dowie EBONY STEELBAND S. Trouble In The Morning A. Duvonne Stewart MANGROVE STEELBAND S. Savannah Grass A. Arranger Andre White METRONOMES STEEL ORCHESTRA S. So Long A. Leroy Clarke PAN NATION STEEL ORCHESTRA S. Iron Love A. Chris Storey PHASE ONE STEEL ORCHESTRA S. Savannah Grass A. Stephen Phillip
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events Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where to go, or what to do? Our events listing is all you need to keep you in the know. We cover predominately London, but whenever or wherever we hear about a soca fete or caribbean related event, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll list it. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a promoter, then to ensure you get listed please send us your event details and a print copy of your flyer to events@socanews.com. For full event listings, please visit socanews.com/events.
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events
ING VENTS LIST Y RNIVAL E B D E R E YOUR CA W IS PO
Don’t know where to go, or what to do?
Our events listing is all you need to keep you in the know. We cover predominately London, but whenever or wherever we hear about a soca fete or caribbean related event, we’ll list it. If you’re a promoter, then to ensure you get listed please send us your event details and a print copy of your flyer to events@socanews.com. For full event listings, please visit socanews.com/events.
MON 12 AUGUST CHILDREN AND PARENTS’ CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION (CAPCA)
NOTTING HILL NURSERY CARNIVAL @Kensington Memorial Park, St Marks Road, W10 6NP. Time 11am-5:30pm.
THU 15 AUGUST TRINIBOI JOOCIE
TRINIBOI JOOCIE DECADE CONCERT
@The Prince of Wales, 469 Brixton Road, SW9 8HH. Time 7-11pm. Price £8-£12.
FRI 16 AUGUST ASSOCIATION OF CALYPSONIANS & SOCA ARTISTS UK (ACASA)
UK GROOVY SOCA MONARCH FINAL
@The Tabernacle, 34-35 Powis Square, W11 2AY. Time 7:4511:30pm. Price £12-£36. LAVA EVENTS
LAVA – SUMMER OF SOCA @ The Long Acre Bar, 1 Upper Street Martin's Lane, WC2H 9NY. Time 9pm-3am. Price £5-£10.
SOCA LOCO
CARNIVAL STARTER DAY PARTY
@E1 Unit 2, 110 Pennington Street, E1W 2BB. Time 2-10pm. Price £5-£20. DJ MARKEE
SOCA ADDICT
SAT 17 AUGUST
@Elephant West, 62 Wood Lane, W12 7RH. Time 3-9pm. Price £40-£60.
PARTY LIT UK
SUN 18 AUGUST
PARTY LIT DAY FETE
@The Lighthouse Bar and Club, 62 Rivington Street, EC2A 3AY. Time 2-10pm. Price Free.
DRIPPIN WET SOCA FOAM PARTY
@Fu Manchu, 15-16 Lendal Terrace, Clapham, SW4 7UX. Time 1-6pm. Price £10.
MAWNIN
@The Silver Building, Dock Road, E16 1YZ. Time 9am-2pm. Price £15-£20. EBONY STEELBAND
BLOCKORAMA
@Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance Park, W10 3DH. Time 1-8pm. Price Free. SN AUG 2019 31
events
ING VENTS LIST Y RNIVAL E B A D C E R R U E YO IS POW
WESTSIDE ENTERTAINMENT
ASSOCIATION OF CALYPSONIANS & SOCA ARTISTS UK (ACASA)
MINGLE THE VERY SEXY BEACHWEAR BOATRIDE
UK CALYPSO MONARCH FINAL
@River Thames. Time 2-6pm. Price £30-£35.
@The Tabernacle, 34-35 Powis Square, W11 2AY. Time 7:4511:30pm. Price £12-£36.
TRINI LIMERS
ANNUAL CRICKET LIME
REMEDY EVENTS
@Northwood Cricket Club, HA6 2NP. Time 1pm. Price Free.
AMNESIA CARNIVAL CRUISE
LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL
LEEDS WEST INDIAN CARNIVAL ANNUAL KING & QUEEN SHOW 2019 @West Indian Carnival Centre, 80-82 Sheepscar Street, North Leeds, LS7 3AF. Time 7:3010:30pm. Price £12-£30.
@Notting Hill Arts Club, 21 Notting Hill Gate, W11 2JQ. Time 6:30pm-12am. Price £10-£15.
THE ART OF CARNIVAL
RELEASE D RIDDIM
GLOW CARNIVAL THURSDAY
@Bankside Vaults, 1 Invicta Plaza South Bank, SE1 9UF. Time 6pm. Price £15. NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
THU 22 AUGUST
SPECIALIST ENTERTAINMENT
SOCALICIOUS
@The Hatch Club, 23 Lewisham Way, SE14 6PP. Time 11pm-5am. Price £8-£10.
FRI 23 AUGUST
BESSLIME LONDON – CARNIVAL ISLAND
DJ PRIVATE RYAN
SOCA STARTER UK
@Cargo, 83 Rivington Street, EC2A 3AY. Time 6pm-12am. Price £15.
@ TBC. Time 8am-1pm Price £40.
ONE FAMALAY - THE CARNIVAL CONCERT
BUSSPEPPER PROMOTIONS
CARNIVAL COOK OUT
@Fire, 39 Parry Street, SW8 1RT. Time 10pm-5am. Price £10-£20.
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
BESSLIME EXPERIENCE
@The Exhibit, 12 Balham Station Road, Balham, SW12 9SG. Time 6pm-12am. Price £10-£15.
_UCK WORK LONDON
@Festival Pier, Lambeth, SE1 8XZ. Time 12:30-6pm. Price £40.
@The Prince of Wales, 469 Brixton Road, SW9 8HH. Time 3pm. Price £15.50.
SUNSET (THE ULTIMATE CARNIVAL EXPERIENCE)
DESIRE AND FRIENDS
SWEAT IN THE CITY
SCORCH
SYNC PARTIES
THE ART OF EVENT
ADDICTED 2 FITNESS
@Festival Pier, Lambeth, SE1 8XZ. Time 11am-3pm. Price £20.
EMURGY
WED 21 AUGUST
@White Post, Building 4, Schwartz Wharf, 92 White Post Lane, E9 5EN. Time 6-11pm. Price free.
D’INTERNATIONAL SOCA BOAT
@Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, SW1A 2JH. Time 6pm-2am. Price £25-£35.
@ Shaka Zulu, Camden Market, Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8AB. Time 9:30pm-3:30am. Price £15.
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
MARTIN JAY
@ Troxy, 490 Comercial Road, E1 0HX. Featuring Machel Montano, Skinny Fabulous, Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons & Mr Killa. Time 7pm-2am. Price £40-£60.
FOR MORE EVENT INFO
PON DE ROOFTOP 2019THE CARNIVAL ROOFTOP PARTY AND GRILL
FLAGZ SOCA FETE
CARNIVAL FRIDAY: NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 2019 STARTER @Oval Space, E2 9DT. Time 10pm-6am. Price £10-£20. VINCY ALLIANCE MAS BAND
NO RULES
@Signature Night Club, Paul’s Row, High Wycombe, HP11 2HQ. Featuring Caspa G, Wetty Beatz, 2 Kool Kris & DJ Q. DJs Hothead, DJ King Kofi, Vybes & Scientist Sounds. Time 10pm-4am. Price £10-£20. RELEASE D RIDDIM
HELLO CARNIVAL
@Scala, 275 Pentonville Road, Kings Cross, N1 9NL. Time 10pm. Price £15. BUSSPEPPER PROMOTIONS
BACCHANAL FRIDAY
@Electric Brixton, SW2 1RJ. Time 11pm-5am. Price £15-£25. NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
SAT 24 AUGUST
RUK-A-TUK PROMOTIONS
PREMIUM BREAKFAST CRUISE
@ All Bar One, The O2, Greenwich, SE10 0DX. Time 8am-3pm. Price £55-£62.
SOCANEWS.COM/EVENTS 32 SN AUG 2019
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events
ING VENTS LIST Y RNIVAL E RED B YOUR CA IS POWE
DJ TATE
767 ENT
RELEASE D RIDDIM
@Colesdale Farm, Northaw Road West, Northaw, EN6 4QZ. Time 1-8pm. Price £25-£75.
@BLOC, Unit 3, Autumn Yard, Autumn Street, E3 2TT. Time 11pm-6am. Price £10-20.
@Scala, 275 Pentonville Road, Kings Cross, N1 9NL. Time 10pm-6am. Price £10-£25.
DREAMLAND JOUVERT 2019
SHIPWRECKED CARNIVAL
SHIPWRECKED IN ANCIENT GREECE
@TBC. DJs D’Soca Lyon, DJ Private Ryan, DJ Markee & Joni Rich. Time 5pm-12am. Price £65-£115. BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF STEELBANDS (BAS)
UK NATIONAL PANORAMA STEELBAND COMPETITION
@Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance Park, W10 3DH. Time 6pm. Price £3-£10. EBONY STEELBAND
PANORAMA AFTER PARTY
@Venture Community Centre, 103a Wornington Road, W10 5YB. Time 9pm-3am. Price £5. EVENTBUZZ ENT LTD
SOCA REGGAE LUTION
@ Favela, 65 Crowndale Road, NW1 1TN. Time 9:30pm-4am. Price £5-£20. BUSSPEPPER PROMOTIONS
TRIBE IGNITE LONDON @Revolution, 140-144 Leadenhall Street, EC3V 4Q. Time 10pm-4am. Price £15-£25. GET MAD ENT
SCANDALOUS SATURDAY @229 The Venue, 229 Great Portland Street, W1W 5PN. DJs D’ Enforcas, DJ Spawny, DJ Greg & DJ Tate. Time 11pm-4am. Price £15-£25. SUN BAILANTE
CARNIVAL ENERGY
@E1, Unit 2, 110 Pennington Street, E1W 2BB. Time 11pm6am. Price £13-£20. 34 SN AUG 2019
BOUYON MEETS DENNERY SEGMENT
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
SUN 25 AUGUST
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL QUENCHER 2019
SAT 31 AUGUST DOMILUCIAN PROMOTIONS
BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF STEELBANDS (BAS)
A TASTE OF DOMINICA & ST. LUCIA
@Sainsbury’s roundabout (junction of Ladbroke Grove and Canal Way). Time 6-9am. Price Free.
SUN 01 SEPTEMBER
J'OUVERT
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
CHILDREN'S DAY
@area bounded by Harrow Rd (N), Chepstow Rd (E), Westbourne Grove (S) and Ladbroke Grove (W). Price free. Time 11am-8pm (sound systems shut down at 7pm). GET MAD ENT
CARELESS SUNDAY
@229 The Venue, 229 Great Portland Street, W1W 5PN. DJs Cheeks MX, Gaza Priince, Release D Riddim, DJ Fearless, King Rumer & Supa Nytro. Time 11pm-3am. Price £15. SUN BAILANTE
THE HOT CARNIVAL PARTY
@Heaven Night Club, 17 Villiers Street, WC2N 6NG. Featuring Live Motto. Time 11pm-6am. Price £13-£20. NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
MON 26 AUGUST NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL
ADULTS DAY
@area bounded by Harrow Rd (N), Chepstow Rd (E), Westbourne Grove (S) and Ladbroke Grove (W). Price Free. Time 11am-8pm (sound systems shut down at 7pm)
@Starlight Banqueting Suite, 300 Leabridge Road, E10 7LD. Time 10pm-4am. Price £15.
KIDZ KORNER UK
MESS FEST 2019
@Burlington Danes Academy, White City, W12 0EA. Time 1-6pm. Price £15. LONDON JERK FESTIVAL
THE LONDON JERK FESTIVAL
@ TBC. Time 12-11:30pm. Price £5. COME OUT TO PLAY
CARNIVAL COOLDOWN BOAT PARTY
@Tower Millennium Pier, EC3N 4DT. Time 2-6pm. Price £25-£30.
SUN 7 SEPTEMBER TALK YUH TALK
KAISO LIME!
@The Tabernacle, 34-35 Powis Square, W11 2AY. Time 7-10:30pm. Price Free BACK IN TIME PROMOTIONS
BIG PEOPLE PARTY
@Hilltop Community Centre, Crest Road, High Wycombe, HP11 1UA. DJs Saxon Sound System, Commander B & Junior B. Time 10pm-4am. Price £10 - £15.
FOR MORE EVENT INFO
SOCANEWS.COM/ EVENTS
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36 SN AUG 2019
mas
D DRYAD MAS | RE GNIAPPE LA . E G A IM
Mas Bands
NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 2019 LISTING
H
KEY | BAND NAME + THEME
ere at Soca News we strongly believe that everyone should play mas at least once., so we hope you won’t just spectate but also participate in this year's Notting Hill Carnival, on Sunday 25 and Monday 26 August. As an adult, you can choose to take part on either the Sunday, in dirty (‘dutty’) mas, which ranges from paint or powder to mud or chocolate, or the Monday, and don a pretty costume. Or, if you’re up to it - both! The following is a list of mas bands and sections and their themes for Notting Hill Carnival 2019. The majority of bands have stopped taken costume orders but you just never know. If that fails then there is always the option of 'fun mas' or a T-shirt.
ABIR MAS
BLOSSOM CONCEPTS
IG: abirmas abirmas.com
IG: BlossomConcepts blossomconcepts.com
NATIVE SPIRIT
ADDICTED MAS RAPTURE
IG: specialistent specialist-events.com/addictedmas
AIRAM TRIBE ISIS
IG: Airam_Tribe FB: AiramDesigns
EVOKE
CAPCA CHILDREN'S & PARENTS CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION
RED PIRATES OF THE CITY
facebook.com/Childrens-and-ParentsCarnival-Association-308261229255792
CARIBBEAN SESSIONS PASSION
ARAWAK
IG: CaribbeanSessions caribbeansessions.co.uk
IG: ArawakCarnival arawakcarnivals.com
CATONA’S GODS & GODDESSES CARNIVAL BAND
ONCE UPON A TIME
ASHANTIXKWEYOL GRACE
EL ELDORADO: KINGDOM OF GOLD
IG: AshantixKweyol FB: AshantixKweyol
CHANTIMELLE MAS
BACCHANALIA UK
IG: Chantimelle.Mas chantimellemas.uk
ALPHA
SPIRIT OF THE FOREST
IG: Bacchanalia_UK bacchanalia.london SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019 37 37
mas
CHOCOLATE NATION MAS
FUNATIK MAS
IG: ChocolateNationMas chocolatenationmas.com
IG: FunatikMas funatikmas.com
XTREME
OUTER SPACE
JAMBOULAY CARNIVAL ARTS
METAMORPHOSIS
jamboulaycarnival.org.uk
COCOYEA LONDON
GEMZ MAS INTERNATIONAL
KARNIVAL MANIA
IG: CocoyeaLondon cocoyea.com
FB: Gemz.Mas.INT gmicarnival.com
IG: KarnivalMania karnivalmania.com
SANKOFA
COLOURS CARNIVAL INCEPTION
IG: ColoursCarnivalLTD colourscarnival.com
D RIDDIM TRIBE
DREAMS OF A DEITY IG: DRiddimTribe driddimtribe.com
DBL VIBE TRIBE CALYPSO
IG: Vanisha2108 dblvibetribe.com
DYNAMIC MAS DIVINE
NEBULA
GLORIOUS BACKSTAGE ARTS
THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN FB: GBACarnival gba-carnival.com
HERITAGE SOCIAL ARTS AND DANCE GROUP ASKIA THE GREAT IG: Heritage_Roadshow heritageroadshow.co.uk
HOTWAX
MOTHER NATUREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ELEMENTS IG: Hotwax_Promotions hotwaxpromotions.com
KANDESCENT
LA TRINITY CARNIVAL CLUB CARIBS AND ARAWAKS IG: LatrinityCarnival latrinitycarnival.wordpress.com
LAGNIAPPE
SPIRIT OF THE FOREST FB: LagniappeUK lagniappe.co.uk
MAGNIFICENT MAS KWEIZA
IG: Magnificent.Mas
MAHOGANY CARNIVAL
MELTING POT - A CELEBRATION OF CULTURES IG: MahoganyCarnival mahoganycarnival.com
IG: Dynamic_Mas dynamicmas.co.uk
HYPE MAS
EBONY MAS
IG: HypeMas hypemasuk.com
MAKING CARNIVAL
IGNITE DE FETERZ MAS
IG: Masology_MakingCarnival masologymakingcarnival.com
IG: IDF_Mas ignitedefeterzmas.com
MANGROVE MAS BAND
INSPIRATION ARTS & TRINBAGO CARNIVAL CLUB
IG: MangroveCarnival mangrovecarnival.com
COLOUR MY SOUL, EBONY @ 50 THROUGH THE YEARS IG: EbonyMas ebony-steelband-trust.co.uk
ELIMU PADDINGTON ARTS MAS BAND
FLIGHT & FANTASY (ADULTS), WE R 1 (CHILDREN), KALEIDOSCOPE (FUN MAS)
PINK PASSION
CAPTURED BEAUTY
PEACE PIPE
FB: Elimu.Mas.Academy elimumasacademy.com
IG: InspirationArts.UK inspirationarts.co.uk
FLAGZ MAS BAND
INVADERS MAS
IG: FlagzMasBand flagzmasband.com
IG: InvadersMasUK invadersmasuk.com
FLAMBOYAN CARNIVAL ARTS
ISLAND MAS
WE ARE FLAGZ MAS
FLAMBOYAN IN FLIGHT IG: FlamboyanMas FB: TeamFlamboyam
FROLIC NATION FULL BLOOM
IG: Frolic_Nation FB: FrolicNation2018
EMINENCE
ASCENSO
IG: IslandMasUK islandmas.co.uk
JAMAICAN TWIST RETURN OF THE DOCTOR BIRD
FB: Jamaican-Twist-47162514857 jamaicantwist.com
FOR MORE INFO VISIT SOCANEWS.COM/MASBANDS 38 SN AUG 2019
SPECTRUM
AQUA
MAS WITH A DIFFERENCE KYOTO
IG: MWDCarnival mwdcarnival.com
MAS DOMNIK
A SIZZLING EXPLOSION IG: Duka_mas_domnik_uk_ duka.org.uk
MASANOVA DELIRIUM
IG: Masanova.UK masanova.co.uk
MASQUERADE 2000 ELEMENTS
IG: M2KMas twitter.com/m2kmas
Hotwax
THEME. MOTHER NATURE’S ELEMENTS | SECTION. EARTH
F
WORDS | KATIE SEGAL + PIC | LAWRENCE COLEMAN
ounded by Dennis George in 1979, Hotwax originally provided DJ services for mas bands in Notting Hill Carnival. In 1993 they became a mas band, and as such they’re committed to making as many people as possible masqueraders rather than spectators. Dedicated to promoting innovative carnival design and construction, Hotwax provides an annual mas camp in which costumes are professionally created, with considerable attention to detail. In addition to crafting costumes they remain true to their grass roots, continuing to run a thriving t-shirt band that promotes inclusivity and accessibility within carnival. For Children’s Day, Carnival Sunday 25 August this year, Hotwax are presenting the Earth section of their 2019 theme, with Tree of Knowledge for the boys and Flower of Freedom for the girls. They also have a teenage girls’ section, Butterflies of Creation. FOR MORE INFORMATION HOTWAXPROMOTIONS.COM SN AUG AUG 2019 2019 39 39 SN
mas
OMNIA CARNIVAL
SOUTH CONNECTIONS
FB: OmniaCarnival IG: OmniaCarnival
FB: SouthConnectionsMas IG: SouthConnections
OVIEYA MAS
SUNSHINE INTERNATIONAL ARTS
OMNIA
MAJESTY
IG: Ovieya_Mas ovieyamas.co.uk
PARADISE MAS UK BIRDS OF PARADISE IG: Paradise_Mas_UK paradisemasuk.com
PEOPLE OF PARADISE CARIBBEAN PASSION IG: PeopleOfParadise11
PURE LIME
CHOCOLATE IS THICKER THAN BLOOD IG: PureLime purelime.co.uk
RUMSHOP RAW LICQUER PEACOCKING
FB: RumshopRawLicquer rumshoprawlicquer.co.uk
SKATERS AT THE LONDON NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL 2019
COSTUME INCLUDES ELEMENTS OF HARLEQUIN LOOK IG: NHCarnivalLDN/ nhcarnival.org/skaters-at-the-londonnotting-hill-carnival-2019
TATU ISLAND
MASCYCLE ….AH MASS AH COLOUR ... ‘DROP IN THE OCEAN’ IG: sia_cafe sunshineiarts.co.uk
SUPREME CARNIVAL DESIGNS EXALT
IG: supremecarnival supreme-carnival.com
TEARS MAS MANE
IG: TearsMas tearsmas.com
TEMPO MAS
THE CALABASH CARNIVAL CLUB THE ELEMENTS
IG: CalabashM calabashmasband.com
CIRCUS
facebook.com/ groups/1589613424596771 socamassive.co.uk
IG: LondonSchoolOfSamba londonschoolofsamba.co.uk
KALEIDOSCOPE IG: SocaholicUK socaholic.com
40 SN AUG 2019
UCOM (UNITED COLOURS OF MAS) KALEIDOSCOPE
IG: UCOMCarnival unitedcoloursofmas.com
URBAN TOUCH FUSION
IG: UrbanTouchLTD FB: UrbanTouchCarnivalGroup
UTOPIA MAS UK
VIBRANCE
THE HEART OF HOPE = LOVE
THE LONDON SCHOOL OF SAMBA
SOCAHOLIC
FB: TTMudders nhcarnival.org/tt-mudders
THE BRIDE
SOCA MASSIVE FANCY SAILORS UK
IG: SocaSagaBoys socasagaboys.co.uk
MUDFULLNESS
IG: UtopiaMasUK utopiamasuk.com
IG: TheClementJamesCentre clementjames.org/
LUMIERE
TTMUDDERS
DUSK TIL DAWN
IG: SmokeyJoeRoadshow FB: SmokeyJoeRoadshow
SOCA SAGA BOYS
IG: TropicalIslesCarnival tropicalislescarnival.org
IG: TempoMas tempomasuk.com
SMOKEY JOE ROADSHOW
CLOUD 9
WAKANDA FOREVER - MORE CONNECTS US THAN SEPARATES US
FLAVOUR
THE CLEMENTJAMES CARNIVAL BAND 2019
ALLURE
TROPICAL ISLES
DANCING IN THE STREET
TROPICAL FUSION MAS
GEMS OF THE CARIBBEAN IG: TropicalFusionMas tropicalfusionmas.com
RAINFOREST
IG: CarnivalVibrance FB: VibranceMas
VINCY ALLIANCE MAS SUPER NOVA
IG: VincyAllianceMas vincyalliancemas.com
VOICE OF MAURITIUS
INDIGENOUS PLANTS & ANIMALS voiceofmauritius.co.uk
VYBZ MAS BAND
ENCHANTED GARDEN IG: VybzMas FB: Vybz.Mas
XTREME ST LUCIA UK CULTURAL MELEE
IG: IAmXtreme_Carnival xtremecarnivalband.co.uk
We have tried to make this list as comprehensive as possible, but may have missed a few. Email us info@socanews.com.
FOR MORE INFO VISIT SOCANEWS.COM/MASBANDS
ADVERTISING TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF SOCA NEWS
t. +44 (0) 333 012 4643 e. sales@socanews.com
SN AUG 2019 41
mas
OMNIA
ALL THE MAS YOU NEED
Before we talk about Omnia, I have to ask the question I think has many people wondering: what happened to Euphoria? EUPHORIA ceased operating in March 2019. Although we all loved and enjoyed our time, we felt it was time to move on. What’s the meaning behind ‘Omnia’? Omnia is Latin for ‘all’. This band is inclusive, and aims to provide a home for all individuals. When we sat down, one thing was clear - we wanted to create a band that everyone could call home. We saw the word and its meaning and it just clicked for us.
42 42 SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019
In a crowded mas band market, what does Omnia hope to add to Notting Hill Carnival 2019? We want to give our patrons a home for the two days on the road with Service and Quality being key to everything that we do and offer. Our product will be premium but also affordable, offering a range of prices to fit most budgets. We also know that our patrons want to party all day to the best music, so we are proud to say we only have the BEST international soca DJs with us. Security was also high on the list of things that masqueraders see as important, and as such we’ll be using two separate companies to ensure the safest environment. I guess you can simply say that we are endeavouring to offer the best of the best.
Are your costumes aimed at any particular demographic? We focused on price and style, and are proud that we are able to offer options for all body types and price ranges. Who is / are Omnia’s costume designer(s)? Marie Collette, who is well known and whose work we love. We also wanted to support local (UK designers) and upcoming talent; for this we turned to the fabulously talented Lana Sophia. We also have a “secret designer” who works with some of the biggest names worldwide but would like to remain anonymous. Who are Omnia’s key players? We have an amazing team - these guys are so passionate it would make anyone’s head spin. We also have support from some great people, entertainers, DJs and friends; if we were to list names we would need a lot more space! On paper, the band is managed by Daron, Mateen and Aaron, but they are just very small parts of this stunning thing we call OMNIA. What is the average price of an Omnia costume package? We have costumes starting from £140 up to £480. How many masqueraders are you expecting in the band on each of Carnival Sunday and Monday this year? Awww we got to keep some secrets to ourselves, but we do expect it to be big enough to be able to lose yourself in the moment but small enough that you can be called part of the OMNIA family.
You guys have Scorch attached to the brand. Does being attached to Trinidad brands make a difference when it comes to promoting mas at Notting Hill Carnival mas? Being attached to our friends at Busspepper, Scorch, LIL and others helps in many ways, not because they are or are not from Trinidad and Tobago, but because we can use their experiences to find solutions and create an exceptional product - we do not have all the answers and never will, but with the help of our friends in Trinidad and the UK our product will be outstanding. Finally, what would you say to anyone thinking of coming to play mas with Omnia? If this is your first time coming to Notting Hill, then do it! Get in a band, any band with your friends and just embrace it – the people make the experience. Of course, we also suggest that you go to a few events over the season as well. If you are a seasoned carnivalist, you already know to get in a band with your friends. OMNIA will be the place to be! We’ll bring that family vibe, we have the best DJs, the tightest security, great facilities and will deliver outstanding service and value for money.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OMNIACARNIVAL.COM
SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019 43 43
mas
TEARS MAS
DELIVERING A FIRST CLASS SERVICE Tears Mas has been on a long and exciting journey over the past nine years, since its inception in 2010. It’s become known as a band with unique style and great vibe, and has striven to provide masqueraders with a superior service from start to finish. We often see the name Morris Roots alongside Tears. Who or what is Morris Roots? Morris Roots is the natural hair/locs salon that sponsors Tears Mas. You’re playing ‘Mane’ for carnival 2019. What was the inspiration for this theme, and who are the designers behind it? The inspiration came from some fabric that Morris bought last year. Michelle Lucas came up with the name ‘Mane’. Tears worked with Michelle Lucas and Lana Richards - and Melissa Simon-Hartman, who has designed the Individual costumes for 2019.
FOR MORE INFORMATION TEARSMAS.COM 44 44 SN SN AUG AUG 2019 2019
What is the average price of a costume, and can anyone play with Tears? The average price of a costume is £200 to £465; this hasn’t increased for a couple of years. Tears Mas is for all people, all races and cultures. Of course you pride yourself on a first class service, but we’ve heard of some issues in the past. How do you address these problems? Like other bands, we try our best to ensure that everyone receives a good service - but it can be a challenge, especially when we also have a major concert on the Friday before carnival. We have a small window in which to build trucks and prepare for the gathering/press conference on the Thursday; the concert follows on the Friday, with an after party. It’s tough for a small team to execute such a large operation, and there can be an impact on the Carnival Army on Sunday, and on Monday as new masqueraders have flocked to the website to be part the Tears experience. What we try to accomplish is to gather everyone’s feedback and move forward, implementing ways to make everyone safe and have a great experience on the road for Notting Hill Carnival.
SN AUG 2019 45
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