‘Conscious vibes’ at Reggae on the Bay

It was indeed an evening of celebration as artistses, both local and international, graced the stage in musical and conscious harmony. Patrons were seen spreading their blankets, setting chairs on the greens, some even lying down, as they prepared themselves for a night of pure reggae entertainment.

Local reggae band Buzzrock opened the show from as early at 4 pm, with an enigmatic and instrumental performance. Their “conscious” display was well received by the thousands of fans who showed their support for the up and coming local group. After the band’s contribution, Buzzrock was given an opportunity to continue their on-set performance for the forthcoming local reggae acts.

Budding artiste, Levi Myaz, son of the late singer, songwriter and producer Richard “Nappy” Myers set the mood for the other local acts. Following his performance, local and world renowned songbird Jamelody filled the airwaves with his uplifting and inspirational voice. Then came the highly anticipated home grown act, “high grade professor” Marlon Asher, who did not disappoint.

Asher began his half-hour stint with favourite “Love of Jah”. The seasoned entertainer then brought to the stage flourishing artiste Stephanie Kalloo, who performed with Asher their collaboration, “Beautiful Day.”

Asher climaxed his performance when he belted out hits “Ganja Planter”, “Ganja Cowboy” and his latest addition “High Grade Professor.” Also bringing some conscious vibes to Chaguaramas were local deejays Nyahbinghi and Xcalibur.

Next up was the night’s other female act, Jamaican singer, songwriter and activist, Janine “Jah9” Cunningham, whose blend of rootsy reggae was received by the crowd.

After Jah9’s performance, scores of patrons moved to centre stage as band members of the group Steel Pulse began to set up their instruments. Within minutes, prolific and legendary reggae band grace the Trinidad and Tobago stage once more. Lead singer David “Dread” Hinds was fluent in his performance and belted out hit after hit, including “Bodyguard”, “Your House” and “Rally Round” to name a few. The veteran band played skillfully and created the perfect opportunity for patrons to “skank” along the greens and all around the venue. Band members then revealed to the attentive spectators that Hinds had celebrated his 56th birthday the previous Friday. Hinds was presented with a “belated birthday” cake on stage.

Steel Pulse continued to deliver and closed its energetic performance with classic dub “Roller Skates”. The crowd couldn’t get enough and Hinds and his band exited the stage knowing their message of love, equality and justice was well received.

Foundation Jamaican deejay, Rory of the Stone Love Sound System then wooed locals with some rare dubs and his unique style of dubplates. The legendary selector wasted no time and took Trinidad and Tobago back to “when dance was nice.” It was another masterful piece delivered by the internationally acclaimed deejay.

Then came the feature act. Cheers, whistles, shouts and screams soon pierced the air as Barrington Levy’s melodious voice captivated the O2 Park. Opening his one-hour long performance with hitsong “Living Dangerously” (originally done with Bounty Killer), Levy quickly had the thousands present singing atop their voices in unison. The dancehall icon also expressed his satisfaction to be back in his “second home” of Trinidad and Tobago as he went on to wish all fathers, a happy Father’s Day. He never let up and continued to voice hits like “Under Mi Sleng Teng”, “Work”, “Murderer” and the powerful “Here I Come”.

Although recording music for over three decades, Levy proved to Trindad and Tobago that he still has the vocal capabilities to which his fans are accustomed. Levy’s consistency with the mike also saw him belt out historic hits like “Black Roses” and “Broader than Broadway”. The crowd continued to sway and dance as they lapped up every bit of reggae thrown to them.

By 10.30pm, Levy began to wrap up his dominant performance and thanked patrons for coming out and celebrating Father’s Day with him. As Levy disappeared behind the stage, loyal fans were heard chanting “Barrington, Barrington” in full support of the artiste and his crafty style of singing.

This event marks the first-ever Trinidad and Tobago Reggae Festival. Organisers have pledged their support toward making the event an annual affair.