Jamaican music in good hands - Jamaica Jazz and Blues Talent Stage unearths good performances
Published:Sunday | January 29, 2012 | 12:00 AM
Nagra Plunkett, Assignment Coordinator
WESTERN BUREAU:
It was a fusion of the past, present and the future, as the 16th staging of the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival unfolded at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium on Thursday night.
While the veterans and accomplished artistes took the main stage to perform during the premiere of the three-day music festival; aspiring stars working to carve out a niche for themselves in the entertainment landscape, were brilliantly on display on the Talent Stage.
Situated in the heart of the food court, which had a diverse offering of gastronomy, and created an intimate setting for dining and interaction, the small stage came alive with six acts. Their sets were interspersed during the intermissions on the main stage, where emcees Barrington 'Barry G' Gordon and Jackie Norman marshalled the activities.
With the exception of two acts, the small stage performers were unearthed during the Jamaica Jazz and Blues Talent Stage auditions held in major towns across the island. They are Miguel Antonio, City on Fire, Stone Duv and Jahmilla.
Top cabaret performer
The 'youngsters'were buoyed by spirited performances from Montego Bay-based singer Mackie Conscious and vocal trio Ebony. The latter, who has earned the reputation of a sought-after top cabaret performer, brought down the curtain on the Talent Stage.
Ebony was preceded by Jahmilla, a singer whose eclectic style mirrored that of a young Etana. Her set also featured the One Drop Band.
Mackie Conscious, christened Dennis McKay, worked the stage expertly as he performed his original tune Lucky Me Nuh Lucky, and a cover of Jacob Miller's Disciplined Child.
The bands, City On Fire and Stone Love, gave creditable performances and so did singer, Miguel Antonio. Miguel stole the spotlight with his rendition of Can You Feel The Love Tonight, and he was not coy as he caressed the tune with his vocals and took the patrons on a musical journey.
Judging the quality of the talent stage acts; The Sunday Gleaner can safely say that the future of Jamaica's rich musical heritage is in capable hands.