Munga - Take My Place

the Gangsta Ras with a cameo appearance by the DON

JAMAICAN JAMES BROWN

madwhitejamaican is at it again

Tarrus Riley - Lion Paw

Buju Banton Inna Heights 10th Anniversery

General Election done gone but we all have choices... Local coming up

SCORCH

http://www.thescorchmagazine.com/

the Honeymoon isn't over

Exactly three weeks since the PNM were victorious at the polls and installed the Cabinet. We know which Minister for which Ministry and which MP is Junior Minister and even which one is Deputy Speaker. All this has happened and the Prime Minister even found time to visit his counterpart in Uganda as part of a Commonwealth shindig.

What I really want to know is when will the honeymoon end and these Ministers and Senators start to work. The PM already stating that he will let us know next week... Why the wait? Tell us NOW! You making me feel like I begging you for something. Telling me that it isn't constitutionally due until sometime in March 2008. OH! OK! So after Carnival then.

The same disregard that Manning had for the populace before the election continues. I didn't expect different. I really didn't expect them to go to work immediately. Remember when Robbie gave them the country after 18-18... no work for the year and then when they 'won' in 2001 what then a next year of honeymoon. All work takes a back seat. They then dilly dally for three years and then pretend to go to work in the fifth year.

We Deliver because We Care.

Alicia Keys - No One (AMA performance)

I am not one to usually watch these award shows but the Tele I was sitting by was clicked onto the show and boy was I glad... Alicia Keys... featuring Junior Reid the timeless Chaka Demus & Pliers with 'Murder She Wrote' and then followed up with Beenie Man.

No Retreat, No Surrender

Elections are over and so is the Retreat at Salybia... it seemed like a honeymoon...


more to come... i eh dead... yet

Sean Paul - Watch Dem Roll

I Wayne - Book Of Life

I Wayne's new video 'Book of Life' and 'Need Her In I Arms' from the upcoming album on VP Records,'Book of Life'. Featuring 16 brand new tracks that are sure to excite roots and dancehall fans alike. In stores Nov. 6th 2007.

Real Talk DVD Magazine

Facebook Msg - de friggin worse yes

I got the following message from a Facebook friend and it really makes me wonder about the information available...

I thought we in the INFORMATION AGE or has it passed?

"I is ah man watching some new game show called "Merv Griffin crosswords" and yuh could imagine my absolute fucking shock and dismay when dis bacKside is tuh read ah question. A Jamaican percussion instrument.. AND IS TUH HAVE DE NERVE TUH SAY DE ANSWER IS STEElDRUM YES!!!!!!! Eh, I is man tuh let tings slide at times but oh god man when dis shit go stop??? Email dese assholes at info@programpartners.com and demand some sort of public retraction. We small as ah island but by no means invisible.. Shit man."

Ernie Smith imagines a 'Duppy Gunman'

I've always LOVED this song and its great to hear the inspiration from the artist himself.

Ernie Smith imagines a 'Duppy Gunman'

published: Sunday | October 28, 2007

Mel Cooke, Freelance Writer
If ever there was a case of a songwriter starting a song with the opposite of the real life situation which inspired it, it is Ernie Smith and Duppy Gunman.

Written one Saturday night in 1974, recorded the following Monday at Federal Studios, released that same mid-week and soaring to the top of the charts ("in those days everything I did went to number one except Power and The Glory. Michael banned that," Smith told The Sunday Gleaner), Duppy Gunman tells the tale of a romantic liaison that could have been. It opens:

I an I man forward
Pon a different scene
I an I man collie weed
I an I man queen
Everything was irie
Getting in the groove
We jus' a come dung to movement
When someone sey don't move

However, while there was a 'queen', there was no getting down to movements.
"I had just played a gig. In those days I had a friend who used to help me lift the equipment. Coming home from the gig I got a girl to go home with. I dropped him home. Me and the girl going on a liaison. I got the feeling like my friend is sitting there," Smith said.

Violence and duppy

The friend had been in the back of the VW van he was driving.
"I said 'It feels like Robbie is still sitting there. I said 'It must be a duppy'. Then I thought about the violence and I said 'or a gunman'. I said 'It is a song'," a laughing Ernie Smith told The Sunday Gleaner.
Hence the chorus:

It mus be a duppy or a gunman
I man no fin' out yet
I an I did so frighten
All de daughter name I feget

He may or may not have forgotten the 'daughter's' name by now, but he did forget whatever intentions were at hand before the song came. "I never bothered to go home with the girl. I went to my real home and wrote the song. She was very upset," he said.

There is some similarity to that real life anger in the fictional musical tale, as Smith sings "The nex' day de daughter ask me, what happen to yu las' night, jus' when yu ready fi work de show, yu ketch stage fright".

And one line that was definitely taken from something that really happened was when Smith sings "One ting me know fe certain, spread it round the town, it no mek no no sense yu run before yu foot touch the ground".

"There was a guy who described sitting in his living room and watching a thief in his pear tree. All he said was 'hi sah' and the man started running in mid-air. When the man hit the ground his feet were like a car burning rubber. That is where that line came from," Smith said. He was told that story a couple weeks before the song was written.

Sometimes Smith changes the name of the speedster recorded as the point of reference for fleetness of foot in 1974 ("Quarrie was a bway to I man las' night, him coulden falla me") to Asafa Powell and he says no other outstanding Jamaican sprinters have been used in between. And on occasion he adjusts the chorus and sings "I an I did so frighten all me underwear I feget". "Sometimes I sing it like that if there are not too many children around," he said.

The distinctive trombone featured on Duppy Gunman is the work of Trinidadian Jerome Francique and the Now Generation Band supplied the music.

Smith laughs as he says he hopes non-Jamaicans who jam to the song understand the lyrics and adds that "A lot of non-Jamaicans who are into reggae understand the song".

And a song that was "an instant hit" has been a lasting one as well. "These days when I do that song anywhere I ask the audience to join in and sing the chorus. They know every word," Smith said.

Shaggy - Bonafide Girl

Bonafide Girl feat. Rik Rok, from the new album by Shaggy, "Mr. Boombastic" himself,'Intoxication' from VP Records/Big Yard Music Group. Shaggy is back with this blazing new release on Nov 13th.

Alison Hinds - Soca Queen

Caribbean's Queen of Soca Alison Hinds set to release highly anticipated debut solo album. (Album in Stores in CANADA)

Hailing from the tropical island of Barbados, and crowned the undisputed "Queen of Soca" by fans worldwide, the British born Alison Hinds is set to introduce the rest of the world to the power and passion of Soca (Southern Caribbean) music, which is rapidly gaining popularity among music lovers around the globe. Since its dominant reign at the top of charts throughout the Caribbean, to New York City's prominent HOT 97 airwaves, to the BBC Radio in England, to Canada's premier music channel Much Music, Alison Hinds’ first single and video Roll It Gal has been gaining major global momentum, setting the stage for the highly anticipated U.S. release of her solo debut album, aptly titled Soca Queen (1720 Entertainment/Black Coral) on Tuesday November 6.

Soca Queen is an upbeat collection of original songs, which captures Alison Hinds’ passionate sensual vocals, infectious driving rhythms and spirited lyrics. Armed with the stronghold support of her worldwide Caribbean fan base, the superstar touch of executive producer Salaam Remi (Amy Winehouse, Nas, Fugees), and fortified by the highly regarded Caribbean production team comprised of Shel$hok (Wyclef Jean, Machel Montano, Maximus Dan), Chris Allman (Rupee, David Kirton), and Nicholas Brancker (Shabba Ranks, Simply Red, Rob Flack), the Soca Queen is prepared to broaden her domain.

On releasing her first solo album, the Queen of Soca proudly proclaims, "Soca is what I'm known for, so I want the music to represent who I am. It's infectious and happy, but can still say something and touch lives." Upon its initial release throughout the Caribbean, Alison Hinds’ first single Roll It Gal shot to the top of the charts in Barbados, Trinidad and throughout the Caribbean almost instantly, where it has become a summer anthem. The video for Roll It Gal was ranked No. 1 for ten weeks on MTV's TEMPO (MTV network's channel devoted to Caribbean Music, viewed in over 20 Caribbean countries).

Currently, the Roll It Gal video has been added to MTV Jams, VH-1 Soul and is among the most viewed videos on MySpace.Com. The smash anthem Roll It Gal is also available for download on iTunes! worldwide, AOL, Yahoo! and all premium online download destinations. Additionally, Roll It Gal ringtones are available on every major wireless carrier throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Alison Hinds is on an unstoppable roll as she continues to tantalize legions of jubilant fans with her provocative, sexy, high-energy concerts throughout the US, Canada, Europe and the Caribbean, including upcoming appearances at the carnivals in London, Brooklyn, and Miami. Recent tour highlights include: a featured guest appearances at the annual Reggae Sumfest (Jamaica's leading Reggae festival) along with LL Cool J, Shaggy, Buju Banton, and a special performance at the ICC Cricket World Cup opening and closing ceremonies, which was broadcast to an audience of over one billion worldwide.

Soca Queen Tracklisting

1. The More - 4:38
   
2. Faluma - 3:58
   
3. Roll It Gal - 4:01
   
4. Thundah - 3:25
   
5. Blazin' - 4:44
   
6. Island Girl - 4:20
   
7. Caution - 3:56
   
8. Ladies Rule - 4:18
   
9. My Space - 4:05
   
10. Good Morning - 3:33
    
11. The Show - 3:40
    
12. In The Name Of Love - 4:17
    
13. Soca Nation - 3:46
    
14. Togetherness - 4:20
    
15. Roll It Gal (Rishi Rich Remix) - 3:26
    

http://www.myspace.com/alisonhinds

Radioactive Fireball

Just to update on 'FIREBALL' who's 'What I Want' has made it onto mainstream compilations in the US. Fireball's operatic style has certainly caught the ears of the international listening public. He has been added to the latest installment (October '07) of the X-MIX Radioactive Rhythm & Top 40 Series. Check out Track #6!

For those who haven't heard/seen it yet I posted the vid that is on YouTube here

http://bandwagonist.blogspot.com/2007/07/fireball-what-i-want.html

Nike, Rane and Serato

Nike, Rane and Serato team up to create the Air Force 1 and Scratch LIVE Package to celebrate the AF1’s 25th anniversary

As part of the Air Force 1’s silver anniversary, Nike has collaborated with cutting-edge partners Rane and Serato to create a special edition AF1 and White Scratch LIVE package. The collaboration recognizes the intersection of sports, music and innovation within hip-hop culture.

For the past 25 years the Air Force 1 has made a journey from an innovative performance product to a hip-hop icon. In recognition of this, Rane and Serato have worked with Nike to produce the truly innovative Scratch LIVE package for the digital-age hip-hop DJ.

The Serato Scratch

Central to hip-hop culture is the DJ, whose developed and perfected skills now benefit from the latest technology with Rane’s Serato Scratch LIVE – a revolutionary product that enables DJs to control digital audio files on their laptop with vinyl control records on their turntables.

Air Force 1 and Scratch LIVE Package

Popular Japanese company Head-Porter was approached to create a custom-made bag for transporting a laptop, the Scratch LIVE units and accessories. Constructed from white ballistic nylon, the bag features the Nike pivot logo which references the iconic sole detail of the AF1. To complete the pack, the commemorative White/White AF1 shoe sports the Scratch LIVE logo and incorporates the same white ballistic nylon used for the bag.

A limited number of Air Force 1 and Scratch LIVE packages were created for leading DJs around the globe. Unfortunately, none of these packages are available for purchase.

About the Journey of Force

Nike has always been obsessed with making the athletic experience better through functional design. At Nike that means designing with a purpose, and understanding the sport and the culture that surrounds it.

Over the past 25 years the Air Force 1 made a journey from an innovative performance product to a cultural icon. To celebrate the silver anniversary, Nike incorporated the feedback of athletes and the community that has embraced the AF1 over the past 25 years to bring unparalleled craftsmanship and meaningful enhancements to the AF1. And the journey continues. With the AF25 Nike launches its newest FORCE innovation in performance basketball, the platform from which to build the future of Nike basketball.

About Serato

Serato Audio Research formed a product partnership with Rane Corporation in 2004 with Serato Scratch LIVE. Scratch LIVE is a revolutionary product that enables DJs to control digital audio files on their laptop with vinyl control records on their turntables. Since then Serato has expanded its reputation for excellent pro DJ products. Serato was founded in the studio world for its Pitch ‘n Time pro audio plug-in which is loved by audio engineers the world over, and has been recognized as the market leader in time and pitch adjustment since its inception in 1999.
For more information, visit Serato.com

About Rane Corporation

Rane Corporation is an established innovator in problem-solving audio tools, professionally engineered with a focus on science, price/performance, and not frills and hype. Designed and manufactured exclusively in the United States, Rane’s product distribution is worldwide. Rane’s primary marketplaces are DJ (performance, club, mobile & recording), Live Sound (FOH and monitoring) and Commercial (music & paging, networked systems) featuring innovative analog and digital audio products for each category.

Click image above for high-res (print) jpg.

Dr. Ring Ding - Ruff like a rock

Desperate Houseflies

Check out jointpop's new documentary "Desperate Houseflies" on the 25th Oct at Movie Town.

Michael Franti and Spearhead : Hello Bonjour

Lets Talk Numbers

"Some Man Ah PLAY Number 2 TOO"

Ever since the COP's REAL RED Event in Woodford Square every politician has become an expert in estimating crowd size. The best so far has been Mr. Dr. Manning... I think that Honorary Doctorate really helping him out.

The first argument was on how many people attended (REAL Red) and how many people the Square could actually hold. NOW I myself haven't attended any of these events but I have been to the venues in dispute and I also have seen some big crowds. I won't venture into the numbers game myself but I think if the POLICE have their official estimate we should go with that.

The BIG winner in this controversy (so far) has been the UNC Alliance. They are claiming 45,000 at their Drums of UNITY event @ Mid Centre Mall Car Park, Chaguanas. Yes there were alot of people and I believe them when they say how many people were there because they know for sure how many people they Bused, Maxied and Taxied to it. It was a great exercise in mobilization. It was a great show of FARCE FORCE.

At Woodford Square the day before the PNM (Patrick) claims they had 25,000. Initial plans were to have 41,000 people... 1,000 from every constituency. Special sailing of the Fast Ferry from Tobago probably didn't have enough space for the 2,000 people. Mr. Dr. Manning also plans to ask tell the executive to make October 6th a special day on the PNM's calendar, a mark of respect for the bumper crowd they had. I wonder if the PNM under (a real doctorate) Dr. Eric Williams ever had such supporter turnout. I not old enough to know... or care.

Skinner Park saw the COP and they claim much the same figures as the PNM. Its also the same estimate the police provided for the REAL Red Event. This is why I say that the UNC are the big winners.

45,000! WOW! I think the last time I saw a crowd nearing anything like that (in Trinidad) was at the Queen's Park Oval. NO... Not for cricket. It was a concert featuring Richard Marx, Christopher Cross and Air Supply. Most of the stands were full and at least half of the playing field.

Another case where the numbers apparently can be skewed is during the screening process ala PNM. I don't know how they do it but from media reports that have been substantiated by other party members it has a formula of its own.

First off, were polls of the sitting MPs that sampled (in some instances) less than 10% of the electorate. STRIKE ONE!

Then came the actual cut of day for nomination papers. This was back in August... I stand to be corrected but I remember hearing Marcia Henville on Power 102 interviewing an activist from Morvant/Lavantille who wasn't able to be nominated because she didn't follow the correct procedure and have all her papers ready by the particular date. STRIKE TWO!

The final strike also deals with the nominations. Certain Nominees were rejected even though they had the support of 90% of the party groups of an area. Was it that the one or two groups that disagreed hold so much power? This also leads me to question how Amery Brown really oust Ken Valley if Valley was the only nominee? I tort nominations were closed? STRIKE THREE!

At the end of it all the only numbers that matter are the ones on Polling day. The PNM in Trinidad & Tobago have a history of getting approximately the same number of votes (by constituency) every election (claims of voter padding not included). When there is high Voter Turnout the PNM has problems. They Lose (1986) and even tie. Even though the numbers in the ties aren't as high as the Loss there is clearly a pattern. When enough people want change they have to make the choice to change by acting on it.

This general election promises to have a High Turnout... I mean the amount of disgruntled people I keep hearing.

I know I am going to exercise my franchise... for the first time too...

Don't forget... Local Government elections were postponed in 2006... when is that election gonna be?...

Bounty Killer - Which One? (a Duppy Art Production)

Tessanne Chin- Blackbooks

Follow up single to the breakout Hit 'Hideaway'



www.myspace.com/tessannechin

Westwood Park

In this season of intrigue I happen to stumble upon locally produced soap opera Westwood Park available for download.

Westwood Park: S1 - E01
From: Wysiwyg Films
Running time: 40 min
Director: Danielle Dieffenthaller
Producer: Danielle Dieffenthaller
Writer: Bernard Hazell, Antoinette Hagley, Danielle Dieffenthaller, Writers Inc.
Cast: Dennis McComie, Debra Boucaud Mason, Roland Hagley, Alicia Allahar, Simone Harris, Natacha Jones, Richard Ragoobarsingh, Learie Joseph, Dianne Smith, Maxine Williams, Theresa Awai, Wendy-Ann Garcia, Princess Donelan, Wendell Etienne, Maurice Brash, Jade Drakes, Rajendra Bajnathsingh, Cyril Collier

Westwood Park weaves the story of the Du Soleil and Gunn-Munroe families, whose affluent lifestyles and picture-perfect smiles become less than idyllic on closer inspection. The manipulative and power-hungry Herbert dominates the Gunn-Munroe clan, while the conscious and upstanding Jonathan heads the Du Soleil family. In Season One, the two families, residents of the affluent Westwood Park neighbourhood, are locked in a tenuous friendship, underscored by intrigue and passion, as they approach their unification through the impending marriage of their children. This delicate relationship is tested even more when the sexy and alluring Maya descends upon Westwood Park, unleashing demons from the past and throwing the lives of its inhabitants into utter turmoil. Set in lush and luxurious locations rarely seen in Caribbean dramas, Westwood Park is driven by the universal topics of love, hate, power, lust, greed, corruption, romance, heartbreak and the strife for social justice and consciousness.

Valley of...?

Mr. Valley said yesterday in no uncertain terms that he hopes Trinidadians see what is coming further down the road if they do not act now...

got the following in a group I was invited to join on Facebook...

I am addressing this message to all persons who cherish T&Ts democracy, of all political parties, or of none, and of all ages. I appeal to you to put country first.

The forthcoming election is like none before. This is not merely a contest to choose a government to govern our beloved country under our present constitution.

Political leader Patrick Manning has declared his intention should he win, to change the constitution of T&T, to become Executive President. This threat cannot be taken lightly, because many of Manning's actions betray a frightening dictatorial streak which citizens must reject, by registering to vote, and more importantly, by voting on election day.

I submit the following for your consideration:

1. I came to know Mr Kenneth Valley in 1987 when we both served in the senate. He was appointed a PNM senator by Manning in his party's darkest hour, following the NAR 33-3 victory at the polls. Valley has since been a loyal PNM front man, a deputy political leader, Chief Whip and leader of government business in parliament, and a cabinet minister highly respected by the business community which he serves. That all constituency groups have nominated him and no one else, to contest the next elections, is proof enough that the people of Diego Martin Central want him as their representative. Yet Manning rejected Valley, based on a flimsy poll of 240 persons in a constituency exceeding 25,000 and seeks to replace the peoples' candidate with a candidate of his own. Not only is Manning subverting the PNM constitution by his secret poll, he overrides the wishes of the people, and disregards Valley's performance as a minister.

2. Almost half the elected PNM representatives chosen by the people are being removed to make way for Manning's nominees. The peoples' representatives must choose their leader, but the roles are reversed, and the leader is choosing the representatives for the people. This surely is democracy turned on its head.

3. Manning rejected the offer of Mr Anthony Garcia, Fatima College principal and a former TUTTA president, as a candidate for the elections. The far-fetched reason given – Garcia's son is married to Christine Kangaloo, a minister in his cabinet. While thus indicating his distaste for family connections in his administration, he nevertheless appointed his wife a cabinet minister. These events amongst others, demonstrate his preference for pliable individuals around him. He feels threatened by persons of substance, who can think independently.

4. Manning has built himself a $148 million palace but abandoned President House to rot and ruin. President Max Richards meanwhile has been made to make do in the "maid's quarters" behind the crumbling President House.

5. When Uganda's head of state President Musevini visited recently, protocol required that T&Ts head of state President Richards should have welcomed him. But Manning jumped ahead of President Richards' and pushed Richards aside.

6. Without any scruples, Manning subverts the constitution of T&T and the PNM, and to pamper his ever burgeoning ego, he willy-nilly disregards accepted protocol.

7. The Red House is revered by many as T&Ts historical seat of government. All the debates of our colonial past, the voices of Cipriani, Butler, Albert Gomes, the Sinanans and Capildeos, Raymond Quevedo, Eric Williams - all echoed in its hallowed chamber. Our independence was ushered in at the Red House in 1962; it witnessed the lowering of the Union Jack, and the raising of T&Ts flag. It withstood and survived the violent onslaught on our democracy in 1990, and so much history dwells within those walls. When unveiling the plaque in the parliamentary chamber recently to honour her late father, Erica Williams urged that the Red House remain the seat of our parliament. Yet without any consultation with the people, or even the parliament staff, Manning seeks to eject parliament from the Red House to make it his office, and even to squat cheek and jowl on the steps of the Red House, encroaching on the sanctity of parliament, and compromising the separation of legislature and executive.

8. Under Manning's draft constitution, a constitution with little input from the people, the people, you and I, will have no voice in electing the Executive President as in the United States. Instead, the PNM executive controlled by Manning will choose the Executive President. If he becomes Executive President, Manning will simply extend his powers to include those now vested in President Max Richards, and Richards will disappear. With his handpicked MPs he will have total control of parliament. He will influence or control the appointment of every state officer, including members of the judiciary. Many of Manning's decisions have demonstrated bias, either political, cultural or racial, and citizens like Marlene Coudray, Fareeza Mohommed and Devant Maharaj have had to resort to our courts to redress injustices. The Maha Sabha got their radio licence 5 years late, on the orders of the Privy Council.

Guyana had Forbes Burnham. Zimbabwe has Robert Mugabe. Will Trinidad and Tobago vote to preserve its democracy? I urge you all to put country before party, put country before politics, put Trinidad & Tobago first.

Michael J Williams
Maracas Valley

Who Is Your Leader?

I heard a lil pice of conversation today and apparently the UNC Alliance is leaning toward naming Kamla as their leader. Mr. Cadiz was on radio this morning dodging the question of one single leader only trying to emphasise that the Leadership Council is a first in World Politics and that it works.

The belief in nominating Kamla comes from gathering the support of women voters. Apparently there have been polls to suggest this. Naming Kamla now neither strengthens nor weakens the UNC Alliance because I still see it as a ploy for votes from a damaged Alliance. Who is to say that if the UNC Alliance happens to win the general elections that the same said Council won't change their minds about leadership?

The Council at least realises that Mr. Panday for all his years of service to the country isn't what the people want. But this leads me to question the choice of Kamla... Isn't she the same one who endorsed Mr. Panday... will her leadership be HER LEADERSHIP? or will it be Bas' prompting?

this is just my take on my MACO... Jack is back in the country and they meeting right now in Emerald Plaza...

UPDATE - Jack & Bas in power sharing agreement... I waiting to hear Cadiz comments now... 

Dr. Kirk Meigho (DNA) was interviewed by Julian Rogers on C's Campaign 41 this evening and also seemed to want Kamla as the leader of the Alliance... Dr. Kirk had a meeting with the Council on Tuesday that didn't go as well as he would have liked... Leadership was one issue. Apparently Dr. Kirk's plan for T&T involves 2 Prime Ministers and a Federal President. I know Bas doh want to hear nuttin about that...

Don't BLINK!... as yet

TSTT has been advertising for the past couple of weeks. This is their answer to FLOW's Click service. Its called Blink Broadband. Right now the coverage area isn't that large but promises to grow as the months go on. Both TSTT and FLOW aren't really winning any points with limited availability of their services. FLOW hasn't fully upgraded all to Digital but already looking to have a fee increase. While TSTT fighting a cellular WAR with Digicel and rolling out the new Broadband to 3 communities. BANANA REPUBLIC (without agriculture)!

TSTT sends me an email about being a valued customer... this is after I wrote to say disconnect me.

Dear Valued Customer,

As a valued customer of TSTT, allow me to take this opportunity to personally thank you for your business to date.

You may already be aware that TSTT has been a proud investor in the nations Internet infrastructure over the years. We have been working assiduously over the last year to achieve a dramatic modernization of our network which now allows us to
efficiently deliver broadband services to world class standards.

We are pleased and excited to introduce you to blinkbroadband and to inform that you have been specially selected to experience the ultimate in broadband service.

This service is soon to be deployed throughout Trinidad & Tobago, beginning this month with customers served by the West, Diego Martin, and San Juan exchange areas included in the first phase. The second phase, inclusive of four additional exchanges, is due to begin by mid November. Look out for updates announcing the arrival of Blink Broadband to your area.

Blink Broadband simply put; is broadband redefined, brought to you over one of the most sophisticated networks operational in the world.

So confident are we in this new service that we are certain that you will visit our website at www.blinkbroadband.tt or call one of our customer service representatives at 62-BLINK to review our new array of packages. We look forward to being of
continued service to you and to your feedback on our new service offering.

Yours sincerely
Trevor Deane
Executive Vice President Broadband
TSTT

Trevor, I can see an exchange from my bedroom window and I not in the initial rollout! I guess I am not as valued as I thought and will stay without the service. TSTT's pricing is comparative to FLOW's and they Install for FREE along with a FREE Modem? All of that FREENESS and I still want a Smart Choice Discount.

I Voting for Valley...

I've seen and heard this alot over the past few weeks with some people coming outright now ezpecially as PM Mr. Dr. Manning announced the election date. I have no problem with people announcing their intention. I find it very useful information. I also think it good that his constituents are supportive of him. I think that Manning should listen to them. No one else was nominated for the seat. So why wouldn't you want Mr. Valley?

The Express has a leading headline today that says the PM want Ms. Universe. It seems weird to me that a man who wants to be a pastor (and drive an articulated bus) would want to highlight someone who actively persued and had a child out of wedlock. Completely againts the rules of organised religion. Then again the PM understands that people make mistakes and can be forgiven. He can simply overlook this and see that Ms. Universe has something to offer the country.

PNM WANTS WENDY
Former Miss Universe tipped for Valley's seat
Anna Ramdass aramdass@trinidadexpress.com
Monday, October 1st 2007

PROSPECTIVE PNM CANDIDATE: Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam
Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam has been tipped as one of the prospective candidates to replace Diego Martin Central MP Ken Valley.

Fitzwilliam, who is currently the Vice President/General manager of Evolving Technologies and Enterprise Development Company Ltd (E-teck) might be one of the "new faces" Prime Minister Patrick Manning spoke about at a PNM political meeting in St Augustine last Friday, it was learned yesterday..

If Fitzwilliam decides to fulfil any political aspirations, the election battle will become a Queen versus Queen scenario as former Miss Trinidad and Tobago representative for Miss Universe Nicole Dyer is an active member of the Congress of the People (COP) and also their public relations officer. It will soon be revealed whether Dyer will contest any political seat when the COP presents its slate of candidates.

Fitzwilliam won the Miss Universe Pageant in 1998 and later became involved in social work. She was honoured by the United Nations with the title UNAIDS goodwill Ambassador, a result of her commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS.

She also a holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of the West Indies and was said to have been doing a remarkable job at E-teck-a Government company mandated to develop Trinidad's non-energy sector through the creation of new industry.

Speculation of Fitzwilliam's candidacy is high in the political arena, "I have heard about it, and if it is true then it will be very interesting," Dyer told the Express yesterday.

The PNM screening committee-blanked Valley, the current MP for Diego Martin and a call for new candidates was made.

Valley was screened as the lone candidate for Diego Martin Central last Thursday at Balisier House, Port of Spain but, was given the boot one day later-on Friday, the day Manning announced that General Elections will be held on November 5.

That very evening Manning told a massive crowd at St Augustine that the PNM will be presenting new faces and future leaders of Trinidad when the party presents its slate of candidates at Woodford Square, Port of Spain this Saturday.

Members of the Diego Martin Central Executive have maintained their staunch devotion and support to Valley and were not surrendering to any "new face" for that constituency seat.

Sources told the Express that Valley who has been fighting for a second chance since a PNM poll rated him as a low performing MP will continue to battle Manning who is hell bent on shaking up and changing the party for the elections.

The party was non committal on Fitzwilliam's candidacy.

"Right now it's an internal process going on and we have no official position in that regard," said PNM's Public Relations Officer Jerry Narace.

"It's news to me" said Valley when told by the Express about Fitzwilliam's possible candidacy.

Valley said he had no comment to make on being blanked by the screening committee.

The Express tried in vain to contact Fitzwilliam yesterday.

Meanwhile Valley reacted yesterday and I definitely heard a quiver in his voice. He's upset. Very Upset.

Screening a sham, says Valley
Juhel Browne jbrowne@trinidadexpress.com
Monday, October 1st 2007

God's plan: Kenneth Valley
Trade and Industry Minister Kenneth Valley has described his screening as the unopposed nominee for Diego Martin Central by the ruling's party's screening committee last Thursday was "a sham."

The PNM Diego Martin Central constituency executive was instructed by Prime Minister Patrick Manning, in his capacity as the party's political leader to find another nominee after Valley, the area's MP and PNM deputy political leader, was screened on Thursday.

His screening had been postponed for two weeks after he was referred to the PNM's disciplinary committee which eventually cleared him for screening.

"The screening was a sham and the question is whether my constituency does not have a legitimate right to have me as its candidate," Valley said in an interview with the Express yesterday.

He said that only the members of the PNM Diego Martin Central constituency executive asked him any questions during Thursday's screening as is allowed in the party's constitution.

"Not one member of the screening committee asked me any questions," Valley said .

He said the constituency executive's chairman said it only received Manning's instructions to find a new nominee yesterday morning, after reports on television on Saturday night and in the newspapers yesterday that he had been rejected by the committee.

"It seems the newspapers and the television stations were informed before the constituency," Valley said.

He said the constituency executive chairman told him that another of the PNM's deputy political leaders, Culture and Gender Affairs Minister Joan Yuille-Williams will be meeting them today at 6 pm.

Valley said he and his constituency held a church service yesterday morning and he "was at peace."

"When you see madness happening you try to see what is God's plan," he said.

Valley, the longstanding high profile PNM MP who has served twice as a Government Minister within the last 26 years said the controversy surrounding his screening would have repercussions beyond his constituency in the upcoming General Election.

"Somebody seems to have a desire to have the PNM lose the election and I would just stand by and watch. Of course, the party is not a man," Valley said.

He said he has not thrown in the towel and will continue to fight to become the PNM candidate for the Diego Martin Central for the sixth time.

"I will test all the processes of the party," Valley said.

He said the constituency executive had already informed him that they intend ed to again recommend him as its nominee for Diego Martin Central, despite Manning's instructions.

"As they have told me, they are going back with their candidate. It is up to the central executive. If the internal processes of the party will not work, the county will have to take note of what is happening," Valley said.

The ongoing controversy surrounding Valley's screening has led some to conclude that Manning just does not want him to contest the upcoming General Election.

On Friday, Manning said in response to a question from the Express that he had "no issue" with Valley and the issue merely involved an adherence to the PNM's screening process

"So at every stage there is an opportunity to do something different from what was done before," Manning said .

The PNM's constitution, however, gives the party's political leader a veto vote with regard to nominees recommended by any constituency executive.

Valley along with everyone else in the party is well aware that what the PM wants he gets...

PNM leader has veto
Monday, October 1st 2007

The PNM's constitution gives the political leader a veto vote with regard to the screening of nominees.

The document, which is available on the PNM's website, outlines the screening process as follows:

The nominees selected by Party Groups, and Constituency Youth Leagues shall appear as summoned before the Political Leader who shall be assisted by a - Screening Committee.

The Political Leader and the Screening Committee shall interview the nominees in consultation with the Constituency Executive or Executives concerned, which shall meet separately, before the meeting with the Screening Committee, to assess the Party Groups and Constituency Youth League nominee and determine which (if any) of the nominees will, in their opinion, be most acceptable.

The Political Leader shall not be bound to accept the recommendation of the Constituency Executive.

If, after consultation with the Screening Committee, the Political Leader considers the Executive's recommendation unsatisfactory, he may require the Executive to make a new nomination.

The Screening Committee shall comprise the following Officers of the Movement:

The Political Leader-Chairman

The Party's Chairman-Vice Chairman

The Deputy Political Leaders-Members

The Party's Vice Chairman-Member

The Lady Vice Chairman-Member

The General Secretary-Member

The Elections Officer-Member

The Public Relations Officer-Member

The Party Operations Officer-Member

The Political Leader, in consultation with the Screening Committee, shall make written recommendations to the Central Executive whose decision shall be final.

Democracy in action...

I just hope that all who say they voting for Valley mean it. It makes no sense to clamour for a representative and subsequently support a crapaud when given that option.

Tribal WAR

I only used the headline to get you to start reading. This post has nothing to do with WAR but deals with the challenges that we face because we are of different Tribes.

I was invited to an Iftar by a friend's co-worker/friend. Now it wasn't close to where we live but Trinidad not that big either. With directions in hand we set off 15 minutes later than I wanted to. I knew the exit to take but I was worried about the '10-15 minute drive on a road that seemed never ending'... that was part of the directions (we got). The directions were as accurate as you can get. I found the place with relative ease but too close to the actual time I wanted to be there... If You're on time you're Late... I was on time.

The formalities over we headed North, back to the relative safety and comfort of an area that I am more knowledgeable of. This is where the Tribal WAR starts. My friend, thankful for the Southern Hospitality, questioned the feeling of being outcast. I don't know how else to describe it. The atmosphere at the Iftar wasn't the same as I was accustomed to... but then again I rarely go to places where I don't know many people. The 'outcast' feeling was weird as the assumption was that Muslim people should be warm to others, especially at this time of year. I had to state that this was one of my problems with Muslims in Trinidad but it isn't a problem that is unique to Trinidad or ISLAM.

Tribal WARfare exists in many different facets. In this election season we are going to see it. There will be division between Race, Class, Ilk, Profession... all differing Tribes. Different people falling into different Tribes on different occasions. Our Tribes allow us to feel comfortable among others. We have a sense of security knowing others are the same. Knowing that they have the same beliefs, qualifications and even race. It isn't easy to go into a community and immediately be welcomed as an equal... even if you have the qualifications. You sometimes have to prove yourself. On this particular evening I didn't have the time nor did I see the need. It was fitting (this morning) that I heard the Mufti on radio speaking about 'the Family' on radio while I was having my Sehri.

The conversation that was spawned dealt mainly with me expressing my views on the divisions in Islam and personal experiences with family that I met for the first time. I am not about to write about the divisions in Islam as I don't believe that there should be any and I also am not qualified to do so. Nope! I am not an Islamic scholar. I can and will try to write about a personal experience.

I met a family that I had no interaction with for the majority of my life earlier this year. I met the parents 25 years ago, and then only the father about 10-12 years ago. My thought processes were all over the place. They were now a family of 6. Four children that I had never met and had no real knowledge of. Would they talk to me? Would they be uncomfortable with this stranger? Guess what... they all welcomed me into their lives with open arms. It was as if I was living there with them all the time. Thats the beauty of belonging to a Tribe. This was a family Tribe. A Tribe that welcomed a member unknown to them but 'known' to the elders. Just the knowledge that this person has some of the same roots as them. It would link to upbringing and belief.

As I write this I remember being welcomed back into another Tribe earlier this year. I wasn't with them for 2 years but I returned into the Tribe with no real rumblings. There was one incident where another Tribe member questioned my membership but it sorted itself out as Tribal Politics tends to do.

You see, we all belong to different Tribes at different times in our lives. Recently, Facebook has allowed me to find members of Tribes from my school days. We were all part of the same Tribe then and part of a new Tribe now... Facebook.

I don't know what to write again... I tired... this wasn't really a planned blurb... I leave you with this...

Its all about feeling a sense of belonging... (right now) I belong to Trinidad and I long to be here.

i guess at some point in time i will finish writing this but then again...

Ting-a-Ling-a-Ling

Well i should have known today would have been the call cause the PNM were rolling into St. Augustine... I think that's where Manning (the PNM) kicked off the last campaign... I stand to be corrected... doesn't matter anyway the BELL RING... time for the action to start.

Let me start by saying that the date shouldn't be a problem for any religious body unless it was falling on a religious hol(i/y)day. If you fasting you can still VOTE!

I would like to inform Mr. Dr. Manning that there are original peoples of Trinidad. While he was speaking tonight (28 Sept 2007, St. Augustine Hi-Lo Car Park) he misinformed his congregation of supporters that ALL of us, TRINBAGONIANS, were not the original inhabitants of this land. Mr. Dr. Manning I would have to make the assumption that you do not recognize the Carib community in Santa Rosa, Arima, as being Trinibagonian.

I have attended quite a few functions/cultural receptions at the Prime Minister's Residence, while you were Prime Minister, where these original (First Nations) peoples were invited to perform their rituals. Mr. Dr. Manning I would also have to assume that you weren't paying any attention to them at these functions.

I am not a Carib but a Trinibagonian and I would appreciate if you apologise to the Carib community and the Nation (Trinidad & Tobago) as a whole for this error. It was not the only inaccuracy in your speech but the one I thought most relevant to our Nation as you were talking about National Unity and bringing Cultures, Religions and Races together.

UPDATE: It seems that this has been a problem within the Manning administration. while scouring the internet on related issues i stumbled upon this post in another blog... Letter from Cristo Adonis (Carib, Trinidad)

The Manicou Report: Election Day in Trinidad & Tobago

The Manicou Report: Election Day in Trinidad & Tobago

other elections held on Nov 5th...

Nixon Wins By A Thin Margin, Pleads For Reunited Nation

1952: Landslide victory for Eisenhower

1940 President Franklin D. Roosevelt won an unprecedented third term in office, beating Republican challenger Wendell L. Willkie.

Joseph: Crime a major problem

the following is an article from the Trinidad Guardian (Friday, September 28, 2007). The article, written by Yvonne Webb, was buried on page 24.

Joseph: Crime a major problem
National Security Minister Martin Joseph has acknowledged that the most serious challenge facing T&T is crime and violence.
He said it was the Government's main priority and measures were being put in place to treat with this issue.
He was speaking at a PNM political meeting in Fyzabad on Monday.
Joseph also cited a United Nations and World Bank report done in March to say that crime was a problem in the Caribbean.
He said:"The PNM did not need a document to tell us that. We knew that and the Prime Minister and Head of the National Security Council recognised that the first thing the Government had to do was to reduce the inflow of drugs and guns coming into the country."
The Government purchased three offshore vessels to partol the coastline, installed a 360 degree radar system and strengthened existing legislation.
He said:"There is an impression being given by those opposed to them that the PNM has failed to provide the country with the level of security and safety necessary.
"They have given you the impression that under the PNM we sat back and allowed crime and violence to escalate.
"They believe they could use that as an issue to remove us from government. We are going to show them that this is not the case.
"This election is not going to be a one election issue election," Joseph said.
He said while Government was not totally satisfied with the speed at which the reduction in crime was happening, law enforcement officers had noted changes and a reduction in major crimes such as murders and kidnapping.

now here are my reactions as i read the article...

Joseph: Crime a major problem (finally an admission)
National Security Minister Martin Joseph has acknowledged that the most serious challenge facing T&T is crime and violence. (Nah he lie.. i tort there were no challenges)
He said it was the Government's main priority and measures were being put in place to treat with this issue. (how long now the population clamouring for some action?)
He was speaking at a PNM political meeting in Fyzabad on Monday. (to SHEEP or LEMMINGS?)
Joseph also cited a United Nations and World Bank report done in March to say that crime was a problem in the Caribbean. (AH, what would we do if the international community didn't alert us?)
He said:"The PNM did not need a document to tell us that. We knew that and the Prime Minister and Head of the National Security Council recognised that the first thing the Government had to do was to reduce the inflow of drugs and guns coming into the country." (well if you didn't need a document why quote one? and isn't the PM also the Head of the NS Council??)
The Government purchased three offshore vessels to partol the coastline, installed a 360 degree radar system and strengthened existing legislation. (but are these things operational/being utilised/enforced?)
He said:"There is an impression being given by those opposed to them that the PNM has failed to provide the country with the level of security and safety necessary. (ok is not the PNM fault its the Police... you are correct :P)
"They have given you the impression that under the PNM we sat back and allowed crime and violence to escalate. (thats no impression, that's reality!)
"They believe they could use that as an issue to remove us from government. We are going to show them that this is not the case. (well show me what is)
"This election is not going to be a one election issue election," Joseph said. (DAMN STR8, there are alot more issues to go along with crime... corruption, health, corruption, housing, corruption... did I mention corruption?)
He said while Government was not totally satisfied with the speed at which the reduction in crime was happening, law enforcement officers had noted changes and a reduction in major crimes such as murders and kidnapping. (This (fill in the blank) still talking about murders and kidnapping... I worried about them stealing my car, breaking into my home, robbing my family when they walking on the road, raping people... all crime should be considered MAJOR)

50 Cent - I Get Money - LIVE AT THE HARDROCK

I am not really a fan of Fiddy's so I posting this for Hans & Gonzo who played this on radio last night during Last Ride... yeah the BOOM Champions thought it would be good to play the RAW version... thanks for not playing too much Hans... :D... you can also see Hans on Synergy TV hosting 'd Scene.

iPhone in Trinidad

I had the opportunity to use the iPhone courtesy AVitSupport.com

Nothing special in the video. only proof that I had it and it was working.

Jay-Z - American Gangster

JAY-Z Creates Original Material to be Released in Conjunction With Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment’s American Gangster

On November 6, Roc-A-Fella Records and JAY-Z will release the new album AMERICAN GANGSTER. Separate from the official motion picture soundtrack, this collection of all-new original material is a musical journey and lyrical interpretation of snapshots from the upcoming motion picture American Gangster, which pairs Oscar® winners Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Based on the true story of criminal mastermind Frank Lucas, who came up from the streets of New York in the ’70s, the film is produced by Academy Award®-winning producer Brian Grazer and directed and produced by Ridley Scott. It opens on November 2.

The conceptual, full body of work from the new album balances the line between pure entertainment and real life. JAY-Z draws upon past experiences, speaking to the harsh reality of the drug trade still taking place in our nation's cities. While not glorifying the Frank Lucas story, JAY-Z articulates the lure of a gangster's life and stands as an example of one who chose to leave those streets behind to go on and become one of the most successful entrepreneurs of our time.

Throughout AMERICAN GANGSTER, JAY-Z brings the audience into a world rich in familial relationships, hustling and the lasting effects of drugs on a community. Through its musical tone, the album complements the story as told in the major motion picture release.

No Breathalyser

Same nonsense I wrote about... pass all the bills you want, the President have to proclaim it....

No breathalyser: drivers getting away at roadblocks
Darryl Heeralal dheeralal@trinidadexpress.com

Sunday, September 9th 2007

FOUR drunk drivers were arrested and many more would have been held, Arrive Alive's Kirk Waithe said, if police could have used the breathalyser.

The four were held during late-night-into-early-morning roadblocks on Friday, a strategy the police have been using to curb road carnage, in St James and Aranjuez.

One man was arrested on the Western Main Road, St James, and three others on the Aranjuez intersection on the Churchill/Roosevelt Highway.

They all failed a sobriety test in which they had to walk a straight line and balance on one leg.

The roadblocks involved police and licensing officers with the support of Arrive Alive.

Waithe said from what he saw he was sure that at least 50 people were driving under the influence.

Police also found a loaded 9 mm pistol in some bushes off the highway.

The gun was thrown out of a car when the person realised there was a roadblock.

Several cars were impounded and drivers charged for driving without insurance.

Drivers also had to peel off tint that was too dark and exceeded the legal limit.

President George Maxwell Richards assented to the breathalyser legislation on July 26 but it still has to be proclaimed before it can become law.

Heineken Green Synergy 2007 South Regional Finals

and the winner is...

Selector D by 10+ points over second place and 30+ over third...

yeah well most of the people who say they was coming never showed up... and they missed out...

who was telling me that Selector D was mess and didn't even realise that DJ Kal had started his set... mmm... no name calling today, he know who he be... I guess some really see things differently and use different words in different ways...

apparently the fourth contestant had Passport problems. i thought with this whole Caricom Single Market you cudda travel with just a valid piece of ID. I probably misinformed or the person probably didn't have that either.

Aight, aight... things got started around 2100 an hour later than originally planned. I believe it was because of the poor turn-out.

Selector D was first up and showed me what I had been waiting weeks to see. He really has a trick that I haven't yet seen in the Caribbean. Lemme just say that the mixer ends up on the floor after he uses his belly and back to move the crossfader. The mixer isnt the only thing that is on the floor for the performance. He also does a Hula-Hoop with the mixer during his 10 minute set.

After his performance DJ Kal, representing St. Vincent, came on. The remark from someone I was having a conversation with was, "Wait nah the second man playing already?" ok ok I paraphrase buh da was d jist... his intro left much to be desired and was a lackluster performance. Sorry to say I didn't pay him much attention and I was gearing u for the final contestant from Grenada.

Slick, Dj Slick d man had argument, style, flair... he most definitely had what it took to come out on top but I guess after seeing Selector D the judges definitely had a task ahead of them. Slick even put on a mask and wooed the crowd with Road March tunes like Jumbie. He most definitely would have won if Selector D wasn't there... and the point total would have been closer if he and DJ Kal performed before Selector D.

DJ performances over it was time for the tally to begin and the LOCAL vocal talent to shine through...

King David and Prestan had a great 'message based' performance. Singing a few of his current hits King David really impressed me yet again with his delivery. Prestan is a great compliment to King David's style and they work well together.

Chromatics made plenty people think with some lyrics... "I'm your Puppet"... that's all I have to say...

Spotrushaz showed why they are Trinidad & Tobago's premiere Hip-Hop ensemble. sang a nice set. Had a nice piece of window dressing on the stage... performance suffered when Meet Sauce came on... I have the studio track and it sounds good but Sauce needs to work on performing LIVE and I hope that the voice he has is truly natural... cause if not he nah mek sense... it sounds copycat-ish...

Imij & Co. performed good. As usual nice tight set but I questioned some of the song selection though. I do hope though that if they gonna continue with Teri Lyons dance routine they ask her too get a pants that fits... I like seeing woman ass an ting but not like that... I was reminded of her sister Faye-Ann's performance @ Soca Monarch a couple of years ago... too much crack... it was the first time I have ever seen/heard them perform without Ghetto Flex as well. I missed him...

The Heineken part of the night then came to a close with the announcement of the results. Two were chosen to go to Jamaica for the Caribbean Finals. Yes they called DJ Slick name first but that didn't mean that he won. I saw the scores. Selector D had the nod from all of the judges, even getting a couple of perfect scores in certain categories from different judges.

sorry no pics again... I respecting Heinekin and WinTV rights...

Saturday Morning Sessions

and the nominees are...

I am currently working on a project for an award show that is slated to happen 2 weekends from now. I wasn't at work for about 3 weeks due to a previous engagement... All the while I was thinking that the show is at the end of September... HA! Low and behold when I went to work on Monday they telling me that its due earlier... much earlier... 2 weeks earlier... 10 days earlier than what was tentatively given... oh $hit I have it written on the friggin whiteboard... Y allyuh so...

I have to do it anyway so it didn't make sense fussin... but the best part is that everything still eh final yet... I guess that is acceptable here in our little Third World Republic. Well I don't accept it... I cant... I know that it wont be the last time I encounter this either... but lemme just inform those who like to stick... you wont get the BEST of ME...

I wont be giving you the MTV finish... but i guess it may still be better than IBN's or WIN TV's graphics... I using templates and making then work for me, well you really cant get anything else cause meh employer eh paying me for graphic work either... side note - he had an interview today for one... didn't sound/look positive... exhale...

Every year allyuh have this programme set proper deadlines nah... I saw the promo for MTVs Music Awards and damn yow it looks HOTT... and I sure you wanted something looking like that too... SORRY! I had to change the Font Type on a whole heap of Graphics today because they weren't fancy or curly enough. Well I did... A Typewriter FONT in yuh Ruckunks... you like the Rounded Edges... OK... cause If you want Script Fonts you could get that too. I would do it but I wont be held responsible when the show airs on television and people cant read the damn text. No one really watches that station anyway. I mean I only watch it for news and I've been told that its only because a certain News Anchor has Big Boobies... I never noticed... :D

So I guess I will go to work tomorrow and finish all that I have been given material for. Thats all I can do. The best part is that they want me to scour the World Wide Web aka the Internet for pictures of the individuals who are nominated. Jeez allyuh doh even know to ask the respective managers for a Press Kit and then send the pictures for me... wait wait wait... i forgot this is a Third World Nation now striving for First World Status... VISION 2020... I should utilize and embrace the power of the internet and use the 100x100 .gif that is 20 years old too... well lemme start looking for pics cause I don't think they will appreciate me using more text for their Award Show.

iTouch

... i get in trouble

How many different incarnations of the iPod will I see? Yet another set of Portable Media Players from Apple. Only this time we have a wider range of colours.

The newest iPod takes a page out of the iPhone and actually allows you to download your songs from iTunes or via WiFi right from the iPod itself. That's right no need for a cable. No need to actually be at home or logged onto a machine to access the whole heap of songs and videos available through the iTunes service.

Rembunction - A Quiet Evening (mixtape version)

DIPSOMANIA

Designate a Driver

Ghetto Child - Make It Hapn

thanks to Baidawi

A long time observation

Now ah doh know if anybody talk about it before or if is that because ah have 4 eyes ah seein more into things that actually there, but I've noticed something for a few years now.

Why is it that the extremely homophobic Jamaican male population are seriously into the homosexual style of dress and appearance?

Living in New York I see gay men everyday and when I see Jamaicans, especially in the music videos, why are they wearing the same kind of tight up pants, cosquel colours that don't match, all kinna funky patterns and style of cloth, then cover that up with a jacket and string two three dog chain from a pants loop.

This kinda style and fashion is seen on men in Greenwich Village a mecca for homosexuals in NYC and those involved in the fashion industry. (Now doh lemme get started on Lexxus aka Mr. Lex and his faux hawk that would get him many a glance and even a pips from some men.)

It is just so funny that they bash homosexuals so much yet dress just like them and profile to boot.
I am not gay and have no intentions of ever becoming so, but in my mind why are you imitating, looking like and definitely could be mistaken for someone you proport to hate?

So my conclusion is this, either you stop bashin them to that degree or disassociate yourself completely. Yuh cyah be straddling the fence.

Heineken Green Synergy - T&T 2007 - semis 02

DATE - 12th August 2007
VENUE - the EDGE @ Paria Suites
TIME - 1800hrs

well well well... i guess it can get better... lemme just say that MEMPHIS, who made the 'real' semis last year, came out looking for other competitors from last year... and thoroughly impressed.

the setup was nice and cozy... sorry no pics i forgot the cam home... Console on the table, a lipstick camera on the gypsum ceiling looking down onto it. We used the lipstick camera because a certain judge complained for the other semi that he couldn't see if the competitors we're cheating... I guess u can't see what u don't know u looking for... dooh!

the judges were closer this time and also on a height so they could see the console... yeah the lipstick cam was used for WOW factor alone... even though WINTV wanted a feed from it... sorry guys maybe next time you would walk with extra cables and batteries for your cameras... ;)... Jus Jase was also present this week and I couldn't help but laugh at the expression he sometimes made during performances... Carl, Alicia and Tweez were there too... no Carl I not entering...

The talent was better than the first semi... with returning contestants from last year's installment... so i guess some guys came better prepared... the line up was

1. Artical
   
2. Young Simo
   
3. Serato Tigger
   
4. DJ Asif (not to be mistaken for female DJ As-If)
   
5. Skelly
   
6. Memphis
   

it was also good to see guys from the first semi coming to see their competition... Selector D, Daddy Richie and DJ Sir. Sir had his hand in a cast which most definitely would put him at a disadvantage if he made it to the finals... but i don't think that gonna happen either... too many other good performances this week... and he was actually the DJ who set the bar by being the first contestant in this year's competition... hope the hand heals well SIR.

back to the competition...

Artical was aight... thats all I can say cause Memphis stole the show and I can't really remember what he did but i have to save the best for last... :D

Young Simo... said he came prepared but made a crucial error from the start... left all of his volume slides down... hit play... then looked at the tech support in awe... I informed him of his error and he fumbled again by asking the judges to start over... "Jus PLAY the TUNE" was the general response... Simo recovered well enough but really wasn't as ready as he said he was.

Serato Tigger hailing from Tobago where the crown currently resides... no he didnt play using Serato... we all expected it but this week nobody walked with a piece of extra equipment... only 2 CDs and a pair of headphones... anyhooo... Tigger spoke to the crowd and said he came to teach... but i think he need to go back to school... "Your Fader work need improvement son... you playing with a heavy hand so u lucky it wasn't a vinyl competition..." the ideas were there but not very well executed... another competitor remarked that what he was hearing wasn't scratching... so i waited for his performance to see better... Tigger finished his set with just under 2 minutes of his allotted 10 minutes remaining... it left alot of us bemused...

Asif .... the turntable assassin... alrighty... he apparently kills turntables for a living... Asif I still waiting to see/hear you scratch better than Tigger... that lil stabbup ting u do twice wasnt better that anything Tigger did... i think he actually got more points than you... alright i go take it easy... stick to killing turntables... and although you may have had that Linkin Park in your routine b4 u came to the EDGE... it sounded like u tried to steal it from Tigger... and guess what he executed it better... the routine was going good until u drastically change the tempo with the Super Cat session... maybe next time

time for a commercial break because this is when we all took a 10 minute break... felt more like half hour to forty-five minutes... ask WINTV why we had a break... at least the judges had time to Eat A Food...

Skelly travelled from Santa Cruz to represent and he did so quite well... nothing real special, nothing really stood out... but he was good... definitely had some decent mixes... the ending was even very novel... Call Me Anytime...

now to the big man of the evening... the man who used less than 7 minutes to do what he had to do... MEMPHIS...
stated from start that he came looking for DJs to battle but none showed up... TRUE... I guess they feel they too good for the competition... thats y... i eh going there... I will not spoil the tricks he did but only tell allyuh to watch WINTV to see it for yourselves... It was real VIBES... d man had the crowd going from start to finish... ok ok ... a lil snippet... can u say CRAB?.. and real nice looking too...

So, allyuh tune in to WINTV and catch the performances... and i hope that next time around i get my 5 seconds of fame on TV... I won't be reviewing the next Semi which should be @ the LYNX in Chaguanas neither the T&T Finals in Pier 1... I would definitely try to be there for the Regional Finals, world famous Zen... but A A...

till next time... KEEP PRACTICING...

Oh Yeah... FUNKMASTER K & CARBON... MEMPHIS wants to BATTLE... he say to Call him ANYTIME!!

Brick & Lace - Love is Wicked

The new single from the Jamaican female trio dou Nyanda and Nailah akaBrick & Lace

Gang War Medley

Elephant Man - Let's get PIRATED

After posting about reggaecounty.com i visited and found this interview that was done with Elephant Man. At the time of the interview 13 tracks off his upcoming album had not yet been leaked onto the internet. Also, they were not yet advised that the album launch/release had already been pushed back to November...

I was told this by a BadBoy after I commented on how weak the album tracks were. Guess who was surprised to learn that the tracks were leaked, considering he had only got the mastered versions a couple of hours before. I also learned that the delay had nothing to do with this leak but BadBoy's need to promote another one of their artists at this time.

So, the pirates strike again and Elephant gets a chance to actually have better tracks on the album this November.

High energy Elephant Man is shaking things up on his upcoming album entitled "Let's Get Physical". After a couple of false starts trying to reach the “energy god" I was able to amass a tiny peak of information on what to expect from Ele on his upcoming album.

“Suh how u do?” I began, "I'm sure your schedule is just as you like it--hectic and full of comings and goings?” I added, especially as I knew that he had missed his flight to NYC earlier that week.

“Yeah…You know it hectic, but we have to find time for you to deal wit’ it!” Ele responded---I didn’t need to be told twice that time was precious!
Born O'Neil Bryan—from the Seaview Gardens area in Kingston, Elephant Man, 34, aka “Energy god”, came onto the dancehall scene as a member of Scare Dem Crew. After leaving Scare Dem back in 1999 he signed a 3 album deal with Greensleeves from which we got Comin' 4 You --touted as one of the of the most consistent and pure dancehall albums at the time, followed by Log on and Higher Level. But the album most noteworthy to date is Good 2 Go (VP/Atlantic)—that made 2003 a breakthrough year for Ele with dancehall tracks such as Signal De Plane, Jook Gal and Pon de River for which he received a Source Award for Dancehall/Reggae Artist of the Year.

The new album, Let’s Get Physical, in stores August 14, 2007, a collaborative effort between VP and Bad Boy Records is according to Ele, “what the world has been waiting for…this is the many moods of Elephant now—when them hear this, them going to say—WOW--we never look for Elephant to come this way.”

The first single off the album “Five-O”, with Wyclef Jean featuring Diddy, a non energetic style song—but in its way still exuding Elephant’s energy--is a departure from the new-dance vibe that we have come to expect from this authentic dancehall dj. But, his approach was to come with something totally different—unpredictable.

“[Because of] the last album “Good to Go” everybody [is now] coming to expect me to do dancing, or girl- jump-around… [it] deh pon the album but me come different…because—you can’t get up and repeat y’self every minute...” Ele went on to mention that although there are up-tempo dancehall tracks on the album, he didn’t want it to be the first single. The album also features songs such as Jump, in collaboration with Swizz Beatz, Throw your hands up featuring Rihanna and our own Shaggy will be featured on the remix of The way we roll.

With a line-up of collaborations on the album that could almost suggest it’s a hip hop album--Busta Rhymes, Swizz Beatz, Yung Joc, Rihanna, Mya, among others I had to express a concern that perhaps the album may have too much of a hip hop feel…

“The riddim we put the hip hop artists on is dance hall—that’s the trick of it.” Ele explained, “Remember seh a dancehall we a represent u nuh—u see me! …[We] went into the studio—we did some exclusives, nuthin’ regular [that] you hear pon no radio … you can hear [the album] an’ know seh Elephant went into the studio an’ do some work!… We have the other artists like Mya and Rihanna them to give [the album] the flavor to carry it to the next level—u understand—yeah!” Nuff said!

Not to be outdone with the latest dances that is synonymous with dance hall riddims, Ele says that you can look to see new dances such as, Cut dem off, Tek weh u self, Three-step and Move. For those who are not into doing the latest dances, Ele also has, in addition to Five-O, a song called, Gangsta Rock that was written for all the original bad man types who only rock to music.
Aside from the energy that we have come to expect from dance hall djs such as Ele who set the tone for how we dance when we’re ready to party, is the unforgettable sense of style that dance hall brings; and for this, Ele has become a stand-out dance hall fashion icon. He prides himself with staying true to what epitomizes dance hall thanks to Shabba Ranks, whom he admires. With this in mind I asked Ele to give us some requirements for women and men to pull off the authentic dance hall look. Below Ele has given us the must-have basics.

Ladies…keep it nice and clean.

Nice hairstyle
Manicure and pedicure
A nice necklace
The ears must have the bling
Nice shoes
Designer dress

Men…to impress the ladies the must-haves are:

Nice pinky ring
Nice watch that stands out to represent the bling
Color--show some colors—very important in the dance hall scene…and you’re good to go.

There is no stopping Ele with this album. He promises it’s going to be his best album yet, not only is it a classic, it’s crazy, according to Ele. Look out for Elephant Man on Tour this coming September and for those who will be in Jamaica for Reggae Sumfest this month—when I asked Ele if he was going to be there, his response was, “Yeah Mon!”

Reggaecountry.com announces MP3 Pilot

Reggaecountry.com officially announced that it has commenced a pilot to offer thousands of reggae tracks and albums, both new and old, in the MP3 format through its digital store. Reggaecountry's DRM-free MP3 strategy will allow customers to play their music on virtually any of their personal media devices, including iPod™, Zunes™, Zens™, MP3 capable mobile phones and to burn songs to CDs for personal use.

"We are indeed excited to be able to offer this service to our site visitors through this effort. We look forward to offering our customers MP3s from amazing reggae artists such as like Sean Paul, Shaggy, Beenie Man, Vybz Kartel, Ce’cile, Bounty Killer among others,” commented Sean Anderson, President of Reggae Country Inc.

Along with the efforts to offer DRM-free music in the online store, the company will also offer the same through it’s mobile music partner Didiom. Through its partnership with Didiom, Reggaecountry.com is able to extend its reach to any Windows Mobile smartphones on any carrier network, allowing reggae music lovers to enjoy their music on the go.

Since its inception, Reggaecountry.com has gradually built a reputation of being a stellar source for reggae music, videos and valuing the feedback received from its citizens (site visitors). "This move is as a result of the overwhelming feedback that we have received from our site visitors,” said Christopher Rose, Vice President of Operations of Reggae Country Inc.

About ReggaeCountry™
Reggaecountry.com™, a reggae music digital download site, opened its virtual doors to online reggae enthusiasts in June 2005. It offers strictly reggae music and features the best selections from leading and emerging reggae artists and bands. The online catalogue has a plethora of music in every reggae sub-genre and music is added continuously.

Reggaecountry.com™ is licensed to provide thousands of reggae tracks and albums online for download.

*** I never liked the quality of the WMAs they provided. Let's hope that the encoding of the MP3s is better.