Port of Spain, Trinidad (August 19, 2019)—The SKN All Star Band and their vocalists- Rucas HE (Casim Pemberton) and Delly Ranks (real name Delroy Huggins)- were in imperious form as they “came, conquered and delivered” according to the Trinidadian Master of Ceremonies- while giving a high energy performance that spoke to intra-regional relations.
Rucas HE and Deli Ranks are both staples on the soca circuit in St. Kitts and Nevis and throughout the region- both having won soca monarch titles on multiple occasions.
After their brief but impactful set, the MC who was in high praise for the performers indicated that “St. Kitts and Nevis all you mash up de place. I have to bring the audience back down to regular temperature!”
The culminating soca piece encouraged St. Kitts and Nevis delegates to find a new friend and hug them.
Minister of Culture in the Nevis Island Administration Hon. Eric Evelyn, was among those leading the charge to the directive, which embodied what Carifesta is about.
It was a festive affair as those in attendance bounced, waved flags, clapped and danced.
The SKN All Star Band was led by Nigel Williams, music specialist in the Ministry of Culture.
In an earlier performance, Calypso Craig (Craig McDowell)- a multiple time Calypso King for St. Kitts Nevis National Carnival- enthralled the patrons with a calypso rendition. So powerful was his message through song that he compelled a Trinidadian patron to capture a St. Kitts and Nevis flag. She waved it boldly while dancing to the rhythm.
Music is indeed a language of love and Carifesta 14 in Trinidad and Tobago is indicative of that.
For now, there is huge anticipation for the St. Kitts and Nevis country night, on August 22, which features an extended presentation of our culture through song, dance, the spoken word and drama.
