‘Calling’, an album recently released by Queen Atara, is a fine listen that shows many sides to the budding songwriter, singer and rapper. Featuring Nature Ellis (“Never Mislead Me”), Yah Meek (“Try”, “Forevermore”) and Don Eldee (“Just Think About It”), the 10-track album broaches many topics using various approaches.
The title track, “Calling”, is a nyabinghi-laced introduction, leading to reggae tunes that lean more towards roots-puritan influences where the sound is concerned; pop and hip hop are also blended into the mix. Atara sings about “toxic” love, gives encouragement, looks towards Jah and the ancestors and visits lovemaking in a wholesome, almost family-friendly way.
The Jamaican-born, Austrian-based artiste continues t0 be an ambassador in the mission to spread Jamaican music everywhere, especially in the diaspora. These connections are important to maintain, as our industry gains life by breathing in new influences and creating now methods of our own for export. “Calling” by Queen Atara is an album well done.
To follow Queen Atara and access her work, please see the accompanying links:
UNESCO has announced the launching of a ‘Business Angels’ scheme, a one-to-one business mentorship programme for young cultural and creative entrepreneurs in the Caribbean. This initiative is part of the programme Transcultura: Integrating Cuba, the Caribbean and the European Union through Culture and Creativity, funded by the European Union, open from March to November 2024, which aims to create career opportunities for youth in the cultural and creative industries in the Caribbean.
The scheme will be open to culture professionals aged between 18 and 35 from the beneficiary countries of the Transcultura programme: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenade, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago. It will offer online mentoring services, matching qualified mentors with young cultural professionals to provide career orientation, help with business strategies, and address specific challenges related to cultural and creative businesses.
Topics for counseling include business planning, networking, marketing, branding, communication, and fundraising. Young cultural and creative entrepreneurs will be able to request an individual appointment with a mentor for a session of up to one hour, with a maximum of four appointments over the duration of the ‘Business Angels’ scheme (from March to October 2024).
The programme Transcultura: Integrating Cuba, the Caribbean and the European Union through Culture and Creativity, implemented by UNESCO and funded by the European Union, has announced a call for 24 scholarships aimed at young Caribbean culture professionals. The scholarships will enable participation in face-to-face courses at the International Film and Television School of San Antonio de los Baños, Cuba. This institution is a member of the Caribbean Cultural Training Hub, created by the Transcultura programme to boost the professionalization of the cultural and creative sectors in the region.
The courses offered in this call cover topics relating to the audiovisual and interactive media sphere and more specifically, sound editing. The courses will last 2 weeks (60 teaching hours in double sessions) from 17 to 28 June 2024. The courses will be taught in Spanish with simultaneous interpretation into English and French. Applications can be sent until Monday 8 April 2024 at 23:59 hours Havana time (GMT-5).
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024 asks entrants to consider how they deal with adversity, and how community and culture can be used to encourage resilience and hope in a world with a growing number of global issues. Writers should be between 14-18 years old for the senior category, and under 14 for the junior category. Deadline for submissions is May 15, 2024.
Romain Virgo‘s latest album, ‘The Gentle Man’, is an exciting, fresh listen that will grab the ears and satiate the musical palate. Featuring Masicka(“Been There Before”), Patoranking & Silly Walks Discotheque(“I Believe”), Jesse Royal(“Bridges”), and Capleton (“You Must Pay”), the album packs twelve tracks that have been curated for one’s aural delight.
The writers were Romain Virgo, Javaun Fearon, Nicholas Browne, Rayon Curate, Romeich Major, Donovan Bennett, Matthew Keaveny, Daniel Weltner, Nkunku Maximila Milanda, Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, Phillip Meckseper, Oliver Schrader, Joscha Hoffman, Maurice Delauney, Dennis Emmanuel Brown, Phillip James, Andre Stefan Hall, Sean Alaric, Simon Alexander Mitchell, Terry Bennett, Kareem Spencer, Jesse Gray, Oliver Rodigan, Clifton Bailey III, Dayan Foster and Hugh Beresford Hammond.
Drums and bass were by Romeich Major, Dj Densen, .MLND, Maurice ‘Seani B’ Delauney, Kevin McPherson, Makiri Whyte, Jevaughn Latty, Andre Hall, Phillip ‘Winta’ James, Devon Bradshaw, Glen Browne, Oliver ‘Cadenza’ Rodigan, and Donald ‘Danny Bassie’ Dennis. Keyboards were played by Rayon ‘Slyda’ Ricardo Curate, Evad Campbell, .MLND, Kevin McPherson, Roan Johnson, Phillip ‘Winta’ James, and O’Niel Dacres.
Background vocals were Tori-Ann Ivy, Janeel Mills, and Carl Lee Scharsmidt. Guitarists were DJ Densen, . MLND, Jared Ansine, Ian ‘Beezy’ Coleman, Ranoy Gordon, and N’namdi Robinson. The saxophone was played by Dean Fraser. Recording engineers were Nicholas ‘Niko’ Browne, Orane Carney, Michael ‘Boxxy’ Howell, Tandra Jahgroo. Donovan ‘Doncorleon’ Bennett and Phillip Meckseper played all the instruments for the respective tracks.
Publishers were credited as STB Music Inc. dba Music by STB (ASCAP), Jack Russell Publishing Dubplate Music, Jack Russell Publishing, Ultra International Publishing Company, Islandrockpublishing Llc/Bmi, GEMA, Mad Decent, Sony ATV, Maurice Delauney, Analog MetaSongs (PRS), Sean Alaric Publishing, Giving Pro Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing, Clifton Bailey III and Dayan Foster (ASCAP).
The recording studios used were Lifeline Music Studio, Bay Eight Recording Studios, Tuff Gong Studio, Anchor Recording Studios, Big Yard Studios and Tad’s Recording Studio. Producers included Romeich Major, Rayon ‘Slyda’ Ricardo Curate, Nicholas ‘Niko’ Browne, Donovan ‘Doncorleon’ Bennett, DJ Densen, .MLND, Oliver Schrader, Joscha Hoffman, Maurice ‘Seani B’ Delauney, Andre Stefan Hall, Sean Alaric Ricketts, Phillip ‘Winta’ James and Dayan ‘Pete’ Foster.
Mixing engineers were Mario ‘Dunw3ll’ Dunwell, Donovan ‘Doncorleon’ Bennett, Mix Master Garzy, James ‘Bonzai’ Caruso, Maroon Riddimz, and Gregory Morris. The executive producer was Christopher Chin, with mastering by Christopher Scott (at Castek Systems Solutions). Photography and art direction/ design was by Samo ‘Kush-I’ Johnson. Additional edits/ production was by Deron James. A&R was by Neil ‘Diamond’ Edwards. Legal and business affairs/ A&R admin was John McQueeney.
Courtesy credits were also noted to Def Jam Recordings (Masicka’s appearance), Amari Musiq Ltd. (Patoranking’s appearance), Analog Metaverse and Warner Chappell Music (for Dennis Brown samples and interpolations), and Music of STB (Beres Hammond’s “Irie & Mello” interpolation).
This album is a particular favourite of mine as Romain seems to pour his gentlemanly charisma into all of the songs presented. “Red Dress” is my top pick, followed closely by “Want You Now”, and “No Curfew”. All the collaborative songs sounded complete and satisfactorily complimentary. This is just one album that you have to get familiar with; feel free to ask any member of Virgo’s solid fanbase who will be sure to agree.
To follow Romain Virgo and access his work, please see the accompanying links:
The ability to put pain into art is a tool being developed by many talents, and Geo Lyrical has has honed his skills into a collection of songs that provoke thought, reflection, meditation and self-regulation. Songs like “Weh Me Heart Gone (W.M.H.G)”, “Light”, “Nothing Nuh Change” and “Last Cry” spoke to me especially. The riddims may have been slightly monotonous in terms of a trap dancehall feel, but for the themes covered in the lyrics, it seemed a fitting choice.
In 2024, we have become more acquainted with opening up about our pains and hurts. Covering them rarely increases the health of the individual; rather, it contributes to a number of incorrect thought processes that complicate the issues. Music is a great medium for airing one’s thoughts as it enhances the understanding and accountability of the individual involved, and ‘Resurgence’ is a perfect example of this.
To follow Geo Lyrical and access his work, please see the accompanying links:
‘Love Letters to K’, the fourth studio effort from Clane Matthew, was released on February 14, 2024. Produced by Matthew and Sirdelapp, the album features Don Lavish(“Waiting For You”), Yannè (“123”) and Demi(“Drop It Guh Down”).
Clane has been making a name for himself locally and internationally, and continues to gain fans and make appearances worldwide. This is album is of a similar niche such as ‘To Tanesha’ by Vybz Kartel. In this lane, emotions and vulnerability are the order of the day, and Clane does well in baring his soul.
The album is a nice listen for lovers , those who love love, and even those who like to reminisce on sweet memories. Clane has always managed to grab attention with his lyrics and harmonies, and his approach to subject matters. An album for all seasons, ‘Love Letters to K’ is a nice addition to Matthew’s catalogue.
To follow Clane Matthew and access his work, please see the accompanying links:
“After work she pick up phone an’ seh fi link up/ So after work, nuh badda ‘itch up, mek we lif’ up/ After work, she give it up, quick like a stick up/ At first she never with us, now she affi switch up” – bigTree, “Switch Up (BFF)”
This is one mixtape I’ve been playing repeatedly. ‘lost & fumed’, the latest release by bigTreeJM (bigNatty and bigMoody) is near-perfect, in my opinion. Featuring the contributions of Knixx Taylor (“Giant”), Mila.Akilah (“Double Tap”) and Spacekat (“Let Yuh Go”), production was done by SOS Dynamikz and bigTreeJM.
bigTree has the ability to weave the patois sound into hip hop/rap frames that are appropriate, clear and authentic. Guest artistes are also given a lot of room to explore their creativity, and the chemistry is never rushed. If one expects to hear some reggae or dancehall, this is present in “Contraband Freestyle”; however, the rest of the songs are a Jamaican rapper’s haven. Have a listen today!
To follow bigTree and access their work, please see the accompanying links:
‘Trilogy’, the latest release by Dexta Daps, is a mix of genres, styles, topics and collaborations that work. The 16-track album featured accompanying acts such as Masicka(“OK”), Chronic Law(“Friendship Sale”), Rally Banks(“Wuk Fi Mine”), Jada Kingdom(“Purge”), and Alaine(“See It Yah”). Qyor, Bounty Killer and Jahshii are also credited as supporting the album. ‘Trilogy’ was released by Dexta Daps Music Group.
Dexta really steps out in this collection. He is most widely-known for songs for the ladies, and these are always appreciated and fill a considerable number of spots on the album. However, Daps also deals with love, friendships, badness, dating double standards, and showers of blessings. The clean version is also available so everyone can have a listen.
It is amazing to witness Daps’ growth as a well-rounded singer, songwriter and performer. I was one who thought his musical maturity would not see much development any time soon, but over the years I have been proven wrong by the variety of works he has been able to apply himself to. This album is a notable example of modern Caribbean music.
To listen to ‘Trilogy’ and access Dexta Daps’ work, please see the accompanying links:
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are prestigious international masters, jointly designed and delivered by a group of higher education institutions.
They involve at least 3 institutions from at least 3 different countries, and multiple associated partners from the academic and non-academic world.
Typically, they include periods of study, research, traineeship, thesis preparation and defence.
Scholarships available
Masters may also offer full scholarships to the best-ranked students worldwide. Scholarships cover your participation costs and contribute to: travel visa a living allowance Masters duration 1 to 2 academic years (60, 90 or 120 ECTS credits).
Type of degree awarded
You will gain either: – a joint degree (i.e. one single degree certificate issued on behalf of at least two higher education institutions) or – multiple degrees (i.e. at least two degree certificates issued by two higher education institutions of the consortium) – You’ll be able to define these in detail when you sign a study agreement with the relevant Erasmus Mundus Joint Master at the beginning of your studies.
Search and apply
Students apply directly to the institution running their chosen programme. You can search the course catalogue for details of the latest programmes on offer. A new batch of selected Erasmus Mundus Masters is added to the list each year. In most cases, you should submit your application between October and January for courses starting the following academic year.
Each master’s website has all the details about the course of study, the list of the participating universities, the entry requirements and all the steps of the application process (with and without scholarship).
What you need
You must: – have a bachelor’s degree (first degree), or be in your last year of bachelor studies – graduate before the master’s programme starts – You may also apply if you demonstrate a bachelor’s equivalent level of learning. This must be officially recognised, according to national legislation and practices, in the degree awarding country.
The Embassy of the European Union in the Dominican Republic, in collaboration with the Sinfonía Foundation and the support of Mr. Michael Haentjes, presents the first ProPiano Regional Competition, with the aim of promoting the talent and creativity of young people passionate about the piano and with promising careers.
The competition will help foster cultural exchange in the Caribbean region and allow young musicians to showcase their talent in front of an international jury.
The Propiano Award began in the Dominican Republic and has been a national event for three editions, with the aim of promoting the study of the piano and encouraging its practice in young musicians.
The first edition of PROPIANO CARIBE will be open to candidates from Caribbean countries and young piano students and pianists born between2001 and 2005 will be able to participate.
A simple google search of the name ‘Monifa Goss‘ will show a plethora of accolades, accomplishments, appearances and accompaniments that have cemented the status of this burgeoning creative in Jamaican music. Presenting her EP ‘Eve’, Goss compiles six tracks that show genre diversity, a strong-will approach to subject topics, and proof of well-trained musical sensibilities. The EP was produced by the Creed Music Global and EMPIRE labels.
The tracks are generally catchy, and will certainly have your attention. Though not a fan of feminism, Goss’ interpretation of music in convincing enough to have me considering submission. From singing along to “Outside” and the impressive bravado in “Bad Gyal”, to hearing Daddy1 wax poetic with her in “Vibe”, the production quality is hard to miss. Also featured on the EP is Gabrá (“The One”).
I believe that what sets Goss apart is her willingness to explore. For men, women and others, music can be an industry where sticking to norms and expected patterns is seen as the safe way to build an audience and have a fan base. Monifa tends to leave safety behind and unleashes unbridled energy that manages to relate to those who aren’t even fans of her sound. Add to that her consistency to successfully punch above her weight, and you have an artiste that you definitely have to look out for.
To follow Monifa Goss and access her work, please see the accompanying links:
“It’s not just that every bar is tucked into the deepest part of the pocket. It’s also that Samory somehow manages to be vulnerable, broken, triumphant, plaintive, and passionate all at once — all in the same chorus, even. It’s enough to make you shake off a down year, and look forward to ‘24.” – Rolling Stone
Samory-I presents a wholly mature, developed sound in his second album, ‘Strength’. The 11-track offering consists of reggae-based songs of various themes, from social commentary, love and self identity to fatherhood, harvesting, and peace. I thoroughly enjoyed it my listening session, no tracks skipped. Featured acts include Lila Iké (“Outside”), Jesse Royal (“Continent”), Kabaka Pyramid and Capleton (“Wrath”), and Mortimer (“History of Violence”).
Songwriters were credited as being Samory Frazer, Phillip James, Gregory Isaacs, Alecia Grey, Keron Salmon, Clifton Bailey III, Glenford Lee Prospere, Mortimer McPherson, Sherieta Lewis-Rodney. Composers were Phillip “Winta” James. Publishing was done by Sony Songs, MNRK Music Publishing, Westbury Music Ltd (BMI) and NW Collections/ Jack Russell Music Ltd, KGN Six LLC, Capleton Music, Glenford Lee Prospere Publishing, BMG Rights Management, and Greensleeves Music Publishing Designee.
The album was executively produced by Phillip James and Claire Osman. Claire Osman, Lem Oppenheimer and Eric Smith were the product managers. Photography and design was by Yannick Reid. Management was by Bridgett Anderson and Claire Osman, with Oralee Bras was executive assistant. The album was produced with Overstand Entertainment under license to Easy Star Records.
To follow Samory I and access his work, please see the accompanying links:
Jamaican Art Hub 