First Post - 2015 - Band Launch - Island Gems - Ancestors of the Caribbean

Friday, June 26, 2015 clivia 0 Comments

Its Full blast band launch season and this is my first post! Yeah I'm slacking. I need an intern...
but on to the post..

Today's Review is Island Gems Band Launch

Island Gems is not new to the Miami Market. Its Fronted by a husband and wife duo Lesel and Peter who graciously invited me to their launch.

This group has grown exponentially over the past few years starting of as section producers and finally establishing their own band.

Their launch was at a venue that was new to me -.Studio 504.  I arrived on Island time to be met by the Soca Ranch Truck outside [thank god Shrimp Burgers] and fairly quiet parking lot However as we went inside the venue cleverly camouflaged the size of the venue and its set up. A large dance floor and stage at the end of a hallway - intersected by the bar and small waiting /admission area. Quite Nice - except it was a little hot when the room filled up. Maybe it was a ploy to sell more drinks - I think it worked.

Any way.. on to the costumes. Designed by Mas Brothers - an already established entity in Miami Carnival - known for their traditional designs, attention to detail and clean execution.

Their presentation is Ancestors of the Caribbean  and they are an all inclusive premium band.

there is is still one section that has not been revealed that is being designed by local Doshynko.

What I especially love about this band, is that in an era of nakedness, and barely there, of bling and feathers - this band caters to all sizes, shapes, all levels of maturity, all levels of reveal. The designs really encourage all ages and sizes to come play mas. There is an option for every body type. Its an amazing spirit of inclusiveness.

I must also say that from the minute you entered the event there was a feeling of family and togetherness from the staff. From the DJ's to the Hype man to the costume assistants to the committee members. Everyone - This felt like an old school family band and I hope it continues to translate that way to their masqueraders.

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Just In Case - I See You.

Tuesday, June 23, 2015 clivia 0 Comments

To the mas makers...

The old timers and the new.

To those who have to decide if they will pay their bills late this month versus ordering that braid that you MUST have for the backline costumes...

To the moms who have to do the day job and  THEN go home and make dinner and THEN do homework, and put the kids to bed and then go do social media, and work on the website, and check on the orders, and cover the wire for the headpieces. And wake up and do it all again the next day....

For the people in relationships who want to go to that movie, or that party, or to dinner but those back packs not gonna make themselves....

For those living on cafecitos and Red Bull at work..who have to master the art of multitask...cause you can't mess up the nine to five although the rest of the hours are your passion...

To the promoters - who want to see their vision come to fruition....in spite of the risks to themselves and their well being..and strained friendships..

To those who do this every year, barely making a profit, NEVER making a profit....

If no one ever says this to you...

I acknowledge this personal sacrifice for your culture. I know this is more than profit, than fame or acknowledgement...

You are not invisible. Your efforts and energies are appreciated. I See you!

Thank you.

BrownGirlInTheRing


and just like that. Im Back...Late..but Im back!  


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