Halfway through de session last night, I looked back and my mind excitedly asked, ‘Where all dem people come from?’.
The session was mostly enjoyable. Calypso Tent season 2025 was in full swing, and a new location, Jack Idle, added to the experience. There was plenty of space, so you could pick your spot: at the back by the bar, in the middle seated at tables, out front right up by the stage, or off to the side to laugh and chat. You could even cozy up in a dimly lit corner and just relax and listen. If all of us present last night, especially the artists, bring one person next time, it would require additional seats.
The new venue had the bonus of a small crowd to supplement the long-time die-hards. The sports bar session twinning looks like a winning combination for an increased audience for this tent season.
A higher stage and the prospect of better shelter from the elements are all good selling points for the venue. While the parking lot with a short working distance is welcome, some lighting and security would be a bonus.
A late start and no apology did not sit well. All that faded as the band was crisp and on point when they finally got going. The sound was decent, but the shortcoming was a sound technician who seemed to pay little attention to the need to adjust the audio for the singer, so the audience could consistently hear the artist without straining their ears. Too often, the music overshadowed rather than complemented the artists. I’m looking forward to improvements in short order for this tent season.
The calypsonians presented themselves well. There was no candidate for the calypso jail last night as all the performers were fair to quite good. That was a disappointment for the seasoned tent fans. The presentations were a good mix of social and political commentary, a sprinkling of humour, droppings of history lessons, and well, Calypso did the thing last night, in good style.
Queen Ivena’s return to the stage as a backup singer was a conversation piece. There was a buzz: perhaps the prelude of more to come from round south. There was a welcoming reception for former juniors who returned to the art form in fine style and new artists, alongside the genuine appreciation for the regular artists.
The glaring absence last night was complementary commentary between the artists’ presentations. The MC, Patrice, was her usual darling self, but did not provide the biting engagement that goes along with Calypso tents. She made it clear that we, the audience, would need to help, and there was some effort. Perhaps with time, we will get accustomed to each other, or maybe a little tweak to that important, keep it all together, MC role.
The intermission, packed with ole-school calypso, brought out the dancing shoes; some made excellent use of the space.
Overall, a good night and a good time was had.
For Calypso lovers of all ages, the venue says come, chill, and enjoy. There is comfortable and available seating, space, a high stage for good viewing, room for a ‘session’, and room to just have a good time.
Jack Idle answered the call. The Calypsonians are in good form. The missing ingredient is more of us!!!