BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THOUSANDS of revellers were in attendance as a new twist to the songs being played for the Road March title took place yesterday (Jan. 1) during the 2010-2011 National Carnival Parade Day that paraded through the streets of Basseterre.
Bedecked in rainbow colours and demonstrating energy, versality, creativity, innovation and an appetite for fun and excitement, young and old revellers (including toddlers) moved to the rhythm of several songs that are in contention for the Road March title.
Unlike that of J’Ouvert Morning when it was said that King Konris’ ‘Unstoppable Force’ ruled the roost, it was the Small Axe Band’s ‘Rum Song’ that stole the show, as many revellers and onlookers were unable to resist the melodious song that was an instant hit on its release.
Also sharing in the excitement was the Nu Vybes Band with ‘Road March out of Style’. Some individuals noted that the band’s members should be commended for what was nothing short of a perfect and electrifying performance that had whipped many people into frenzy.
The ‘Rum Song’, according to many, should be a strong contender for the title. And if the public’s views, opinions and reaction to the song are to be taken into consideration, then Small Axe would have easily won the title.
The police, in full force and supported by members of the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, were there to ensure that law and order were maintained during the day’s activity. One officer was seen making an arrest of a young man during the bands’ procession at the Circus, and despite the young man’s evident resistance the officer should be commended for his control of the situation and ability to curtail any violent actions from the seemingly intoxicated youth.
Speaking to several persons, it was noticed that a number of nationals had returned home to join in the celebrations, while a number of tourists expressed their satisfaction and enjoyment. A young lady named Marlene, who was visiting from Miami upon invitation of friends, said it was one of the best carnivals she has seen in the region, noting that she had visited two other country’s carnival.
“I am definitely enjoying St. Kitts and Nevis Carnival, and I think that the people of this country should be commended for executing such a great carnival,” she added.
A man, who opted not to give his name, said he is a national but lives in the UK and comes home every carnival with his family. He declared that he had never enjoyed carnival as much as he did this year. He extended congratulations to the Chairman of the National Carnival Committee and the Minister responsible for the event, noting that their creative minds and organisational skills have ensured he truly enjoyed this year’s Carnival.
“I am really enjoying it and I think the Carnival Chairman and Minister should be highly commended…they are doing a great job.”
Many others expressed similar sentiments with the songs and claimed that the ‘Rum Song’ would go down as one of the best and should be adjudged the Road March song.
Some individuals also felt that yesterday’s performance of the Nu Vybes Band and that of King Konris on J’Ouvert Morning are the top contenders for the title. The winner, they said, would be determined by the judges tomorrow at Las Lap, the activity that would bring the curtains down on the 2010/2011 National Carnival.
Minister with responsibility for Culture, Marcella Liburd also participated in day’s activity. She was dressed in a white outfit, draped with the country’s national flag. She was surrounded by a number of others, who were similarly attired, jamming to the tunes that were being belted out.
A number of children were also seen having a great time and some spectators had joined the revellers from various points along the route, while masquerader troupes, clowns and the Mansion Bull led the parade with their creative dance moves.
Although judging of the day’s activity had concluded, celebrations continued way into the night.
