Well, last night was my
second go at Panorama prelims, as I
played with Express 21. My involvement
with this band was a sobering experience
on many levels. First and foremost, I
experienced first hand the affects
conditions in Laventille had on the
band, and how some bands really have an
uphill battle during Panorama. Last
week's panyard shooting (which happened
not too far from Express 21) left many
of the band's players afraid to attend
rehearsals. The arranger was left with
mere days to find enough players to
qualify, finish the tune, teach it to
us, and try to get the group ready to
compete. While some bands have pretty
developed panyards, this band was
cramped under tents in front of a house
on a busy street, and with plenty of
things to distract them. It was clear
the band was fighting through a lot to
get the job done. Despite all that that
had going against them, the came
together and really pushed to get the
job done. Regular players stepped up to
drill the band on the Avenue yesterday
when the arranger had to leave the band
to deal with things. Though it was a
stressful process, and many of us were
frustrated before we played, when it
came time to take the stage the band
came together and enjoyed themselves.
Though we may not have given a perfect
performance, the band came out and as
much energy as we could. Knowing what
the band went through, I couldn't help
but be troubled about the crackshots
that wanted to take the tune on the road
yesterday, though they may not have
intended any disrespect.
I haven't had any new
Trini food to speak of, but I have tried
two new Roti places. Patraj in Woodbrook
was good, Sherry's on 5th Street in San
Juan was better. I went to Sherry's
twice, the first time I had goat, which
had a couple small pieces of bone, but
was otherwise the best Roti I've had
thus far. The second time I had chicken,
which I quickly realized they don't
offer a boneless option. I'm not sure I
understand the idea of putting chicken
wings in a sandwhich... In anycase,
Sherry's is so far the reigning
champion, but I'm told Sylvia's (also in
San Juan) is the best Roti around. The
battle for the best Roti continues, and
I'm loving every minute!
As we get closer to
Panorama, I'm getting busier and busier,
and as I run out of time I will be
trying to get out and experience as much
as possible. I may not be updating as
regularly as I used to, but I'll do my
best! Until next time