band
achieved over its nearest rival, Exodus.
The reports to date reveal the following in terms of tune of choice.
1. This one for U, Bradley
It is right that we look at this selection first as the defending
Panorama champion band of 2005, Phase II Pan Groove, will be playing
this selection.
A late composition by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe with lyrics
by prolific composer Anthony “Lexo” Alexis and vocals
by Ronnie McIntosh, it has nevertheless attracted six North bands
that have had a preview of the tune.
Obviously it will be played by Phase II Pan Groove, but interestingly
young arranger, Arddin Herbert has laid down the gauntlet and intends
to challenge Boogsie with his own composition in the large band
category.
Arddin will arrange for Invaders.
2. Colours Again
At time of going to press this was the most selected tune for Panorama
2006. Some 13 bands have indicated their preference for this tune.
A composition of Mark Loquan, with lyrics by Keron Boodoosingh and
Joel “Zan” Feveck, it features a quality vocalisation
by Destra Garcia.
This production by Junior “Ibo” Joseph has a party flavoured
feel and has caught the fancy of the majority of bands.
The top bands that will play this tune include Skiffle Bunch from
the South and Sound Specialists from the North.
3. Sir Clive Bradley
The Original Defosto Himself, Winston Scarborough must be commended
not only for his composing skills but also for his foresight in
choosing the right theme for the occasion.
Having already composed three tunes which could be considered tunes
for the pan, he immediately saw the need for a tribute song when
Clive passed away.
The result was that he impressed enough bands to be the second highest
choice of the pan arrangers.
And, in a dramatic turn of events, Desperadoes, that had previously
indicated A Musical Treat, arranged by Clive before his demise,
as their Panorama choice has switched to Sir Clive Bradley.
Also playing this tune include Sound Redemption from Tobago, Tropical
Angel Harps and Hatters.
4. Good Times
Mark Loquan has matured as a serious composer of tunes for the pan.
With an experienced vocalist like Denyse Plummer he impressed enough
arrangers to place him third in the Panorama selections.
His composition will be played by at least five bands by the latest
count.
Notably Fonclaire from the South and and Our Boys from Tobago will
interpret this one.
Enough is Enough
This song which was inspired by the incident in Simple Song’s
panyard underlines the frustration of the populace of the increasing
senseless murders in the country.
Apart from the message in the lyrics, the music composed by Brian
“Bean” Griffith offers an interesting soca and jazz
blend.
Belmont Fifth Dimension and two other bands have made this their
tune of choice.
The vocals are performed by Steve Sealy and Alvin Daniell wrote
the lyrics.
High on De Pan
Edwin Pouchet is the composer and arranger of this high energy tune.
Silver Stars are hoping to retain the top slot in the Medium Band
Category which they held in 2004.
That time they played Pure Party sung by Eunice Peters.
This year they have reverted to her offering.
Once again the lyrics were done by Alvin Daniell.
Hard Wine
Tunapuna Scanty vocalised this tune which has impressed two East
zone bands. Curepe Scherzando and Birdsong are going with this number.
The arrangers are Douglas Redon and Rudy “Tulef” Smith
respectively.
The composer of the tune is Jason “Peanut” Isaac.
Other tunes
A variety of other selections are being played by at least one band
up to the time of writing this article. Starlift will play If we
really want composed and arranged by Ray Holman with lyrics by Winsford
“Joker” Devine.
Renegades has opted for Judgement Day composed by the Original Defosto
Himself. Once again Jit Samaroo is at the helm looking to increase
his string of Panorama victories.
Soca Warriors is the 2006 Panorama choice of Trinidad All Stars,
ending all the speculation as their tune of choice.
They have stated that this is their way of paying tribute to the
football team and on Panorama night one can expect a spectacle.
Festival Champions, Exodus, has pulled a unique number out of the
hat of Panorama selections.
They are going to the big yard with Destra’s Max It Up a potential
Road March contender.
This puts an interesting twist into the line-up of choices as it
is not considered your typical “pan song”.
Tokyo has chosen an interesting selection titled Outta Control.
This tune composed by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe and Alvin
Daniell was the winning Panorama tune in Antigua last July.
It was sung by De Panman, an Antiguan calypsonian.
Selwyn “Parry” Paul has been using his own compositions
for some time now.
This year, he has composed Doing It For Kitch, sung by Natalie Yorke.
Parry’s Pan School will compete in the East Medium category.
Listen out also for Mango Rose by Trini, Send A Tune by Singing
Francine, That Girl, a tribute to the girl who was shot down in
Simple Song’s panyard, composed by DeDiamond, A Musical Treat
composed by Steve “Diamond” Nanton, Valentino’s
Best In The West, and Sweet Hand by Kenny J.
The panmen have responded well to the wealth of tunes composed,
although most of the single pan bands have shown a preference for
vintage calypsoes.
Panorama 2006 promises to be a musical treat.
It is only left to see which tune will prove to be the right choice.
Next week, we will provide a complete listing of what all of the
bands will be playing. |