New York's Sesame Flyers International, Inc. held a concert billed as a Steelpan Extravaganza on Saturday June 5, 2004.  If you were not there, you missed a good one!  The show featured the composing, arranging and playing skills of young talents such as Freddy Harris and Andy Akiho, among others.  Remember these names - you're going to be hearing them a lot the in the near future.   Indeed, this event showcased the next generation of pan composers, players and arrangers.  And the future of pan is in good hands.

We were particular impressed with the enthusiasm and musical output these young musicians brought to the table.  While anchored in tradition mastery, they dared to go into new and uncharted territory.  They moved skillfully through pop, blues, jazz, funk, reggae and world music - as each act showcased it's mastery of a specific genre of music.   From James Brown to Wayne Shorter's "Footprints", to Destra's "Bonnie & Clyde" (aka "Let's Celebrate") -- no matter what your taste, there was something there for you.

And last but by no means least - great original music scores performed by Steel Sensation, Joubala, Jambalasi, and Sesame Flyer Steel Orchestra all rocked the house... Wicked!!!  Big up to Sesame Flyers International, Inc. - Great Show!!

Luckily - the Basement Recordings crew was on hand to capture the performances, to be released on DVD by Sesame Flyers International in the near future.  Until then... click on the links below to hear samples of what you missed!