News

CD review
by Wayne Bowman

Pan Sweet Pan
Various Artistes (SANCH)

Here is an opportunity to contribute to the continued growth, development and promotion of the pan, while enjoying some fine examples of the music created and performed on the instrument. The Pan Sweet Pan CD collection is a revenue generating project embarked upon by the Sanch recording label on behalf of the Pan Development Fund. Monies raised for the fund will be invested into technological research and development as well as promoting the pan and its music on international levels.

The seven-track CD offers a running time of over 78 minutes, during which you will be entertained by some of the world's top steel orchestras. You'll enjoy some of the most loved Panorama selections of 1999. Listeners will even be transported back almost two decades to again enjoy a performance of one of the most loved pan tunes ever composed.

Simeon Sandiford, who has over the past two decades made significant contributions to the development of the local recording industry by introducing new techniques in production and engineering serves as the project's producer. He carefully selected the pieces featured here, intent on giving the consumer value for money, even if he were simply purchasing the CD to help the cause.

The opening track brings with it nostalgia as the Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars perform the classic Scrunter number, "Woman On The Bass." That familiar melody awakens the spirit, as cherished memories of that era come alive. More reflections of days gone by as track two kicks off and the Exodus Steel Orchestra performs the Mighty Sparrow's, "Play My Music." Jit Samaroo then shares centre-stage with his Renegades for a rendition of DeFosto's, "Pan In A Rage."

Even a band known as The Rising Stars, which is based in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands got in on the action, offering their interpretation of Kitchener's, "Toco Band." Veteran band PCS Starlift delivers an exciting 14-minute rendition of Oba Synette's, "In My House" as arranged by Annise Hadeed. That groovy mood is maintained as Tunapuna based Birdsong Steel performs "Trini Know How To Party." Fonclaire brings the pan party to a close with the last arrangement done for the band by Ken 'Professor' Philmore, "Carnival Is We."

Pan Sweet Pan has been recorded using newly developed 24-bit HDCD recording process, which is specifically designed to bring out the best in live productions. Even the packaging has received special attention with Sandiford turning to artist Ken Scott who created a lovely piece that was used for the inner sleeve. Pan Sweet Pan looks sweet, sounds sweeter and through your patronage will sweeten the future of Trinidad and Tobago's National Instrument.

Review Trinidad Guardian page 22 Saturday 10 June 2000.