BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – MANAGER of the Nu Vybes Band, David ‘Junie’ Adams said news of the passing of one of the founding members of the band, Analdo ‘Al’ Williams, came as a surprise and shock.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Al. The news came as a shock and surprise to us especially to Mention who was really close to him,” he said.

Lead vocalist of the band, Gregory Mr. ‘Mention’ Hobson said that outside of the music ties, Williams was like a brother to him.

Hobson said that he is deeply saddened by Williams’ passing and surprised because he was one who appeared to always be in good health.

“I received a call on Saturday saying that Al had collapsed and that he wasn’t doing too well. “It’s going to be hard, as he also leaves kids behind who now have to grow up without a father and also his wife,” he said.

Hobson said it was Williams who had introduced him to the band in 1989.
Williams, who resided in Atlanta, died in the wee hours of Sunday, August 16, and unconfirmed reports suggest that he may have suffered a stroke.
 
He was married, fathered three sons and was described as a very friendly, ambitious man who would be remembered for his laughter and jokes.

He was last employed at TDC before migrating to Atlanta.

Williams was drummer and lead vocalist when the band was formed in 1987 and was instrumental in the then hit ‘Sexy Julie’ on the ‘Seducer’ album.

Meanwhile, the band recently returned from performing in St. Thomas, St. Croix and Tortola, where, according to Adams, the events were successful as they got good reception.

They also have some gigs coming up in September when they will be performing in St. Thomas and St. Croix.

As far as an album is concerned, the manager said that the fans could expect the same high quality that the band is known to produce.

“We have brought out three albums since Steve has left - one with Eddy and the other with Ras Kelly - and we were still able to maintain the normal Nu Vybes high standard.

“I think that Mention is really responsible for the Nu Vybes sound. He is the producer and co-arranger of the band’s album and still manages every year to maintain that sound,” he said.

The band now comprises of lead vocalist and leader Hobson, Leroy ‘Rush’ Thompson (vocals), Lerone Mcintosh (bass), Darren ‘Miller’ Thomas (lead keyboards, programmer), Paul Queeley (guitar), Errol Richards (drums) and  Javits ‘Stadics’ Jefferson (keyboards).