The Band Launch is a Month away! You Ready?
HARTS 2009 IS COMING
HARTS 2009 IS COMING
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Question and Answer With The Band Leader
Are there any camps/lessons/retreats offered for those that are interested in learning the art of mas-making?
Not any that I've heard of. But if anyone is interested in learning about making mass it would be best to approach a mas camp in Sept. Oct. and simply ask if you could be included in the preparations. Even if they have contracted the work out to different people, ask if they could direct you to any of these manufactures. Of course you must have at least a good hand at using a glue gun and basic craft skills. The reason to go earlier rather than later, because there is less stress at that time, and more patience with new comers. At or closer to carnival all bets are off, you better be up to speed.
Could Band Leader address the fact that they seem to only cater to the smaller figured woman. The Trini woman's body comes in many sizes and it is hard for someone to fit a size 12 body into a size 0 costume. In addition when making bras for the fuller busted women why are the bras so flimsy. Do the designers take into consideration that the fuller busted woman (i.e. D+) would need some added support?
I agree. But each band leader should know his clients and be familiar with their issues. most people that play mas for instance in my band, are small to medium so (guilty as charged) I tend to concentrate on the majority . What I recommend for the person who may have issues with the fit off the bra, especially for the larger cup sizes, is go into the mas camp and ask to try on their bra samples. We carry them and I presume most bands do the same. It's hard to get the larger cups right over an Internet registration.
And why when they "make" a bra for the fuller busted woman we get half of the decorations on the bra? We paying the same money why would the bra look plain (for want of a better word)?
This happens sometimes because the makers try to use the same amount of material or beads per person. So it stands to reason that for a bigger bra there would be a lot more bra surface to cover than a smaller one. So it's not that they are cheating you by using less. It's just they need to use more for you, than maybe the average person, and so cost more.Don't know if this has been asked and or addressed already.Why is it that at times what is presented at a launch and pay down on, is NOT what the masquerader gets?
For the life of me I don't know why this is done. Sometimes it may be hard for what ever reason to acquire the components used on the prototype displayed. But if and when this happens and replacements have to be used, everyone who is registered must be notified and given a chance to either agree to the change, book in another section or given full refunds.
And any band that does less than that, is outright dishonest.
And any band that does less than that, is outright dishonest.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Carnival Band Launches Without Calypso Music
The following article appeared in yesterday's Trinidad Guardian; it does not show up online, hence the reason I had to scan it for your reading pleasure!
Click on photo
for large view
for large view
Monday, July 14, 2008
TRIBE Launch
Saturday 26th JULY
PIER 1 10pm - 4am
FREE DRINKS!!!! (rum, beer vodka)
Tickets on Sale from Mas Camp and Committee Members this Thursday (July 17th)
Camp hours: Mon - Fri 11am-6pm
Open Sat 19th 1pm - 4pm
Closed on Sundays
TLC holders & 2008 Masqueraders - Ladies $220, Males $240
Special Limited Advanced - $260
PIER 1 10pm - 4am
FREE DRINKS!!!! (rum, beer vodka)
Tickets on Sale from Mas Camp and Committee Members this Thursday (July 17th)
Camp hours: Mon - Fri 11am-6pm
Open Sat 19th 1pm - 4pm
Closed on Sundays
TLC holders & 2008 Masqueraders - Ladies $220, Males $240
Special Limited Advanced - $260
Kaotic Review and more pics!!!
Afro Chic has done her review and added more photos, especially of frontlines;check it out HERE
Two more sections:
Horizons
Horizons reminds me a lot of Rico Soldato of Poison, ok as an orange costume goes, not wowed.
Aqua Abyss
Ok, still not liking the appliqué on the belt and bra and the beads on the side even less!! This is just a notch above Romance which is my least favourite.I do like the color though!
Two more sections:
Horizons
Horizons reminds me a lot of Rico Soldato of Poison, ok as an orange costume goes, not wowed.
Aqua Abyss
Ok, still not liking the appliqué on the belt and bra and the beads on the side even less!! This is just a notch above Romance which is my least favourite.I do like the color though!
Monday Question Time!!
It's Monday and time for another round of questions for our Band Leader.
This one came via email ;
This one came via email ;
Sauce I may not be around on Monday so I wanted to get this one in.
Could Band Leader address the fact that they seem to only cater to the smaller figured woman. The Trini woman's body comes in many sizes and it is hard for someone to fit a size 12 body into a size 0 costume. In addition when making bras for the fuller busted women why are the bras so flimsy. Do the designers take into consideration that the fuller busted woman (i.e. D+) would need some added support?
Thanks Sauce and keep up the great work
DeReds
Kaotic first look...
Many thanks to Afro Chic who did a very good job last night; upon arrival at the Venue she sent a text saying "reporting for duty" then another one later that night saying the costumes were looking good. Now if anyone has doubts that Afro cannot handle a proper review of the launch have no fear. The reason why I asked her to fill in for me is because she does an excellent fete review for Carnival and she has an artistic eye, after all, she designs and decorates some pretty nice boots to match your costume.
And, we have pics! Click on each photo for large view.
Extreme Fury
Heavenly Passion
Beau Jolais
Hot Oil
Copia
Viva La Vida
Romance
Emerald Viper
Mystical Freedom
Deja Vu
Island People "Pride"
PHOTOS PROPERTY OF
http://www.afro-chic.com/
http://www.triniscene.com
p.s. I apologize for any grammatical errors, typing with the left hand!
And, we have pics! Click on each photo for large view.
Extreme Fury
Heavenly Passion
Beau Jolais
Hot Oil
Copia
Viva La Vida
Romance
Emerald Viper
Mystical Freedom
Deja Vu
From these photos I have to say the costumes look finished, good job, and I am really liking Heavenly Passion; I like that no appliqués were used on this one as it is all beads, though I have to say the frontline reminds me of Island People's "Pride" with that bustle which looks as if it needs a bit more embellishment/feathers and not too sure about those peacock feathers sticking out the top of the headpiece, too long perhaps?
Island People "Pride"
Beau Joulais I also like, although initially I was not feeling the fabric falling from the waist band, and still don't to be honest. However I like the top half of the costume with that bra as it is different to just draping some beads, the colours of burgundy and tan is an interesting combination for mas ,but to me gives a good contrast. Absolutely love the headpiece, most outstanding of the group.
Both purple costumes Viva La Vida and Deja Vu as well as Hot Oil make the grade as nicely decorated options, Viva La Vida is sexy,but not for all body types, Deja Vu LOVE the headpiece and frontline. I like the effect of the gold, that one will look awesome on the road with the bright yellow headpiece.
I do have one critique of Hot Oil as well as a few other costumes and that is the use of the decorated appliqués strategically placed on the belt and bra; to me this makes the costume look "old fashioned", something circa Poison 2004 as even the style of the appliqué has not changed in years!
And while it does not necessarily make a bad looking costume, compared to the competitors who have left appliqués in the dust the costume looks a bit dated, hence the reason I am partial to the costumes that try something different with the beading, stones, braid etc.
With that said I do not like the white costume, the huge appliqué used as the belt looks too stiff and the twirly silver decoration is too reminiscent of Silver Mist, which I am sure many of us would love to forget! Amended to add that I do like the frontline of Copia, massive backpack! Extreme Fury also falls victim to the curse of the appliqué, and while is is a very skimpy costume something about it is a tad bit off when all the pieces come together; not quite liking this one either.
Romance is my least favourite, the bra and belt festooned with that rosette looks a bit cosquel especially with those unnecessary feathered shoulder pads! The headpiece, while oddly interesting with the one sided detail, should have been a full headpiece with both sides mirroring each other. From the picture that cape looks way too long, twice the model's arm length! This costume reminds me of one from TRIBE 2004, albeit that was done better, with the cape and similar headpiece:
Both purple costumes Viva La Vida and Deja Vu as well as Hot Oil make the grade as nicely decorated options, Viva La Vida is sexy,but not for all body types, Deja Vu LOVE the headpiece and frontline. I like the effect of the gold, that one will look awesome on the road with the bright yellow headpiece.
I do have one critique of Hot Oil as well as a few other costumes and that is the use of the decorated appliqués strategically placed on the belt and bra; to me this makes the costume look "old fashioned", something circa Poison 2004 as even the style of the appliqué has not changed in years!
And while it does not necessarily make a bad looking costume, compared to the competitors who have left appliqués in the dust the costume looks a bit dated, hence the reason I am partial to the costumes that try something different with the beading, stones, braid etc.
With that said I do not like the white costume, the huge appliqué used as the belt looks too stiff and the twirly silver decoration is too reminiscent of Silver Mist, which I am sure many of us would love to forget! Amended to add that I do like the frontline of Copia, massive backpack! Extreme Fury also falls victim to the curse of the appliqué, and while is is a very skimpy costume something about it is a tad bit off when all the pieces come together; not quite liking this one either.
Romance is my least favourite, the bra and belt festooned with that rosette looks a bit cosquel especially with those unnecessary feathered shoulder pads! The headpiece, while oddly interesting with the one sided detail, should have been a full headpiece with both sides mirroring each other. From the picture that cape looks way too long, twice the model's arm length! This costume reminds me of one from TRIBE 2004, albeit that was done better, with the cape and similar headpiece:
TRIBE 2004
As for the green and the black/silver costume, I am neutral on those. Not my first choices if I were playing with this band at all, the green has to be the right shade and I honestly do not like the backpack on the black, it is too much done wrong (looks like a backpack AND bustle). But not a bad option for those partial to those colours. Glad to see males made a showing, haven't seen enough to have an opinion, will reserve comment until I see the rest of the photos.
PHOTOS PROPERTY OF
http://www.afro-chic.com/
http://www.triniscene.com
p.s. I apologize for any grammatical errors, typing with the left hand!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Afro Chic reporting for duty!
Tonight is Kaotic's band launch and as much as I would love to attend, as I was invited, I have to sit this one out. I have been home sick since Thursday and though improving, still not well enough to go to the launch tonight. However, Afro Chic will be doing the honors and we all can look forward to her photos and review tomorrow.
I should be back in business for Spice launch on Saturday July 19th and TRIBE on July 26th!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Men and Mas....
Does it not seem like the focus of all these band launches and costume previews is showcasing the female costume? There is usually so much hype over the beads and sequins of the hot female sections, yet very little chatter over the male costumes. It has gotten to the point where many bands only showed female costumes at the launch last year, not to mention that male costumes never even made it unto some websites!
Last year several of the readers of this blog were upset that the male costumes of popular bands seemed to be an afterthought, paling in comparison to the females. They went so far as to start a petition for one band to change their male costumes:
So, I would like to get some feedback to find out if men really care about getting a fabulous costume and do women like to see men in sexy costumes? Submit your vote below and feel free to leave a comment:Last year several of the readers of this blog were upset that the male costumes of popular bands seemed to be an afterthought, paling in comparison to the females. They went so far as to start a petition for one band to change their male costumes:
Many men (including significant others to some females) are displeased with the costumes and either don't want to play with Tribe or worse, at all.
Douglas John Addresses the rumours...
On Wednesday I had the opportunity to chat with band leader of Elements Douglas John, by request, as Douglas wanted to “clear the air” on information that has been circulating where Elements is concerned. My first question to Douglas was why did he feel it necessary to address the rumours at this time? Douglas intimated that he has been following the blog, just to know what is out there as well as he appreciates my style and frankness, however he was curious to know where I was getting my sources as some of the facts that were written about were changed. So, let’s get to the real story behind the “ole talk”:
On leaving TRIBE…
Douglas left TRIBE voluntarily, not involuntarily or with any friction as was stated in the Scorch magazine article. Reason being that it was a personal decision, wanting to pursue something that he thinks is better for him and needing to step up and show people what he can do as a person, not as a band. Douglas saw the chance for development as a designer and more freedom to express himself. For three years Douglas worked behind the scenes with TRIBE, he worked on Jab Molassie, Dragon and Jab Jab Frontlines, as well as Jamette, Dragon, Midnight Robber and Pierrot Grenade individual costumes. In 2008 Monique and Dean felt it was time to bring him into the spotlight and he was featured as being part of the TRIBE team, in spite of leaving he wants everyone to know that he is still friends with TRIBE.
On Elements being a breakaway from TRIBE….
Elements is just another fun band, as a designer Douglas takes costumes seriously however their vision is different from TRIBE’s and he would like to state emphatically that Elements is NOT a breakaway from TRIBE, though he wishes them the best.
On Elements head hunting from TRIBE’s committee….
When Elements came together as a group of friends they had their own concept on how they should market the band and how to get people aware of Elements, it just so happened that a lot of them were already part of TRIBE. A lot of key people have been involved in TRIBE in one way or another. Having discussions with them Elements presented their concept and asked if they would support them and they said yes they would, severing ties with any other committee to come to a new band. The competition also did the same thing, coming after the same people that Element came after.
On who is Element’s competition……….
Elements is competing against all bands, since they are the only band that offers so many options of all inclusive and non all inclusive.
On Elements having no costumes……
The costumes are being made here with supplies from New York and China like the appliqués that Douglas designed; all 12 sections are complete. The idea of showing costumes before the media launch is a new thing, nothing is wrong with this, however Elements chose to wait until the media launch to show their costumes.
On planning to launch the same date as TRIBE…..
In conceptualizing the launch Elements was looking at venues and available dates, with no knowledge of what TRIBE was doing and the launch was tentatively planned for the end of July. However competing with TRIBE on the same day in same area is madness!Since Elements cannot launch before TRIBE they have decided to launch after. The launch is going to be a bit more upscale with the venue transformed, and due to the size of the area limited tickets will be available.
On the blacklist……..
The introduction party was a private affair for the main core people of Elements and their close supporters, no bands were invited as if it were another band having a private party they would not expect to be invited either. Dane Lewis from Island People was there because he is involved with 51 Degrees, people got the wrong impression. TRIBE did put up their billboard opposite 51 Degrees at 3 am the morning of the introduction party yet rumours are only spreading about what Elements is doing.
On the paleness of the committee………
At the introduction party the key people were presented, those being Charlene, Douglas and Colin and in retrospect the committee did appear to be “pale” even though it was not true. At that time everyone was not signed on as yet so the entire committee was not presented, however steps have been taken to rectify this and show the diversity of Element’s committee.
And there you have it, straight from the horse's mouth!!
Douglas left TRIBE voluntarily, not involuntarily or with any friction as was stated in the Scorch magazine article. Reason being that it was a personal decision, wanting to pursue something that he thinks is better for him and needing to step up and show people what he can do as a person, not as a band. Douglas saw the chance for development as a designer and more freedom to express himself. For three years Douglas worked behind the scenes with TRIBE, he worked on Jab Molassie, Dragon and Jab Jab Frontlines, as well as Jamette, Dragon, Midnight Robber and Pierrot Grenade individual costumes. In 2008 Monique and Dean felt it was time to bring him into the spotlight and he was featured as being part of the TRIBE team, in spite of leaving he wants everyone to know that he is still friends with TRIBE.
On Elements being a breakaway from TRIBE….
Elements is just another fun band, as a designer Douglas takes costumes seriously however their vision is different from TRIBE’s and he would like to state emphatically that Elements is NOT a breakaway from TRIBE, though he wishes them the best.
On Elements head hunting from TRIBE’s committee….
When Elements came together as a group of friends they had their own concept on how they should market the band and how to get people aware of Elements, it just so happened that a lot of them were already part of TRIBE. A lot of key people have been involved in TRIBE in one way or another. Having discussions with them Elements presented their concept and asked if they would support them and they said yes they would, severing ties with any other committee to come to a new band. The competition also did the same thing, coming after the same people that Element came after.
On who is Element’s competition……….
Elements is competing against all bands, since they are the only band that offers so many options of all inclusive and non all inclusive.
On Elements having no costumes……
The costumes are being made here with supplies from New York and China like the appliqués that Douglas designed; all 12 sections are complete. The idea of showing costumes before the media launch is a new thing, nothing is wrong with this, however Elements chose to wait until the media launch to show their costumes.
On planning to launch the same date as TRIBE…..
In conceptualizing the launch Elements was looking at venues and available dates, with no knowledge of what TRIBE was doing and the launch was tentatively planned for the end of July. However competing with TRIBE on the same day in same area is madness!Since Elements cannot launch before TRIBE they have decided to launch after. The launch is going to be a bit more upscale with the venue transformed, and due to the size of the area limited tickets will be available.
On the blacklist……..
The introduction party was a private affair for the main core people of Elements and their close supporters, no bands were invited as if it were another band having a private party they would not expect to be invited either. Dane Lewis from Island People was there because he is involved with 51 Degrees, people got the wrong impression. TRIBE did put up their billboard opposite 51 Degrees at 3 am the morning of the introduction party yet rumours are only spreading about what Elements is doing.
On the paleness of the committee………
At the introduction party the key people were presented, those being Charlene, Douglas and Colin and in retrospect the committee did appear to be “pale” even though it was not true. At that time everyone was not signed on as yet so the entire committee was not presented, however steps have been taken to rectify this and show the diversity of Element’s committee.
And there you have it, straight from the horse's mouth!!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Soooooooooooo
Rumor has it that Island People's launch date is August 10th....hmmm. If this is true both Elements and Island People will be launching the same weekend, and I am thinking TRIBE will start registration on Saturday the 9th since when I inquired bout when registration will begin for TRIBE, I was told two weeks after the launch.
TRIBE is also continuing their photo shoot ,which started yesterday, today so they are definitely getting ready for the launch.Some section names for TRIBE are African Love Bird (Peter Elias), Pheasant (Gail Cabral), Bird of Paradise (Monique Nobrega), Golden Dove (Melissa James) and Scarlet Ibis (Lana Nobrega), those are just a few of the 16 sections. And the male face of TRIBE is Jeffery Charles, a former contestant on Synergy's Supermodel contest.
TRIBE is also continuing their photo shoot ,which started yesterday, today so they are definitely getting ready for the launch.Some section names for TRIBE are African Love Bird (Peter Elias), Pheasant (Gail Cabral), Bird of Paradise (Monique Nobrega), Golden Dove (Melissa James) and Scarlet Ibis (Lana Nobrega), those are just a few of the 16 sections. And the male face of TRIBE is Jeffery Charles, a former contestant on Synergy's Supermodel contest.
Jeffery Charles
In other band news, Spice also did their photo shoot last Sunday; I keep hearing that the costumes are fabulous, cannot wait until next week!
PHOTO SOURCE: www.synergytv.net
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Evolution's Website is up...
Check out the section names with professional pics:
click on pic below to be taken to website
Elements Media Launch
New band Elements held a media launch at the Royal Princess Casino, Fiesta Plaza Movietowne yesterday evening. What made this different from their introduction party held in May you ask? Well, this Media Launch was essentially presenting the concept of the theme “Casino Royale“ to selected invited media persons and sponsors; in addition we were again introduced to an ever expanding Elements Team and best of all were given a preview of two sections from the band.
On paper the who’s who of Elements presents persons with a mix of impressive resumes experienced in costume design, marketing, events management and promotion. The team comprises of Amanda Jardine Public Relations & Operations Manager, Karl Mootoo Marketing Manager, Derek Douragh Logistics Manager Gisel Laughlin Administrative Manager, Arief Rafeeq IT Manager &Marketing Assistant, Brendon Clement , Charlene Lumwai Production Manager, Douglas John Band Leader & Production Manager and Colin Mitchell Managing Director who were all introduced to the media highlighting their experience in the aforementioned areas. Surely Elements has put together a Team poised to execute their debut unto the Carnival scene with efficiency and organization however it remains to be seen how well everyone works together in running a Carnival band which brings with it a whole set of diverse issues!
On paper the who’s who of Elements presents persons with a mix of impressive resumes experienced in costume design, marketing, events management and promotion. The team comprises of Amanda Jardine Public Relations & Operations Manager, Karl Mootoo Marketing Manager, Derek Douragh Logistics Manager Gisel Laughlin Administrative Manager, Arief Rafeeq IT Manager &Marketing Assistant, Brendon Clement , Charlene Lumwai Production Manager, Douglas John Band Leader & Production Manager and Colin Mitchell Managing Director who were all introduced to the media highlighting their experience in the aforementioned areas. Surely Elements has put together a Team poised to execute their debut unto the Carnival scene with efficiency and organization however it remains to be seen how well everyone works together in running a Carnival band which brings with it a whole set of diverse issues!
From what I have seen so far Elements has stepped up their game, for instance the venue chosen was appropriate for the launch, the team members readily interacted with the media providing information an of course we were able to see costumes, finally! The two sections from the Las Vegas inspired presentation were Jubilee designed by Douglas John and Cabaret designed by Charlene Lum Wai.
Jubilee will be an all female section representing Vegas show girls, and of the two this one I like more. First off the portrayal lends itself to flashy bikini and beads type costumes, it is after all showgirls, so no issue on whether it fits the theme. I love the colours used of fuchsia and orange, and the beaded top that falls over the bra is a novel detail that I absolutely adore. The mini waist pack is standard for all backline costumes and while Afro Chic did not like it and I am neither here or there where it is concerned it does however represent what a show girl will wear. The headpiece frames the face quite nicely and I will forgive the boas, as I am not a fan of boas on headpieces, which in this instance works.
*click on all photos for large view
Carbaret is nice but did not wow me; simply because I have seen the bustier done before. I like that the bustier is offered as a welcomed change to just a bra, and there will be an option of a cropped version of the bustier for those wanting less coverage. The back of the waist band is fabric and on the model looks cute, not too sure how it will look on ladies with “more junk in the trunk”! Even though the back of the belt is san beads, it does not look cheap like other versions of this costume I have seen before as the front of the belt is well embellished, I do like the choice of beads used.
Designer Douglas John promised that the frontlines are going to be spectacular, cannot wait to see it as he has done an excellent job in the past. Overall I liked the costumes, even though each of the new bands (Spice, Kaotic and Elements) have shown costumes that a novice will say all look alike,but I think each one thus far have subtle differences in designs which makes for interesting costume choices.
I just wanted to add that when it comes to new bands my decision on whether or not I would choose to play with them takes many things into account; personally I would prefer to give them a year to see how well they survive their debut. With TRIBE my choice to play with them as a new band their debut year was because at the time they were the only ones offering something different to the existing bands from which I had to choose, those being Poison and Harts. I did not want to go back to Harts as I loved the all inclusive experience and I was not impressed by Poison’s enormous size and lack of amenities I had grown accustom to with Harts, such as the lunch stop. TRIBE then had a very successful run as a private section in Poison and the promise of the fully inclusive, ultimate experience is what lured me. Now, every new band is offering the same promise, some providing a better experience than others; I am yet to be tempted to switch for the same experience with an unknown band. I pay my money willingly, but I do appreciate knowing what I am paying for and getting my money’s worth and to me I am happy where I am for now. That is not to say that new masqueraders are not spoiled for choices and I am sure many people are open to supporting a new band.
Elements is now attempting to change the game with their idea of combining the options of fully all inclusive, non all inclusive and a drinks only option all in one band. This might appeal to many masqueraders as with the options comes the choice of pricing to suit your pocket. Fully inclusive costumes will range from 2800.00TT to $3000.00TT, less options means a lesser price! And catering to between 2500 – 3000 masqueraders Elements is hoping to make the on road experience manageable.
The band will comprise of 12 sections which have already been completed and screened last week at the bandroom on the corner of Luis Street and Ariapita Avenue. Elements launches on Friday August 8th at Pier 1 which will be transformed into a casino, limited tickets go on sale on July 18th from committee members, section leaders and calling 222- BAND.
More Elements photos HERE.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Question and Answer With Band Leader
First off most band leaders are to DAMN egotistical to even get along with each other, much less unite for a common goal. And even if they did, it has always been my experience that the government gets, what the government wants, and very rarely has it anything to do with the will of the people. (that's any government not choosing party sides) As far as having our own stage this would never happen, because the NCC owns all the rights to carnival, we can not go against them, we need their permission to have a venue.
It would be liking asking T&TEC for our own power station.The NCBA is corrupt and a waste of time, they represent maybe one big band and very little else, The NCDF represents mostly all the bands but still the government will not deal with them as the main band leaders association. I don't know what use they would be anyway because they turned out to be a toothless tiger. The few task they have been given to do, they seem either incapable or unwilling to make waves to accomplish them. All this is sad but true.
It would be liking asking T&TEC for our own power station.The NCBA is corrupt and a waste of time, they represent maybe one big band and very little else, The NCDF represents mostly all the bands but still the government will not deal with them as the main band leaders association. I don't know what use they would be anyway because they turned out to be a toothless tiger. The few task they have been given to do, they seem either incapable or unwilling to make waves to accomplish them. All this is sad but true.
1.How important is it to win the title of band of year?
It varies, but most band leaders would like to win, but the question is at what cost. I personally am not going to allow my masqueraders to suffer an agonizing wait so that I can have a tribute to my ego. In fact the only reason I cross venues is because my masqueraders love the stage. Now that's all but gone. Here is a note to the NCC.. If masqueraders have no idea where the stage starts and ends then you don't have a viable venue.This whole around the Savannah jokey venue, is so ridiculous, and it's so annoying the way they treat us. They think they can fool us with their lies about how everyone loves it the way it is now. NCC you are fooling no one
2.Do you think that bands who win titles use that to their advantage to get costume manufacturing jobs outside of Trinidad?
Yes It can be an advantage.
3.With the system of judging where bands have to go to more than one venue to qualify for band of the year do you think this is unfair since bands with "inferior" costumes that go to all the judging points win over bands with much better costumes that do not go to all the judging points for whatever reason (congestion, time issues etc).Yes ,I think each venue should stand on it's own. That way no band is given Band of the Year when if it is not deserving. The NCC uses the compulsory venue to force bands to go to inconvenient venues for the amusement of the public. When it should be the other way around, that the venues should be located where it is more convenient for bands to pass. In my opinion with Masqueraders trump spectators every time.
4.My question is, why must overseas masqueraders pay in full? I personally do not think that this is fair. If your going to ask for a deposit from locals, why can't everyone pay a deposit.
I agree, I know some bands practice this,I can only assume that this is for no other reason than to make their life easier. But there is no legitimate reason for not charging a deposit like you would a local player. I certainly don't do this. COMPLAIN about it.
- 5.Blogger ELSA said...
I have a question, I am bringing my own section in a major band in Toronto Caribana next year please God. I there a factory that makes bathing suits in Trinidad or overseas, and a website where I can order beads, braids or pheasant feathers. I there a designing company or a particular person that designs costumes for overseas customers wanting to purchase these designs for a cost. Elsa please leave you email address with Saucy and I'll answer you via email
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
SPICE MODEL SCREENING.
HEY ALL YOU HOT GIRLS AND GUYS...........SPICE IS HOSTING OUR FIRST EVER MODEL SCREENING THIS THURSDAY ......10TH OF JULY AT ZEN !!!!!
LOOKING FOR ... FRESH NEW FACES......GIRLS AND GUYS.....SO IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE THE LOOK JOIN US AT ZEN BETWEEN 4PM AND 7 PM ...................GIRLS WALK WITH SWIMWEAR AND HEELS ATLEAST 5 INCHES HIGH.......
SEE YOU THERE!!!!!
IF YOU GUYS NEED ANY SPECIFICS CALL 725-8688 0R 747-6548 .....
Undiluted Sauce!!
Each year we masqueraders are bombarded with mas bands and their committee members flaunting assurances of the hottest most gorgeous costumes, an ultimately fantastic on the road experience and a host of other extras such as delicious meals and snacks, a well stocked bar and a goody bag filled with Carnival essentials that will wow us. For all this we, the masqueraders, are to gladly hand over our hard earned cash because we are paying for “more than a costume”, we are paying “for the experience”. At the end of Carnival Tuesday day while some of us are satisfied that we may have gotten our money’s worth, others are left feeling short changed, wondering why all those promises were never fulfilled.
Now, I don’t know about any of you but I take my mas seriously, and I do not mind paying for a quality product and a quality experience when what is promised is what is delivered. I expect efficient service from band launch to costume pick up, an on road experience with minimal hiccups and everything that is promised on those flashy websites; this is after all what I am paying top dollar for. When there are problems I expect that they will be dealt with in a manner that is fair to the masquerader with service going the extra mile to ensure that the issue is rectified. And though my costume may be advertised as being “complimentary” that does not mean that I should accept two string of beads and three plumes that some color blind designer throws together because I want to show them my support of their “effort”; I am paying (through the nose) for a costume, it is not given to me free!
I am not going to accept mediocrity when the price of costumes keep going up year after year, when time and time again masqueraders pay willingly (sometimes FULL payment in advance) only to be given a sub par experience coupled with insulting, degrading service, the mas band going back on all those pretty promises used to lure us to sign up with them. Each and every band is in this to make money, regardless of what the say; no band leader is in mas to come out at a minus on Ash Wednesday. Sometimes it feel as if they take us masqueraders for granted with the bottom line being making a profit while we get bottom of the barrel treatment.
We masqueraders should be valued for the power we wield, we are the ones that support a band, we pay the inflated prices, we are willing to give them a second and third chance and what do we get for it? For too long SOME band leaders have been trying to get away with just toeing the line, just coming out on average while they raid our pockets time and time again, and what recourse do we have??? It is an insult to expect anyone to not only wear a cheaply made, inexcusably poorly designed costume but to ask them to pay a month’s salary for it to boot!
Well, for Carnival 2009 “the sauce” is here to tell it like it is, undiluted; I am putting my MOUTH where my money is and no band will be spared! After the Silver Mist fiasco where Carnival Jumbie was vilified for speaking her true feelings about her costume upon collection, I realized that “they” expect us to shut up and accept crap just because “their” egos cannot take the truth. My job is not to play nice with everyone so that I can invited to all the events and only write glowing tributes like the usual crop of media personalities. I apologize in advance to all those whose feelings will be hurt because they are too narrow minded to look past the review and actually use the criticism to offer masqueraders a better product and a better experience. Masqueraders are not obligated to give anyone an easy time because they are new, when it is our money jumping up in band leaders pockets we really should be demanding the best from each and every one of them who think that they can just get together overnight and bring out a band, serve us drivel on a platter and expect us to eat it up with a spoon and say thanks!
The personal attacks will come, my loyalties will come into question and my credibility will be attacked and undermined but at the end of the day I shall be happy knowing that I have spoken my mind and said my piece because in this business of mas there are many looking to line their pockets without a care to the masquerader; how else can anyone explain why each and every band leader is not presenting anything but their BEST effort to the public? And while I am sure to be called every name in the book for saying what I REALLY think of their costumes, at the end of the day the costumes will still be ugly and no one will be rushing to sign up! Seriously, the criticism can only benefit THEM not me.
After all when a band uses superlatives such as hott costumes (extra T for emphasis), boasts that they are the missing ingredient to spice up Carnival, that they are full of passion and adrenaline, a renaissance of movement and sensation, that the fun has just begun are we not to expect nothing short of spectacular?
And while I do not anticipate that each costume will be drop dead gorgeous or that every band launch will be a hassle free event and that unexpected issues will not arise I am hoping that band leaders give us masqueraders the respect that we deserve and not try to baffle us with bull shit! The competition for our money is fierce, and to the bands that cannot stand the heat, get out of the kitchen, the sauce is coming to you with extra pepper!
Monday, July 07, 2008
Legacy band launch
Large band Legacy-big Mike & Friends has announced its launch date for Carnival 2009.
As is customary, Legacy has stuck with the traditional launch season and will be launching their portrayal for Trinidad & Tobago Carnival 2009 on ..
Saturday 18th October, 2008
Band Portrayal: KINGDOM OF THE DRAGON
Details of the venue, time and place will be released shortly.
I think by the time Legacy launches in OCTOBER many bands will be sold out or on their way to being sold out. Now I can understand them wanting to stick with tradition and launch in October, but does that make sense when other bands are launching a full 4 months in advance?I guess they know their masqueraders will wait!
Monday Question Time
It's Monday, so you know what that means; the floor is open to all your questions for our Band Leader. With band launching season officially started in Trinidad and Tobago I know that many of you will have questions pertaining to launch and registration procedures so ask away!
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Life Unleashed next Sunday
With Evolution's launch out of the way the next band launching on the calender is Kaotic's "Life Unleashed" which takes place on Sunday July 13th (same night as the Miss Universe Show which takes place from 9 - 11PM!).
click for large view
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Evolution Launch, the review....
I really wish that band leaders would rethink Club Zen as a location for a band launch as it has to be the worst place ever to showcase costumes to the public! As I predicted, getting into Zen last night, for those not on a V.I.P. list, meant hours of standing outside patiently waiting to be let into the club. And while this might be the norm for the regular Glam Friday patrons, many people showed up last night for the sole purpose of Evolution’s band launch and they too had to stand outside and wait for hours like everyone else!
One would think that the obvious solution to the problem of having regular club patron and Evolution supporters, masqueraders, potential masqueraders, media and those interested in seeing costumes jostling for space and entry to the same location at the same time would be to rent out the club on a specific date for the sole purpose of the band launch. Luckily my wait was not a protracted one, even though there was a line to gain entry to V.I.P. Nevertheless it was a wait that was unnecessary in my opinion as I really did not care to party at Zen, my business was to see and photograph costumes.
We eventually get inside after having our names checked off on a list, at this time it was about 11:30PM, the launch was advertised to start “promptly at 11:00PM”; yeah right! At 11:45 the show began, a bare breasted body painted model enters a plexi-glass box on the stage and fog filled the entire area, it was then I knew we were in for some trouble! Another reason that Zen is so impractical for a launch is that the use of special effects like fog in an enclosed club means that it lingers in the air clouding the costumes in a hazy glow when photographed.
Not to mention the “runway” that the models have to walk on is too short and circles a bar; now the problem of not being able to get good shots of the costumes could be alleviated somewhat if the models STOPPED and POSED for the photographers. But no, they all marched down the runway with solemn, glum, unsmiling faces without one ever stopping and posing so that a photographer could get a great shot. I mean I would be mad if I were forced to wear some of those costumes too, but you are being paid to do a job so in future, would someone instruct the models to smile and act as if they are enjoying themselves and most importantly do not forget to POSE.
With the models racing on and off the stage the whole presentation came to an end in just about half an hour at 12:15! After all the sections were shown, the models came back for a second round, this time showcasing the male costumes. To be honest they look just as much as an afterthought as having them come out in a second showing while all the females were shown FIRST! Really, why bother to show the male costumes at all??? Maybe the idea of having the males in all white or whatever colour is a better one than having them in those hideous costumes, but wait they match the females!!!
As for the costumes, let me preface what I am going to say by letting you all know that for Carnival 2009 with all the new bands coming out and all the promises by band leaders of HOT costumes I am pulling NO punches on my costume reviews; you will be getting it straight, direct and undiluted! My first thought on seeing Evolution costumes… they were UGLY! The first section I thought was a teaser of better to come but it turns out to be the best of the lot. I don’t know what type of screening they had before showing these costumes to the public but anyone who said “ooh that is gorgeous” was LYING! Next time any of you bands want an honest and direct answer to “what do you think of this costume?” call me, I will let you know how it REALLY looks from a masquerader’s point of view and save you the embarrassment of presenting such UGLY costumes to the public. I know you designers probably slaved over the designs, but from what I have seen maybe costume design is not your calling!
And since no one saw the importance of giving out booklets I have no names to assign to the sections, but what does it matter anyway? None of the costumes look as if they fit any theme! So, unto the costumes by colours and order of appearance as pictured here:
Section # 1 Emerald Green – I am guessing the bigger headpiece is frontline, looked nice on initial presentation. Not much bead work or decoration on the bra but nice.
Section #2 blue and silver – For some reason this reminds me of Tales of Benguela (TRIBE circa 2006) I do not like the headpiece and as with many of the costumes this one looks unfinished.
Section #3 – Blue, black and silver – I like this one; like the working on the sides of the belt, I think it is an interesting detail. I also like the headpiece, not too sure I like the use of the black feathers on the back pack for the frontline however.
Section # 4 – Blue and Gold – Despise the headpiece and the few string of beads draped on the butt. Also not feeling the leg and arm pieces, another costume that is lacking something to make it look finished.
Section #5- Pink and Silver – A feathered mess! The feathers sprouting from bra and belt, in person looks worse than the pictures. It actually looks like a feathered butterfly on the crotch!
Section #6 – Turquoise and nude – I want to like this one, really I do especially since it is supposed to represent something from the Garden of Eden (I think) and maybe I like the fringe and hot shorts but I am just not seeing this working in real life. On the models, yes, on the road, NO. Ugh to the jeweled leg warmer foot pieces!
Section #7 – Copper, Gold, Nude formerly known as Lion Tamers – Well, I liked this one when it was Lion Tamers but it does nothing for me a second time around; been there, done that! The belt is cut too high and too wide.
Section # 8 – Fuchia and Green – These colours give me a headache! For the frontline I do like the bra and belt; the bra is a wired/caged bra if the detail is not pronounced in my photographs. The headpiece I do not like at all and the backpack needs more feathers, it looks a bit scrawny to me! The backline is ok, the bra is very well decorated, but why does it seem like several sections have the SAME sprouting headpiece in different colours?
Section #9 – Orange and Yellow- The only thing I like about this is the larger headpiece. The decoration on the bra is hideous, and the eight strands of ROUND beads (when last have you seen that used on a costume!) look too much like one of Evolution’s designs last year.
Section #10 – White and Diamante – What is up with the mini back pack for frontlines? It makes no sense having that bogus kiddie back pack parading around as a frontline, it needs more feathers!! They really skimped on the beads for the belt; it looks no longer than three inches not to mention the BACK of the belt has FEATHERS in lieu of beads. I wonder whose brilliant idea that was seeing as the feathers kick out making it look like a duck’s tail.
Section #11- Pink and Purple – Yawn, boring.
Section #12 – Black and Pink – For a minute there I thought I was looking at a Saloon girl from one of those old time Westerns! Horrible colour combination; it looks tacky and trashy; and what is up with the frilly butt on the backline costume, is Evolution trying to cut costs by using as little beads as possible?
Section #13 – Yellow and Orange (AGAIN) – Lets focus on the belt shall we, it is essentially three rows of beads/chain and TINSEL!!! This has got to be the most unattractive costume I have seen in a long time.
Section #14 – Red and Green – I did not get a good shot of this one from the front; however it is not that bad.. from the front. From the back the entire butt is outside, no beads, just a jeweled belt. Another frontline with another cheap looking backpack! Not to mention I despise the headpiece!
Section #15 – Red and Silver – I am not liking this headpiece at all, really did someone actually o.k. this design? The rest of the costume is some beads draped on a belt and bra with some appliqués; the end.
Section #16 – Pink and Green – This is the April Fool’s joke of the lot. I am thinking they borrowed a costume from one of those small island Carnivals and tossed it in just to see if we would notice; this is an atrocious mess! I don’t even think the colours in the headpiece matches the colours of the actual costume. And THAT is where all the beads went! A full skirt of beads finally, too bad the costume is so awful.
Something went horribly wrong in the selection of colours used with some colour combinations showing up more than once.It is as if the inspiration of vibrant and interesting choices of 2008 such as tangerine and blue, lime green, teal and purple went out the door.. or maybe the designers of those costumes went out the door as well! In addition the materials used look cheap and they were used very sparingly. Sorry to say when looking at these costumes I am also inclined to side with Soy Forde on her issue of the commercialization of Carnival; you can do bikini mas but do it well nah man! Take a look at Island People, TRIBE, Harts and even what we have seen so far from Kaotic and Spice; Island People try to think "out the box", TRIBE stepped up their costume designs and details, Harts has set a standard of costume quality, Kaotic is looking good and Spice has blown people away with only two costumes!
I am really hoping that when Evolution's website launches we would see some new and improved costumes .. please!
Here are some male costumes for your viewing pleasure:
One would think that the obvious solution to the problem of having regular club patron and Evolution supporters, masqueraders, potential masqueraders, media and those interested in seeing costumes jostling for space and entry to the same location at the same time would be to rent out the club on a specific date for the sole purpose of the band launch. Luckily my wait was not a protracted one, even though there was a line to gain entry to V.I.P. Nevertheless it was a wait that was unnecessary in my opinion as I really did not care to party at Zen, my business was to see and photograph costumes.
We eventually get inside after having our names checked off on a list, at this time it was about 11:30PM, the launch was advertised to start “promptly at 11:00PM”; yeah right! At 11:45 the show began, a bare breasted body painted model enters a plexi-glass box on the stage and fog filled the entire area, it was then I knew we were in for some trouble! Another reason that Zen is so impractical for a launch is that the use of special effects like fog in an enclosed club means that it lingers in the air clouding the costumes in a hazy glow when photographed.
Not to mention the “runway” that the models have to walk on is too short and circles a bar; now the problem of not being able to get good shots of the costumes could be alleviated somewhat if the models STOPPED and POSED for the photographers. But no, they all marched down the runway with solemn, glum, unsmiling faces without one ever stopping and posing so that a photographer could get a great shot. I mean I would be mad if I were forced to wear some of those costumes too, but you are being paid to do a job so in future, would someone instruct the models to smile and act as if they are enjoying themselves and most importantly do not forget to POSE.
With the models racing on and off the stage the whole presentation came to an end in just about half an hour at 12:15! After all the sections were shown, the models came back for a second round, this time showcasing the male costumes. To be honest they look just as much as an afterthought as having them come out in a second showing while all the females were shown FIRST! Really, why bother to show the male costumes at all??? Maybe the idea of having the males in all white or whatever colour is a better one than having them in those hideous costumes, but wait they match the females!!!
As for the costumes, let me preface what I am going to say by letting you all know that for Carnival 2009 with all the new bands coming out and all the promises by band leaders of HOT costumes I am pulling NO punches on my costume reviews; you will be getting it straight, direct and undiluted! My first thought on seeing Evolution costumes… they were UGLY! The first section I thought was a teaser of better to come but it turns out to be the best of the lot. I don’t know what type of screening they had before showing these costumes to the public but anyone who said “ooh that is gorgeous” was LYING! Next time any of you bands want an honest and direct answer to “what do you think of this costume?” call me, I will let you know how it REALLY looks from a masquerader’s point of view and save you the embarrassment of presenting such UGLY costumes to the public. I know you designers probably slaved over the designs, but from what I have seen maybe costume design is not your calling!
And since no one saw the importance of giving out booklets I have no names to assign to the sections, but what does it matter anyway? None of the costumes look as if they fit any theme! So, unto the costumes by colours and order of appearance as pictured here:
Section # 1 Emerald Green – I am guessing the bigger headpiece is frontline, looked nice on initial presentation. Not much bead work or decoration on the bra but nice.
Section #2 blue and silver – For some reason this reminds me of Tales of Benguela (TRIBE circa 2006) I do not like the headpiece and as with many of the costumes this one looks unfinished.
Section #3 – Blue, black and silver – I like this one; like the working on the sides of the belt, I think it is an interesting detail. I also like the headpiece, not too sure I like the use of the black feathers on the back pack for the frontline however.
Section # 4 – Blue and Gold – Despise the headpiece and the few string of beads draped on the butt. Also not feeling the leg and arm pieces, another costume that is lacking something to make it look finished.
Section #5- Pink and Silver – A feathered mess! The feathers sprouting from bra and belt, in person looks worse than the pictures. It actually looks like a feathered butterfly on the crotch!
Section #6 – Turquoise and nude – I want to like this one, really I do especially since it is supposed to represent something from the Garden of Eden (I think) and maybe I like the fringe and hot shorts but I am just not seeing this working in real life. On the models, yes, on the road, NO. Ugh to the jeweled leg warmer foot pieces!
Section #7 – Copper, Gold, Nude formerly known as Lion Tamers – Well, I liked this one when it was Lion Tamers but it does nothing for me a second time around; been there, done that! The belt is cut too high and too wide.
Section # 8 – Fuchia and Green – These colours give me a headache! For the frontline I do like the bra and belt; the bra is a wired/caged bra if the detail is not pronounced in my photographs. The headpiece I do not like at all and the backpack needs more feathers, it looks a bit scrawny to me! The backline is ok, the bra is very well decorated, but why does it seem like several sections have the SAME sprouting headpiece in different colours?
Section #9 – Orange and Yellow- The only thing I like about this is the larger headpiece. The decoration on the bra is hideous, and the eight strands of ROUND beads (when last have you seen that used on a costume!) look too much like one of Evolution’s designs last year.
Section #10 – White and Diamante – What is up with the mini back pack for frontlines? It makes no sense having that bogus kiddie back pack parading around as a frontline, it needs more feathers!! They really skimped on the beads for the belt; it looks no longer than three inches not to mention the BACK of the belt has FEATHERS in lieu of beads. I wonder whose brilliant idea that was seeing as the feathers kick out making it look like a duck’s tail.
Section #11- Pink and Purple – Yawn, boring.
Section #12 – Black and Pink – For a minute there I thought I was looking at a Saloon girl from one of those old time Westerns! Horrible colour combination; it looks tacky and trashy; and what is up with the frilly butt on the backline costume, is Evolution trying to cut costs by using as little beads as possible?
Section #13 – Yellow and Orange (AGAIN) – Lets focus on the belt shall we, it is essentially three rows of beads/chain and TINSEL!!! This has got to be the most unattractive costume I have seen in a long time.
Section #14 – Red and Green – I did not get a good shot of this one from the front; however it is not that bad.. from the front. From the back the entire butt is outside, no beads, just a jeweled belt. Another frontline with another cheap looking backpack! Not to mention I despise the headpiece!
Section #15 – Red and Silver – I am not liking this headpiece at all, really did someone actually o.k. this design? The rest of the costume is some beads draped on a belt and bra with some appliqués; the end.
Section #16 – Pink and Green – This is the April Fool’s joke of the lot. I am thinking they borrowed a costume from one of those small island Carnivals and tossed it in just to see if we would notice; this is an atrocious mess! I don’t even think the colours in the headpiece matches the colours of the actual costume. And THAT is where all the beads went! A full skirt of beads finally, too bad the costume is so awful.
Something went horribly wrong in the selection of colours used with some colour combinations showing up more than once.It is as if the inspiration of vibrant and interesting choices of 2008 such as tangerine and blue, lime green, teal and purple went out the door.. or maybe the designers of those costumes went out the door as well! In addition the materials used look cheap and they were used very sparingly. Sorry to say when looking at these costumes I am also inclined to side with Soy Forde on her issue of the commercialization of Carnival; you can do bikini mas but do it well nah man! Take a look at Island People, TRIBE, Harts and even what we have seen so far from Kaotic and Spice; Island People try to think "out the box", TRIBE stepped up their costume designs and details, Harts has set a standard of costume quality, Kaotic is looking good and Spice has blown people away with only two costumes!
I am really hoping that when Evolution's website launches we would see some new and improved costumes .. please!
Here are some male costumes for your viewing pleasure:
To see more costumes check out these albums:
Evolution Launch Part 1
Evolution Launch Part 2
My question is, why don't band leaders come together and lobby the Government for the return of a stage since this is what masqueraders want. And if the Government refuses why don't band leaders come together and build their own stage?