Trinidad & Tobago Guardian
Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Ray Holman’s recent concert series—Mama Dis Is Pan—staged at the Little Carib Theatre in Woodbrook (February 23-25), was more than a presentation of the sweetness of the instrument; it was a showcase of a formidable body of work by the pan master, a nostalgic journey through his life in the steelband, and a celebration of pan hits through the years —all rendered in a style all his own. In his unassuming manner, the white-haired veteran took the stage before his band of musicians on opening night, to lead them on pan through two laid-back yet vibesy sets. Unlike many steelband virtuosos, his playing was fully integrated with the band. Although he took several lovely solos, he never dominated the sound. The musicians— including Anthony Woodroffe (sax); Dean Williams (guitar); Brian Perkins (percussion); Kenneth Clarke (congas) Joey Samuels (drums); Mike Germaine (bass); and, Dereck Cadogan (keyboards)—did well, keeping the sound smooth, without letting it get boring. Also on the cast were several vocalists, including De Alberto, in his first local performance in 20 years, Kenny J and Jerelle Forde. Holman got things going with his Pan On the Move, the first “pan tune” ever written.
read more
Replies
Please let there be a DVD of this show, it would be a shame and a loss if there's no recording.
Ray Holman master and very good composer and orchestrator of the steelpan i can here pan on the move after all these years good teacher too
I was so sad to have missed this show, as I left Trinidad on Ash Wednesday for a week's rest in Tobago before returning to the UK.
I wonder if any recordings were made? I do believe Expats would buy the product CD or DVD or both.
his shows are always a real musical treat from a true genius of the instrument, please note 'pan on the move' was the first 'pan tune' for panorama, Ray himself has composed tunes previous to this, also tony williams of north stars, and maybe others of which I am not aware , only trying to keep the history correct. thks .
Thanks Ray for using my services on Skin Percussions of your Mama dis is Pan!!!!
It was a musical treat.A genius at work
a beautiful and enjoyable show by Ray many thanks