Blog 2.0

                          LIME Hells Gate Steel Orchestra

                                Antigua and Barbuda

Hells Gate Steel Orchestra won sixteen (16) National Championships:- 1949; 1953; 1958; 1959 (4 peat); 1960 (5 peat); 1964; 1967; 1976; 1990; 1991; 2002; 2004 ( Independence Panorama); 2006; 2007; 2009; 2011. Additionally, Hells Gate Steel Orchestra won two (2) championships in St. Thomas USVI, during the early 1950’s.

The other Steel bands that competed in St. Thomas USVI during the early 1950's were, Brute Force of Antigua/Barbuda, and a band from St. Kitts (I am presently researching the name of that band). Brute Force won the championship once.

NB. There were periods when no competitions took place.

The Members of LIME Hells Gate Steel Orchestra extends condolences to the family of Dr. Pat Bishop and the Steelpan fraternity.

I can recall that subsequent to adjudicating the Antigua and Barbuda National Panorama [1986 ], Dr. Pat Bishop returned to Antigua later that year to conduct a workshop, focusing on music thoery, arranging techniques, and performance. One evening, Dr. Bishop came to Hells Gate Panyard, unannounced. Our arranger Mr. Alan Micheal was present and we were rehearsing the "Hooked on Classics" medley, which Mr. Micheal had arranged for Hells Gate Steel Orchestra. Dr. Bishop approached Mr. Micheal and enquired of him about the piece the orchestra was rehearsing, and to our surprise, she dropped her hand bag on the floor and took over the rehearsals for a short while. At the end of her short stint, she admonished us to learn music theory and put it into practice. She then suggested to Mr. Micheal that he should assist us with music theory lessons. Dr. Bishop's kind assistance and sound advice continue to reflect in the many successes of Hells Gate Steel Orchestra today. Thank you Dr. Bishop.

It is important to note that in my opinion, Dr. Pat Bishop was the only Trinidadian adjudicator whose comments, subsequent to adjudicating a Panorama, were always objective; and her criticisms were always honest.

Farewell Dr. Bishop. Your will always be present in the music we play. Your sound and honest advice will live on for generations. Because of the many lives you have touched, and the musical heights you have taken the Steelpan to, Pan will live on forever. 

Rest in PAN.

Pat Bishop has died. She was erudite, fearless, marched to the beat of a different drum and loved up the Pan. Can't forget those days with Birdsong in the mid-seventies, when she drilled the band. When we hit the Panorama stage she fainted and didn't hear the band at all. RIP

Pat Bishop has died. She was erudite, fearless, marched to the beat of a different drum and loved up the Pan. Can't forget those days with Birdsong in the mid-seventies, when she drilled the band. When we hit the Panorama stage she fainted and didn't hear the band at all. RIP

TWO PAN GREATS FOR BALTIMORE COMIC CON 2011
 

Female pan pioneer Daisy James Mc Clean and Jason “Peanut” Isaac of ‘Pan Redemption’ fame will be special guests at the Baltimore Comic Con to be held this weekend (Saturday and Sunday) at the Baltimore Convention Centre, Downtown Baltimore, Maryland, USA. 

Jason “Peanut” Isaac

Daisy and Jason will be part of the touring caricature exhibition of cultural icons of Trinidad and Tobago in Pan, mas, calypso, dance, chutney and the performing arts. The exhibition is the brainchild of Trinidad Guardian cartoonist Keith “Keithos” Anderson and was shown in Port-of-Spain (2008), and San Fernando (2009).
 

Daisy James Mc Clean (standing, front right) - with Harlem Syncopators

The action starts at 10:00 a.m. each day and finishes at 6:00 p.m.; be sure to drop in and meet and greet these two Pan pioneers.  Jason is best known for his stunning pan compositions ‘Ten Commandments of Pan’ and ‘Pan Redemption.’ Daisy is the oldest living female Pan pioneer and is the co-founder of the Harlem Syncopators, a single-pan band. Jason will be playing several songs, including his own compositions, at the Comic Con.

_______________

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL AWARDEES

A significant award ceremony took place in the Pan world in London recently. The Pan Buzz is happy to report that my heart is always filled with pride when people get awarded for their contributions, however small.
 

Congrats go out to Pan greats Sterling Betancourt, Miguel Barradas, Alfred Toussaint, Lennox Totesaut, Lennox Langton, Russel Valdez, Michael “Natsi” Contant and Angela Christopher.
 

This was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the London Commonwealth Arts and Cultural Foundation, the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission and prime mover Sonny Blacks - a tireless worker for Caribbean Culture.
 

The official function was attended by Pan Trinbago’s President, Keith “Bald Head” Diaz and others. A similar function was held recently at the Shay Shay Tien Restaurant in Newtown, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad for five (the fabulous five) Dixielanders: George Ng Wai, Hady Lee, Mervyn Telfer, Billy Carpenter and Curtis “Wayward” Pierre. They invited Pan Buzz and other members to a scrumptious Chinese food and ‘ole talk’ by narrator Curtis Pierre. These men celebrated 60 years of the visit to London by Dixieland. At the function Dixielanders were in high praise of Sonny Blacks on whose expertise and contacts they had relied on to get settled, and get jobs.

_______________

THANKS AND PRAISES

It’s always good to give thanks and praise to all those who agree, and disagree, with the Pan Buzz. Those who have said wonderful things about the column, still going strong courtesy When Steel Talks (WST). I am having to start responding to members of WST that make sense. Those who wish to bring brawl, and brawl with Pan Buzz, take note. I won’t be engaging you in such nonsense. Time is too short for that. I am just off the boil with the TT $35 million Pan Controversy involving the G-Pan and PHI pan.  Be assured I am working behind the scenes.

_______________

FESTIVAL NOTES

Today, I launch the Festival Notes which will bring you up-to-date on the 2011 National Steelband Music Festival.  Please note it will be the
12^th Steelband Music Festival, Pan Is Beautiful Series.
 

Competition will be held in the various categories: ensembles, duets, single-pan bands and conventional orchestras. The finals will be held on October 27^th at the National Academy for The Performing Arts (NAPA). Panmen, Pan lovers give your support. The last Festival was held in 2008; Sagicor Exodus won.

_______________

On September 1^st, nominations for the PAN BUZZ AWARD (Third Edition) will be opened.  Readers can send in their nominees for the various categories.

• Top Ten Pan Songs/Pan Song of the Year
• Arranger of the Year
• Pan Organization of the Year
• Pan Heroes Awards

A panel of five usually mulls over these awards, and the panel (judges) decision is final, no ole talk, cussing, fussing and fighting will be entered into by the Pan Buzz and/or his associates. Now - nothing is given to winners of the Awards; only ‘mention’ on a global scale, or world stage. In time the Awards, will (hopefully) give a small token based on resources.
 

Now Pan Buzz was threatened and wrongly cussed out by a Pan Song Composer last year who felt his song was good enough to make the Top Ten. I too old to fight with anybody. I will have to call on God to help me. So fellas, have mercy on me please. Last year, When Steel Talks (WST) was voted Organization of the Year.
 

The Pan Buzz Awards will be announced on Friday December 9^th, 2011.

_______________

Until next week, wherever you are in Pan’s Diaspora, keep loving up The Pan.

I had once mentioned before, that i,m from a country of approximately 9 different culture and languages and as a steelpan player i played hundustani music[[[indian music//such as sohani raat/// dil liki deko,soja soha//bigi pokoe this is a type of folklore music in suriname///indonesian music,,,dutch music,,,soul,,,reggae,,,,r&b,,,waltz,,,music from the hare rama hare christna relegion,,,,now to make it more explicit once more,, MUSIC HAS NO BOUNDARIES,,,RELIGION,,,RACE,,,CULTURE OR RELIGION,,,it,s one and only one thing,,,tone for tone,,chord for chord,,and note for note,, written in only  in one international language, not in chinese,,,not in hindi,,,not in africanse,,,not in arabic,not in dutch,, in one language treble cleff,and bass cleff with the relevant notes,,,so for those that may be unware of what music really is, this is an eye opener, the steelpan playing indian music or otherwise remains to be one thing,,, ,it is music,,,,,,the only difference is whether some may understand or did pay any interest in listening before,for a musician ought to indulge in the playing of a variety of  songs from different culture, i,m always subject to correction.

Afropan Wins 2011 Pan Alive Title!!

As the end of the competition drew near, Pan Alive night, the members of Afropan setup their pans and got ready for their time to shine. After their hard work and late nights, the band was hoping to take back that first place title again, as opposed to the tie for third received years prior to this.

The announcer introduced the band, acknowledged their tribute flags for their 8 "Afro Angels", that had passed earlier this year, and conductor Terrell La Pierre got in his zone. Arranger, Earl La Pierre Sr. began the count in and with those final three taps, BANG! the first note dropped and the "Raging Storm" began. The next 8 minutes were filled with high energy, raw talent and sweet musical mayhem as the sounds of steel and rhythm poured into the hearts of all lucky enough to hear! As that final note was played both the crowd and players erupted in cheers of celebration and accomplishment; they knew their performance was near flawless and if nothing else, they executed a "Raging Storm" to match no other.

It was time to hear the results and with first and second place left to be announced the tensions grew thick and time seemed to stand still. After much anticipation, first runner up is announced....SALAH, which meant AFROPAN STEELBAND had done it! They successfully reclaimed first place and their 28th competition win since 1973! Players & supporters began to run from wherever they were back to Lamport Stadium! "AFROPAN! AFROPAN! AFROPAN!" echoed through the air with utter excitement and a sense of community surrounded the band as other steelbands extended their hands in congratulations for a win well deserved! As part of their celebration, the band members sang out their rendition of "Raging storm" inside Lamport stadium before moving the party back to the panyard for their J'ouvert celebrations.

Afropan Steelband "The People's Band" would like to acknowledge arranger Earl La Pierre Sr., conductor Terrell La Pierre, their 8 "Afro Angels" whom continue to bless the band daily and all of the players and supporters; for without the dedication and contribution of everyone this win would not have been possible or half as sweet!

Find more photos like this on When Steel Talks

Time to Re-dedicate Ourselves...

Yet another Steelband Month has rolled around. Today I want to beg steelband lovers everywhere to support the Pan like never before. Support Pan Trinbago and other promoters’ Pan events; not only this month but throughout the year.
 

If you ask me why the Pan Buzz likes Steelband Month; it is because it offers us the opportunity to rock back and take stock of our attitude towards the Pan and the Panman. You see me? I am not going to beat the dead horse called ‘respect;’ but what I’ll do is call on Pan people to look in the mirror and rededicate ourselves to Pan development... and defence. The Pan has not truly been liberated; there is still a struggle on, but only in Trinidad and Tobago; and not the wider world, that is increasingly looking to Pan and its financial benefits.
 

We in Trinbago are bumping our gums and behaving like beh behs (imbeciles); sometimes I feel we don’t know better. There is a constant battle with Panmen and deejays at events, and those who feel the Pan is still - and forever will be - a noisy instrument.

Apparently Pan is not a priority with Minister of Culture (forget the “multiculturalism”) Winston “Gypsy” Peters. Here you have a minister of culture at a public function on the eve of Emancipation, calling for “respect the calypsonians.” A Minister of Culture should not be calling for respect for one section of culture of which he is a member. Calypsonians have separated themselves into two camps; those who sing for their political supper, and those who have stayed true to the artform. Why didn’t Peters call for respect for the Panman also? No. He waged a stupid war against panmen earlier this year over some petty change stipend. He is not aware that Pan and calypso are brothers and sisters? Both were born out of struggle and had to fight every inch of the way for acceptance by society. Doesn’t he know their similar histories?

However, Pan Trinbago must be congratulated on this significant milestone... Steelband Month 2011.

_______________

START WITH TERRY AND PEPE... JOINTLY
 

Two concerns have been plaguing my mind, and I wish Pan Trinbago could address them. Firstly I wish to suggest to Keith “Bald Head” Diaz and his crew that at the awards ceremony they launch the International Panman Of The Year Award. This is necessary to rope in our foreign brothers (not only local) as Pan is a world thing. Awarding local contributors is great, but we need to widen the scope. We have to start thinking differently.
 

I think two individuals who should be honoured are Terrence Noel and the evergreen Pepe Francis (pictured above). Both men have done much to establish Pan in England, and their efforts cannot be delinked. With the wide international spy network of Pan Buzz, I can always give Pan Trinbago a name or two deserving of honour. And don’t doubt me there are many. Pepe’s and Terry’s contributions have been so effective, that Pan, despite its struggles, is now accepted as part of British culture.

_______________

BADJOHN DAY -PART OF PAN’S HISTORY
 

Narrow-minded panmen have attacked Pan Trinbago’s President Keith “Bald Head” Diaz over Bad John Day - that one day when the old gringos of Pan travel down memory lane, retracing their battles in defence of Pan...or turf. These stories, although filled with gore, cannot be ignored. They are a part of steelband history whether we like it or not. They are stories of iron bolts, cutlasses, bell-bottomed pants, two-toned shoes, white-handle razors and men with names that could make Captain America cringe. Names like BOLD FACE, ONE MAN, CUT-OUTA, WHITETY KINKAID, PINK EYE, LITTLE AXE, GOLD TEETH, BARONG and others. Right now I gettin’ frighten just writing dem fellas names. Ah trembling. Did you know that Pan Buzz escaped being chopped up like beef when Tokyo attacked Casablanca at the corner of Frederick and Duke Streets in Port-of-Spain? There I was in the front row, merrily playing my double tenor when bottle splintered on the rack. I didn't wait, I was off to the races... leaving a trail of brown manure.

_______________

condolences
 

Condolences to the families of Aldwyn “Chow Lee” Chow Lin on, and the wonderful Pan researcher Gideon Maxime. I have never met both men formally, but I know of their tremendous contributions. Chow Lee was associated with the early Silver Stars and could be ranked as one of the ‘Chinee’ in Pan, as well as the Chan brothers and my old pal Hady Lee of Dixieland. Gideon, on the other hand, distinguished himself as a meticulous researcher, and knowledgeable commentator on Panorama. I will miss his commentaries.
 

Guys, rest in Peace.

_______________

Until next week, wherever you are in Pan’s Diaspora, keep loving up The Pan.

Steelbands must commit to Music Festival

Every time the Steelband music festival comes around I am filled with trepidation. Now - you might ask how a fearless man like Pan Buzz could be filled with fear. It has to do with the poor turn-out and the lack of commitment of government agencies - The Ministry of Arts and Multiculturalism, the Tourism Development Company and hypocritical panmen, who prefer to smoke a “10-piece” (weed) than support the festival. And that’s not all; the big bands, by their very selfish attitude, have contributed significantly to the demise of the Festival.
 

Two big bands that could make the festival a thing of beauty, WITCO Desperadoes and Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars - both past winners - have been ducking the Festival for flimsy reasons. My spies tell me the prize money is not attractive as the National Panorama’s, hence the reason panmen are reluctant to participate. Then there is the question of indiscipline in some bands, because some panmen and their cliques run the bands, not the executives - and who don’t like what I am saying it’s their damn business. Everybody knows the Pan Buzz tells it like it is. I don’t owe anybody, only the bank. Sagicor Exodus and TCL Skiffle Bunch have been consistent; I say hooray to them. Bptt Renegades, Caribbean Airlines Invaders and Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove, like lame racehorses, have been in-and-out performers. There are 7,000 panmen, and you want to tell me the 2008 Festival buss; and these same panmen quick to wash their Listerine mouths on Pan Trinbago.
 

How do they want the festival to grow when their bands don’t participate? The big bands, too, should know that their presence will make the sponsorship work easier, and Keith “Bald Head” Diaz and his team don’t have to fart like an old engine to get help. They [big bands] have a responsibility to making the show grow, and not staying on the sidelines. They have got to look at the bigger picture and commit to the Festival. The last time Despers participated in the Festival was 1992 when the band won.
 

Let’s face it; the 2008 Festival was pathetic; it was more like a funeral, than a celebration. One deceitful panman blamed the high price of admission, although it was a quality show. When I started to fart on him, he had to run for cover. These same panmen buy their weed et al, attend shows by Jamaican acts, but don’t find the price high. Anyway, August is Pan month; and October is Festival month. And both must be stoutly supported. As the weeks progress, Pan Buzz will update you on things Festival, and go down memory lane with great festival moments in Pan. Don’t miss it.

_______________

Use the works of Pan song composers

Everybody knows that the Pan Buzz does run he mouth like a river; but what they don’t say is that the Buzz offers solutions and ideas too. They quick to say I negative and vulgar, but they can’t touch me when it comes to defending The Pan. They too wotless!  However, I have one for Pan Trinbago and the upcoming Festival. I say let’s give Pan song composers their just desserts, or due if you prefer. Let’s choose the Test Piece from the brimming archives of songs that celebrate the Pan... Pan songs. We have a body of work sitting there gathering dust. Every year there are over 50 songs to add to the library. Now my Maths ain’t good, the only thing I could count is sheep. From Lord Kitchener in 1936 to Holman in 1972, the floodgates have been opened. I will like to propose six songs from which one could be chosen as the Test Piece, and adapted in the classical mode. Readers may want to submit their selections too.

Here goes:

• Harps of Gold:  Mighty Duke

• Pan Forever More:  The Original DeFosto Himself

• Pan Redemption:  Jason “Peanut” Isaac

• Symphony In G:  Lord Kitchener

• Ah Hearing Pan:  Mighty Shadow

• Oh Trinidad:  Ray Holman    (pictured, upper right)
  
  

Pan Trinbago, let’s forever give our composers pride of place, alongside the great masters Bach, Beethoven and others. There will always be room in our Festival, because Pan and the classics form a great relationship. As usual bands could play their tune-of-choice, and a classical piece. The Pan Is Beautiful XII series will be held in several categories: ensemble, soloist, single pans bands and conventional. Get cracking, Pan Trinbago.

_______________

MORE questions on the G-Pan /PHI controversy

It is with a very sad and heavy heart I return to the G-Pan and the Percussive Harmonic Instrument (PHI). Now I said it once, I will say it again, Pan Buzz intends to ask questions about the controversy until I fall sick. As I always say the Pan Buzz will not let go this topic until all parties come clean; they have to bathe in the river of truth. We are talking about TT 35 million smackers here, so don’t expect me to walk away. I am going to beat this topic like a drum, and I am in for the long haul.
 

I say Professor Brian Copeland must account. I am not accusing him of anything, so why is it so difficult for him to account? His integrity is on the line. The University of the West Indies (UWI) must state its role in this affair. If they playing bad, I am going to make this a social media campaign. I am warning all parties. Pan People around the world will have to intervene. This is taxpayers’ money we are talking about, Professor Sankat. I am not taking that. Calling Mr. Keith Maynard; say something. I want answers. I want answers. I won’t rest, this involves my grandchildren money. You know what 35 million could do in terms of Pan development?

As far as I am concerned and I said it on several occasions; the G-Pan is a work in progress. I have already pointed out that made-to-order drums are available in Europe. We should have a Pan lab humming 24/7. Young inventors could walk off the street and pursue their ideas, explore their ideas. Last week I named two inventors who have something to offer. Professor Copeland must say something and not ‘wish’ this controversy away. This is not a fairy tale; this is a serious matter.
 

UWI has stated its concern to monitor the controversy; this must not be allowed to fester like a sore foot. Professor Copeland: you have to say something. You can’t hide under a lawyer’s desk. I not taking that, I want answers:

• What is the unspent balance?  How much of the TT $35 million has been spent?  Where are the bills?

• Who is administering the fund (Payments)?

• UWI must explain its role in this sorry episode

• Who is responsible for the OVERSIGHT of these two projects? Was this a ‘bran tub’ exercise where disbursements were concerned?

• When can taxpayers expect a financial statement?

• Why were UWI students deceived into thinking it was a contribution, when it was in fact a commercial enterprise?

• How many G-Pans were sold? Why weren’t UWI students given a stipend for their creative energies? Why are they playing dumb, are they sworn to secrecy?

• Are they afraid of victimisation?

• What legal avenues are open to them to challenge for a share of the PHI pie?

• Have they signed over their creative rights?

• Is it true that the PHI pans are now being sold for TT $15,000?  If true, how many pans have been sold?

• Who owns Panadigm, and how is it legally constituted?

• Name the jurisdictions the Pans are registered, and in whose name(s)?

These are some of the questions I need answered. Is UWI’s Sankat playing dumb? Is Professor Copeland playing dumber?
 

Please be guided accordingly

The Pan Buzz is a lover of democracy, but when it gets crazy, it is a different story. I have been reading some of the comments relating to the Pan Buzz and am filled with wonder. Some people are coming up with their own ideas that Professor Brian Copeland tief this or tief that.
 

All the Pan Buzz is saying is: why should accountability be a problem concerning the TT 35 million smackers? The Pan Buzz could ask questions...can’t he? The longer several questions remain unanswered, the lack of transparency - the longer the cloud will hover over the G-Pan and the air of suspicion, malfeasance, (nice word, eh?); deceit also. For far too long we haven’t held our peers responsible, but lived in awe of their academia...not Pan Buzz.  UWI just cannot say it is monitoring the controversy and go hone. UWI must answer questions too. Commentators please be guided accordingly.
 

_______________

Wherever you are in Pan’s Diaspora, don’t forget to keep loving up The Pan.

THE G-PAN AND PHI...
More questions than answers
 

Panman Patrick getting orn like he eat barbed wire.

The controversy involving the G-Pan (Genesis Pan) and the Percussive Harmonic Instrument (PHI) reeks like a nasty fart in an elevator. Everyone is looking at everyone, and no one is saying anything, everybody is behaving dumb as the scent disturbs the nose.  Well I have news for all involved; the Pan Buzz is going to ask questions until I am blue in the face... and who vex lorse.
 

Readers of this column will know that The Buzz has been in the forefront of Pan development.  I have been crying out loud for years for Trinidad & Tobago to take the lead in Pan technology, putting our young, inventive minds to work.  From my perch, and wide and varied network, information reaches me on Pan development worldwide, even as I write.
 

I often castigated governments for not supporting Pan development, so when I heard about the developments taking place at UWI’s (University of the West Indies) engineering department under Professor Brian Copeland, I was so happy.  I started to fart like an old train engine, the one from the Last Train to San Fernando. Now, when I read all the tantana (bacchanal), it makes me sad.  I feel spat upon as this controversy festers like a sorefoot.
 

I have already explained why I think the funding for the project (TT $35 million smackers) was shrouded in secrecy.  All the while I was thinking this grand zaffire (old people word) was ketching its tail for funding.  With Pan development raging at UWI, I thought: here was a chance for the inventor of the bore pan, Denzil “Dimes” Fernandes, and the man who invented the Letterpan, to excel - but no such thing happened. They were ignored like a stale cornsoup. Now the mark buss, that the G-Pan and the PHI were the property of Copeland and company (cohorts), man start to run in lawyer office, rather than answer questions.  What makes this really bad is that the Government found out about this because a patent agent was asking for his money. 

Now I hearing from the greates’ non-playing panman that ever lived - Panman Patrick (Manning) - “don’t talk to me, talk to my lawyer.”  So who to talk to? Everything happened on Patrick’s watch.  But I have questions for Panman Patrick, Copeland and UWI jefes whose university has been dragged into this mud.  Both ‘Pans’ (G-Pan and PHI) have been registered in several jurisdictions.

Now there is talk that Pans are being sold for as much as TT $15,000.00. 

Now I am not so worried about the G-Pan, it is still a work in progress.

Talking about mud.  I am not mud-slinging, I am just asking questions.

Already one of the students who has worked on the project is voicing concern over the deceit of working on both projects as a contribution to the University and the country. It must be galling to know you are making a contribution to a group of men’s pockets.  However, here are some questions plaguing my mind, as I am going crazy:

• Who controlled the money for the projects?

• Who was responsible for the oversight of this project?

• How was the money disbursed:  through the Office of the Prime Minister, or UWI?

• Did UWI give out this money in tranches?

• Whose duty was it to check bills of expenditures?

• How much has been spent so far on the project?

• Is there an unspent balance, if so, how much?

• What payments, if any, were made to directors of the project?

• Will a national awardee hand back his award if found guilty of improprieties?

• Why are the key players hiding under lawyers, if everything is above board?

• Are there ghost banking accounts in foreign lands?  After all, these two projects cannot, by any stretch of the imagination, cost TT$35 million

• Are we playing with a stink bomb, if when fully exploded, several persons will have to run for their raincoats?

I intend to talk to students involved in the project, who feel deceived, and intend to mount a legal challenge for their share of the PHI pie; after all, it is their intellectual property too...
 

These are some of the many questions that need to be answered, because what my spies are telling me isn’t sounding too good... no wonder there is a mad rush for lawyers.

_______________

Until next week, wherever you are in Pan’s Diaspora, keep loving up The Pan

Can WHEN STEEL TALKS find out what is the situation with Labor Day/Jouvert Morning Steelband competition 2010? I spoke to Emlyn Harewood, the leader of the band DC Pan Jammers, which won the Bomb competition last year and he told me he saw the results of the competition on WHEN STEEL TALKS.

Emlyn told me that leading up to the competition, he received calls fom everyone, even the police, but after the competition, NADA! He has won aspects of the Labor Day/Jouvert Morning competition on at least three occasions and has never received any payments OR trophy inclusive of last year. WHAT IS GOING ON?

Emlyn told me that he is interested in the band participating in this year's competition but he is at a loss at what to do and who to contact. Mobilization costs to bring the band from DC are over $3,000 and of course there is the registration fee for the competition among other things. Please WHEN STEEL TALKS find out what is going on.

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I.

G-Pan giving me a gripe

Let me make myself clear, all the facts are not in so I won’t rush to judgment. As the old people would say, I won’t drink my coffee hot. But surely the Pan Buzz will raise a few things that have weighed heavy on the mind regarding the G-Pan and its funding fallout now sweeping the Pan world.  (pictured: NSSO (National Symphony Steel Orchestra) G-Pans at the launch of the Steelpan Museum, Port of Spain)
 

I am not afraid to say that is years I have been urging governments (past and present) to get involved in Pan technology, which I call Pan’s final frontier. Now former Prime Minister Patrick Manning take the basket, not because of Pan Buzz hailing him as the greatest non-playing captain of the steelband, but he recognized the need to brand Pan. Now If every Tom, Dick, Harrilal and Dhanolal want to claim Pan as their own it is fine by me; Trinidad and Tobago will always be the Mecca and mother of the steelband, fullstop.
 

One thing I hate is to get into petty arguments about Pan’s sovereignty...or ownership. Pan is the world thing. However, when I heard about the University of the West Indies team developing the G-Pan, I was happy like a posey. I jumped up and down like a frog. I endorsed the project with a capital E. When the team set to work, there was some talk in the listerine world of the steelband about who tief (my word) who Pan design. I say not me and that lacouray. Then the project, funded by ’Panman’ Patrick [Manning] took shape and was completed. I said Bravo, Bravo, although there was grousing by Panmen and tuners about the G-Pan.
 

I say I am not taking on the lacouray. I have my wife to take on, she only beating me up. My hands were tied behind my back. It was licks like lentil peas. You talk about licks. It was licks from she and the sweetman until I get black and blue and turned purple. I had to run and hide under the bed that they was making love on. That really hard. However, the Pan was launched with all the political and social fanfare, excluding trumpets, and people said their tah-di dha, and so on. The G-Pan had arrived.
 

Try as hard as I could to find out, there was always something secretive about the funding, some 34 million TT smackers, because anything Panmen have to get, it is judged against what other cultural arms get; then is bacchanal in bacchanal country.... I lie? Sat Maharaj bound to say something. and people with listerine breaths who hate Pan and the Panman… For them, Pan is a noisy instrument.
 

I often wondered how the money was disbursed if en grappe like coconuts, or like a roti shop. I often wondered if there were bills for the expenditures. I knew some skills would have to be bought by agreed prices. Were there invoices, or the age old payment system "hey pardner hold this." You know how Trinis do business.
 

Now I am not making joke with my grandchildren money (The Treasury). The same way I intend to defend Pan. So accountability and transparency are priorities. I want to see bills, bills everywhere. So you think is only deceased Arrow could sing about bills? Look, don’t get me blasted vex!
 

Now the Pan bacchanal big like Minshall band on a Carnival Tuesday, you hearing all kinds of things. This one saying this and that one saying that. Man running in lawyer office and thing, when all they have to say is: "I have Bills (invoices)," and not trying to muzzle voices. You see the Buzz intend to wait, because I want to know who get what for what; and who get what. Up to now I haven’t called anybody name. All I saying is Fie fie foo fum, just let me know what’s happening with my grandchildren money. My arse done old I could dead anytime.
 

I am sure there are people in the Pan World who want to spit (hawk thraw) a green cold on the Pan Buzz grave, but tell them I intend to live for 1000 years, and you know who vex.....lorse. I getting a gripe with this G-Pan thing, and the Percussive Harmonic instrument thing (PHI). I feeeling (my word) shame.
 

Now you noticed I am yet to deal with the crux of this matter the PHI (pronounced fie) at the centre of this storm. Now comes a letter from a UWI post graduate student, that when he worked on the two projects, he thought he was, now hear this.... serving his country and the university. Is there some deception here....somewhere, as PHI Pans are now being offered for sale? (More on this next week).

________________

THE RETURN OF THE KING

Now I am one man who don’t get involved in steelband argument. You see that, religion, politics, calypso and a red woman - is real trouble. But one of the questions often asked is “Will Earl “Barney” Rodney, Point Fortin’s favoured son, ever return to the Solo Harmonites?” Don’t ask Hue Loy, Harmonites unrelenting foot soldier. He does not have the answer, but he will love for that to take place and seal the deal... the final chapter in the reunification process. I, too, will like that like a curry goat and dhal. Before people say I does only talk about food, let me say yes, as long as I am not eating anything cooked by they mother, I cool. Nothing will please me more than to relive the memories of the late sixties when Solo Harmonites streamed across the Queen’s Park Savannah stage with pans like lentil peas. When “Barney” leggo on them, All Stars, Despers, Starlift and South Stars panmen used to run and hide... Hatters too. Now you must understand why this feeling of nostalgia overwhelms me. I am an emotional guy, I cry at weddings, funerals and when a hornerman getting licks. But on a serious note, time is right for a Rodney (pictured) return in 2012. The King of the Seventies can lead the fight from the east. He did it in 1968 (Wrecker), Play Mas (1971), St. Thomas Girl (1972) and Jericho (1974). He can do it again, can someone convince him?

________________

POULOURIE MISSILES 

People always digging up in my business. They always bad-talking the Pan Buzz. What they ent say, is because they forget to say. Now I does write this column from Houston, Texas; where I am taking a little breather with my only daughter, Tamu. I want a next one, Mia, but I don’t know if I’m able at age 60. The will is there; but not the equipment. Anyhow, I forget to tell couple people and they vex with me. Trinis does get vex for nothing, eh? I am at the age where forgetfulness could happen, I could forget to put on my pants. Since I am here, I lick down two shrimps roti already at Mohammed’s Curry Spot in Pearland. Now hear this, Mohammed does make poulourie big like golf balls. The United States could use them to pelt the Taliban in Afghanistan. They more effective missiles than roadside bombs. This weekend if she is spending the money, I intend to cuff down a goat with slight pepper, oh sh-t, not the animal, the roti. Talking about lick down, my daughter lick down too (almost)......a pedestrian.

________________

Ha, Ha, Ha; until next week, keep loving up The Pan wherever you are in Pan’s Diaspora, Bless

Global

SOUTH BAND HAS JASON “PEANUTS” ISAAC IN LIMBO

With Trinidad & Tobago National Panorama 2012 just six months away, arrangers are lining up behind bands. Caribbean Airlines Invaders Steel Orchestra expected to make no change, after arranger Arddin Herbert showed maturity with a fourth placing in the 2011 finals. He has redeemed himself and repaid Invaders’ faith in him. And boy, they have kept the faith since Arddin used to wear short pants without jockey shorts. Remember when you was a big man you never used to wear underwear until you reach 18? Remember? Don’t play you don’t know that. I went to school with a girl who used to wear a flour bag drawers. All of you must be saying Pan Buzz is a real macco. Yes! I really like Arddin’s spirited arrangement of “Doh Be On Dat,” a collaboration with Remy “Rembunction” Yearwood. I expect that both men will be coming again with a smasher.

________________

All is not well at Solo Harmonites Steel Orchestra, where, I think, arranger Yohan Popwell will be given a stay of execution. The jury is still out on his performance so far, although many believe he will strike like a mappipire.... but when? Yohan has promised much, but delivered little. You know Pan Buzz knows everything, even what goes on behind closed doors in people house, all because of my elaborate network of spies that span the pan world.

________________

Brooklyn-based Jason “Peanuts” Isaac is waiting on a call from a prominent south band. Right now the panist/composer and arranger is in limbo, and cannot commit to a band until he hears from the south bigwig; why treat him this way?  Can we be a bit more professional?
 

South bands have not been doing well for the past three decades, although southerners have kept the faith for years. They really have belly. Jason feels he can deliver, but he cannot wait a lifetime. What’s wrong with south bands, like they need a bush bath in Paradise Cemetery or what? You want to tell me Sando has produced some quality panists and pan arrangers including Lennox “Bobby” Mohammed and Steve Achaiba, Liam Teague, Dennis Smith, Tosca, the Bonaparte brothers, Ken “Professor” Philmore, Milton “Chicken Wire” Austin - and they cannot take a National Panorama?  IS BULLPISTLE THEY WANT all over they body. Who doh hear will have to feel in 2012, as my Grandma will say “they playing up in they coffee.” The wait for southerners has been too long. It like a plum tree in Tobago ...it overbearing. South panmen must rise to the challenge in 2012, or play violin. I done talk.
Now let me make myself clear, don’t keep blaming the judges for south failures......don’t.
 

PAN PEOPLE WAKING UP

I have always had a problem with Pan people and their ‘freeco’ mentality. I could never understand why a man would stand by a gate and have his ‘pardner’ call out: “You. You with the red cap come, come.”  Then he let you in free, although you have money in your pocket; so you buy a beer and bring it for the gateman. No, man, that can’t be right. Then you say you going to patronise the bar, you lowlife. When you do that you killing the Pan. I’ve always advocated that Pan people must put their money where their heart is, not mouth. So that is why I feeling happy like a posey, that enamel container that used to be under Grandma (and Grandpa) bed, when my spies tell me two Pan events made some dollars. The Pan Lovers International Fundraiser, and some private promoter doing a thing. When a Pan event buss, it is real tears. It does be sadder than an Indian movie. I’ve seen promoters hold they head and bawl like 49 Tarzans. Pan people, nothing does gladden my heart like when I eat cooked food, a curry goat with black-eye peas, and when I hear a Pan event score. Bless.
 

NO PAN IN THE MAS

People who know me will tell you I could eat a curry barbed wire and dhal and wash it down with a red Solo and ask for more, and don’t even bat an eyelid when I am defending the Pan. So while I am prepared to give Mr. Patrick Lewis and his organising committee the benefit of the doubt, and offer congratulations on yet another successful Caribfest presentation (I am referring to the Houston, Texas, USA Caribfest held last Sunday), I won’t be so kind when they leave out Pan in the mas. Now - I am not King Dotish, or Ma Backside son. I know these productions cost money like gobar (cow sh-t). You know I does try to educate my readers, and create my own dictionary, so bear with me. I never went to school, I went by the door. Then, too, I went to High School, a school a stilts. Ha! Ha! Ha! I ketch all yuh sleeping with that one. Guys, next time give Pan a play, on the after parade show. My spies tell me you gave even sexy Brazilian dancers a play - and no Pan, not even a one-tune panman. No man, we must do better.  Pan Buzz gives all yuh a bligh this time, you won’t be so lucky the next time!

________________

Until next week, wherever you are in Pan’s Diaspora, keep on loving The Pan.  You hear?