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Hikers Hockey Team Reintroduced Into the Night

Supporters Having Fun

Duke Lodge came alive on Saturday night when the Hikers Hockey Team reintroduced their phenomenal party, Into The Night. It was a themed based event that featured past times and music of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. The atmosphere was quite a sight! There were afros, knee length socks, dhashiki shirts and flower printed baby doll dresses that complemented the well lit, acoustically correct location. The Guyanalive.com team was there and we soaked up every bit of fun and excitement that the show offered. Now we will say that we were a tad bit nervous for the Hikers Hockey Team when we heard that they were taking this risk. But those nerves quickly vanished when we saw people of all ages jamming to the vibes that played non – stop (even though the DJ had some trouble mixing the music smoothly).

We haven’t had that much fun since the Machel Montano Show, and that is quite a statement because it is Machel we are comparing them to after all. Nevertheless, the event (sponsored largely by DDL’s El Dorado Brand) was a seeming success. The crowd turnout could have been better by our standards but who says you can’t have fun in small groups? Pictures never lie (unless they are photoshopped) and you can most certainly see out truthful pictures at www.guyanalive.com.

On the Guyanalive.com scale we give it a comfortable 8 out of a possible 10 and we urge everyone, yes everyone, to come out the next time. Even if you don’t know the music the atmosphere will certainly entice you to have a blast.

By – Patrice Wishart

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Miss Guyana World 2011 Swimsuit Competition

Miss Guyana World Delegates

Let it be said that we at Guyanalive.com are all for local talent and entertainment, but making us wait for over an hour to access that talent and entertainment is just plain wrong. That’s right, we had to wait for quite some time to see a very short swimsuit competition at the Pegasus Hotel, Poolside on Friday last. First of all, the seating arrangements were most ad hoc. Very few persons were aware that the seats cost more as they got closer to the stage. As a result, we were impolitely asked to remove from our original seats because they were reserved (even though there was no sign), and we were forced to sit at the back with the rest of the media. Even though we were insulted we decided to not let it bother us because we knew that a bevy of beauties were to be showcased very shortly. While we waited in vain the Majestic Band decided to beautifully serenade the audience with oldies and reggae hits and let us be the first to admit that we were impressed.

The music was crisp and soothing and they have excellent command of the stage. After their segment someone who we thought was the MC said that the coordinators apologized for the very late start but the show will begin now. Huh? So the Majestic Band was not a part of the show? Well if they weren’t then the coordinators flawed in a major way. The official start of the show opened up with a group called the Belza Family. A mixture of what we thought was hip hop and dancehall (though we could be absolutely incorrect) was delivered in an unprofessional and lax way. However, just as were on the brink of boredom we were zapped back to life by a pretty young lady named Livia Prescott who tantalized us with some local soca tracks that she produced while living in the United States (go figure). It was after Ms. Prescott that we at Guyanalive.com assumed the show had properly begun because Don Gialliani was next on stage. Those of us who know this young artistic individual know what he is capable of. Hot lyrics on nice beats that made you either bob your head or move your shoulders. Even the reigning Miss Guyana Universe, Kara Lord (who looked simply stunning might we add), was seen shaking to the grooves. We think the Don saw this too and decided to serenade her acapella style. The crowd went wild and we are positive that there were a few jealous ladies at that moment. After Don Gialiani’s piece we were amazed by the melodious voice of First Born member Rolston Richmond who spared no boundary in producing some of the best music we have heard all night.

Then ladies and gentlemen, the moment we have waited (and waited, and waited) for, the six gorgeous delegates were introduced on stage by the real MC’s. The women were all draped in matching outfits and even did a choreographed dance while their profiles were being read out. We think it is safe to say that it was worth the wait. We couldn’t take our eyes off of them. Beauty after beauty, bursting with zest, confidence and simple radiance. And then the show was over. We kid you not folks; after the ladies modeled individually the MC’s thanked us all for coming and enduring the supernaturally lengthy wait. It was unclear who won that segment since the noise was unbearable. The judges, who entered a few minutes after they were introduced in a most rude way, had to take extra time (with good reason) to decide who the winner was. However, we will at least tell you the names of the six delegates; Ms. Arti Cameron, Ms. Ruquayyah Boyer, Ms. Soyini Fraser, Ms. Seistra Allen, Ms. Utieka John, Ms. Shanessa James and Ms. Celeste Dolphin. Come July 31, Guyana will know who will exuberantly represent us at the international level. Until then, the Miss Guyana World Swimsuit Competition gets a 5 out of a possible 10 on the Guyanalive.com scale.

By Patrice Wishart

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Machel Sell Awwf!

Machel Montano and HD Band at Advantage Concert

When you woke today and saw all the media avenues talking about the Machel Montano Show last night at the National Stadium and you realized that you were not there, and you started feeling bad, it served you right! It was absolutely the most fun the Guyanalive.com team has had in a while. Hands down!

The atmosphere was fantastic, with lights and stage settings that would make your jaw drop. There were bars and food stalls at every convenient location. Even the portable toilets were strategically placed! After taking in the ambience and being hyped by the juggliang skills of the Fusion Sound Company, the night’s first entertainer was Spiderman. Even though the crowd did not seem to be completely feeling his vibe he held his own. Then we were pleasantly surprised when we knew that Militant was our next performer. The guy that brought us songs like “Passion” took us down memory lane and paved the way nicely for the next big local artiste. Jory, with his clever play on words and great ability to ride on any rhythm, made us laugh, shout and scream to all of his hits. Even an old controversial favorite rocked the crowd without pause. After Jory’s amped performance Fusion continued to wow us with their smooth track selections while we waited with glee for the King of Soca and his entourage.

Gyrating Crowd

Then, as if we could have prepared for it anyway, Machel Montano was on stage blowing us away with just his mere presence. It was an extremely wonderful collage of soca hits, calypso tunes, classics and hot new road marches. He definitely proved to the lucky citizens of this country that he is indeed the King of Soca (sorry Rupee). The HD Band did not miss a beat as they backed up Mr. Montano, nor any of the other performers for that matter. Farmer Nappy was on next to continue the soca fete with hits like “belly dancer” that had the ladies “screwing the bulb” all night. Then Patrice Roberts ensured that our waists were completely gyrating when she tore the place down with her sexy voice and sultry moves. Some men could not keep their eyes glued from the stage. Zan, though his act was short and sweet, made sure that there was never a dull moment in last night’s festivities. Let us also say, in no uncertain terms, that the HD Dancers were fabulous! They did not even seem tired even though they danced non-stop for hours with choreographed and spontaneous sessions.

Patrice Roberts performing at Advantage Concert

The beautiful Patrice Roberts and a dancer named Whitney showed us time and time again how to shake a backside, move a waist and tremble thighs like it was a dance class for beginners. They were exceptional!

However, they cliché that reads “nothing good lasts forever” was unfortunately proven again. There were audio problems that endured for what seemed like an eternity. We at Guyanalive.com understand that these things happen and sometimes they are uncontrollable, but that did not help when the crowd became frustrated and started to depart in small increments. Eventually, the sound was restored but at a mediocre level and it was too late. Patrons were using profanity to describe their disgust while they walked to exits. After quite some time the sound was properly restored and the jams resumed like there was never a problem to begin with. Machel and his crew did a job well done and made it seem effortless. If that isn’t entertainment then we don’t know what is. Thank you H&J for making our nights, and our weekends. We socanites cannot wait for the next concert!

By Patrice Wishart

 

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No More Excuses, They are Here

Yes soca fans, you heard it exclusively from Guyanalive.com that Machel Montano and the HD Band are in Guyana to rock your world come Saturday June 18, 2011 at the National Stadium. Guyanalive.com was there at the VIP Lounge of the Timehri International Airport when the Soca King and his posse entered. They were pumped and ready to please the thousands of fans that would fill the stadium with their tantalizing melodies and eye opening performances. Every band member (Machel Montano, Patrice Roberts, Farmer Nappy and Zen) promises a stellar show and said that they would be very appreciative for a large turn – out.

The media flocked the group and bombarded them with questions about their past and future performances, their plans and ambitions and even their take on fathers of the world, but Guyanalive.com was particularly impressed when the band spoke of their determination to succeed, their drive to entertain not just the Caribbean, but the world, their quest to not be categorized and their spiritual and humble beliefs that get them through each day. After a few photo ops we allowed them to hop on their bus and get to their hotel because we all know that they have a lot of work to do on Saturday night.

Additionally, Guyanalive.com also managed to grab a few words with the reigning Ms. Guyana Jamzone, Jovan Wilson, who said that she is simply enjoying being queen. Her ultimate passion is to be actively involved in local tourism and she is working towards that but she is currently preparing for another pageant in Antigua, and then to return Guyana to compete for the Ms. Jamzone International Crown. We at Guyanalive.com wish her nothing but the best.

Unfortunately, there are two issues that we at Guyanalive.com have to stress on. First, please remember to put your mobile phones on vibrate when you are in a press conference. It is very distracting to everyone to hear a phone ring during such an event. Second, it was very unprofessional of the H&J Team to promise media personnel refreshments and not follow through on their promise. Not only did we have to endure that, but we were told last minute to make alternative travel arrangements to return to the capital city (at their expense of course). Bottom line? Treat your media colleagues better in the future.
Oh, before we forget, all you socanites can follow Machel Montano on Twitter @machemontanohd

By Patrice Wishart

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Shasha Designs presents Fierce Expressions: Untamed

If you were bored last Sunday evening then you should have attended a splendid fashion show at the Tower Hotel by Shasha Designs called “Fierce Expressions: Untamed”. It was a mixture of subtle, colourful pieces and sexy, dark and raunchy articles. MC’d by DJ Casual of 98.1 FM, the show was divided into two short but very attractive segments of wonderful fashion display. Female entertainer “Bliss” opened the first segment with some musical renditions that could have been more musical, but she minus the slight wardrobe malfunction she was very easy on the eyes. She led us into a few models who exhibited well cut and bright dresses, skirts, suits and shirts done by Keisha Edwards, CEO of Shasha Designs. After about 10 models did their thing on the catwalk we were entertained by another local performer called “RACS”. He is a smooth rapper who critics say did a much better job than the previous on – stage performer. After his clever spin on Wiz Khalifa’s “Black and Yellow” we entered a 25 minute break and bobbed our heads to great tracks by the event’s DJ.

During that time the El Dorado bar was well stocked with various vodkas and rums that certainly helped to make the ambience more enjoyable. Speaking of which, the decor for this event was appropriate but sparsely decorated. There were a few pieces of cloth draped strategically around the room but critics say that there should have been a backdrop of the show’s name to compliment the El Dorado banners and eccentric ceiling fans.

Enter segment number 2. RACS reappeared and wowed the ladies with a club hopping number which is still lingering in my head. Then! The hairs on the back of my neck stood on end as I watched model after model creatively draped in black leather, lace, and leopard prints and shiny accessories strut across the catwalk. I heard loud cheers and applauses time and time again; I saw cameras of all types flashing their little lights and each lady showed off the absolutely gorgeous outfit that she was blessed with. I can safely say that it seemed as if no one wanted this segment to end but it unfortunately did, and with that the gossip started.

From that gossip we at Guyanalive.com want to share our opinions. Firstly, we believe that a fashion show is an ample opportunity for everyone to wear their style with n qualms. However, if you are going to wear a t – shirt please run the iron over it properly. Personally this writer believes that a t – shirt is in appropriate but DJ Casual wore one under his unique jacket and pulled it off smoothly. Secondly, why was the show so short? There is no dispute that the fashion was top – of – the – line (and at the end of the day that is what matters) but $2,000 for two hours seems a little unfair. Maybe the designer should have thrown a few of her old pieces to continue wowing us or maybe there could have been another entertainer doing a different genre of music, or do an after party of meeting and greeting. Whatever the alternative, please take note for the future. Ultimately, on the Guyanalive.com scale of 1 to 10 (10 being the highest) we rate Fierce Expressions: Untamed at a 7. We know there is much more talent to be showcased by this duo corporation so we will put Sunday’s show in the win column and anticipate something bigger and better in the near future.

By Patrice Wishart

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The Guyanese Dream Part 1: SHASHA

During my spare time I decided to do something uplifting and inspirational. More so, I was given the idea by observing American media coverage of the first Afro – American president and them saying that he is the “American Dream”. So it dawned upon me, why not coin a local piece of that encouraging concept for the readers of the GuyanaLive.com blog? Eventually I pondered some more and determined that my first article will be on one of my friends who I happen to admire for all the hard work that she has done and is currently doing, therefore I present to you, Ms. Keisha Edwards and SHASHA.

Now before I venture into explaining the wonders and works of SHASHA grant me the privilege of enlightening you a bit about Ms. Edwards. Born on September 8, Keisha Tonicia Edwards is one of eight siblings (having just one brother) to a Civil Engineer and a Seamstress/Homemaker. Both her parents are still alive and are happily married. She attended St. Joseph’s High School and made good grades which were exemplified at her CXC examinations, where she obtained seven passes with one distinction in English Language. After successfully finishing secondary school she had her hopes set on completing the Bachelor’s Degree of Law at the University of Guyana, since she thought this was a good avenue being the captain of her alma mater’s debate team and things of that sort. She however pursued a Diploma in Social Work and after graduating made some life changes. Despite her ability to weld metals or make concrete blocks she turned to fashion, more specifically, fashion designing.

She started with small personal projects where she made outfits solely for her partying rendezvous and other outings. At this point you would imagine that she received rave reviews about her attire and countless words of encouragement to make it a professional activity and subsequent to dire contemplation, due to other pressing objectives in her life she decided to take on the task at hand. When I sat to have a chat with Ms. Edwards my very first question on this topic was “why fashion?” and her response was, ”My mother is a seamstress and I have an eternal love for clothes and colors. I like to wear what I want and it feels great to wear what you make because only you can know what you feel good wearing.” Her fashion concept is a fusion of modern rock, traditional wear and Caribbean flavour. She adores sexy and eye popping pieces but also knows how to create conservative and formal bits. Keisha describes her fashion concept as timeless with no boundaries and says that every piece is done from heart, soul and her passion because that is the way she thinks life is best lived. This Sociology student says her pieces are a direct illustration of her personality, moods and many emotions. This very professional fashion designer and entrepreneur never ever mix business with pleasure and prefer to meet every client and converse with them so as to get some insight about their personality and their different choices of style and comfort. This allows her to make exceptional pieces that each individual client is pleased to wear time and time again. As far as unique style extends the name SHASHA is derived from a combination of parts of two names. The last three letters of Keisha and the same of her close friend’s Aleysha Persaud. Aleysha’s presence is paramount because Ms. Edwards divulged that her close friend assist her in more ways than one. For instance, I had a grand opportunity to witness a photo shoot, compliments of Stabroek News, showcasing the designer’s Mashramani collection labeled “Jamrock”. This compilation comprises of a provocative and colorful taste which steals the shades of the sunset, flora and of the nation’s flag and gives it an exclusive edge.

When asked about her campaigns for the future she said that plans to chase this fashion venture relentlessly but if, God forbids, it somehow flops she still wants to give law a fervent try or anything else that sways her way. Still as simple as the sky, this fashion enthusiast’s idea of a perfect day is just spending time with family over a good meal and intriguing conversation. She, like most focused people, hates lies and rumors and persons who waste good opportunities and precious time but is madly in love with her family and friends and that special guy who is very supportive of her endeavors. Reading and being loyal are also effects that are held dearly and, as comical as this sounds, “hates chowmein and corned beef with a passion.” Is marriage and kids in the near future? ‘Most certainly’ is her position but not anytime too soon due to her many obligations. This young lady’s advice to anyone who wants to make something of themselves from nothing is, “don’t let anyone tell you [you] can’t do it!”

After reading this little article about Ms. Keisha Edwards and SHASHA Designs, you may still be wondering why she was handpicked for the Guyanese Dream editorial, well she is the textbook definition of persistence and poise that was made from the ashes of a fast teenage life and a slightly confused young adulthood. However, when (and I say when because she is that good at what she does) you need to contact this young fashion designer about anything work related please do so at [email protected].

By Patrice Wishart

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H&J’s “Live Your Life Party”

Let me start by saying that we at Guyanalive.com applaud Hits and Jams for their successful and entertaining promotions, but I figure that last night they lost sight of their principles and just focused on making money. I am referring to their highly anticipated “Live Your Life Party”. Allow me to commend them on the gate prices; ladies free before 11 and after that they pay $1000, men pay $1000 all night. Exceptional! They took our economic status to heart and we are forever grateful, but if that means depriving us of proper audio entertainment, then we prefer to pay more.

Fusion’s Sound System was responsible for the musical delight and they failed miserably. I saw people yawning! The young lady I was with was reluctant to dance for 70% of the evening because every time she got into the mood the disc jockey (DJ) changed the music drastically. Now I’m no professional DJ but I am an avid party attendee so I am well within my rights to say it sucked! It was just better to stand and listen as if u were wearing a pair of headphones. Additionally, I could not understand half of what the DJ was saying and I was standing adjacent to the one, very small, bar. I won’t mention the bar much because I prefer to drink Guinness and that wasn’t available so I hardly approached that area. I do know however, that it was small and caused frustration among customers and potential customers, because some persons eventually walked away due to impatience.

I will say though that it was well attended, similar to any H&J event. Persons were well decked out in their finest to endure meager musical skills and a petite bar. Frivolous these things may seem but apposite standards are important or should be in whatever we do. I assume that the concept of that party was to hearten everyone to enjoy themselves despite whatever point (s) they may be at in their lives. I know for a fact that music (properly orchestrated and distributed) helps tremendously with comforting patrons, but I further assume that persons had to have a few drinks to their brains first, or were jus famished for entertainment to thoroughly enjoy last night’s goings-on. I sincerely appeal to the persons in charge of these proceedings to stay alert and maintain high standards, suffice to say we are all humans and we are expected to fall behind sporadically so pay attention to beneficial criticism.

By Patrice Wishart

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Banks Super Concert

On August 23rd 2008 Banks DIH held a Super Concert at the National Stadium as part of the CARIFESTA X celebrations. Crowds poured in from all parts of Guyana and other parts of the Caribbean to witness performances by local and world famous artistes.

Our very own Illaman started the live performances with some of his upcoming hits. Then one of Brutal Tracks’ greater performers, Alabama, stunned the audience with his well appreciated song “Dem don’t care” and others that the persons in attendance weren’t so familiar with. The crowd then rocked to the sweet sounds of World Famous First Born with their tracks such as “Irits”, “Got we own style”, and “How are we going to survive”, just to name a few. After enjoying a few minutes of First Born’s talent the multitude was then laughing to the comical lyrics of Dave Martin and the Trade Winds. After more than thirty minutes of amusing entertainment the highly anticipated soca singer from Barbados, Biggie Irie came on stage to get the crowd moving their waists. Biggie Irie is best known for his smash single “We nah goin home” and he thrilled the masses with his voice and musical antics. He also gave tribute to fellow Barbadian Peter Ram and Jamaican Taurus Riley for their influence on the music industry by singing their current hits. Eventually, Barbadian super star Rupee, teased the mob with excerpts from his hits before making his way to the stage in front of thousands of screaming fans. Rupee enticed persons in attendance with a great list of songs that filled the air with peace, love, harmony and fun. The ladies were going crazy at several intervals and some even managed to get on stage despite attempts by security to control them. The soca super start however soaked up every minute of it and encouraged fans to be safe and enjoy life to its fullest. After a short intermission the level of excitement peaked as the MC announced the next artiste, Mr. Vegas. The noises from the crowds were so loud those at the back could hardly hear Mr. Vegas voice as he performed songs like “Daggerin” and “Hot wuk”. He even got the fans involved by having a small dancing competition on stage between a few ladies. The masses gave their approvals as the ladies showed what they have and Mr. Vegas was enjoying every moment of it.

The event came to halt around 3:00am and as fans left they expressed their views on the evening’s activities. The number of persons in attendance was estimated at 10,000 but some sources say much more. Rupee had visited Guyana before and was asked to return soon to entertain us again. Biggie Irie made his first appearance here but Mr. Vegas has graced us with his presence once before. Rumors have it that the Banks Super Concert is the biggest and best of all for the CARIFESTA X period.

By Patrice Wishart