For the past few weeks we have been discussing Scratch Band, Quelbe, and Fungi Music. We have covered the basic makeup of the bands and told you what is available from the Ten Sleepless Knights and Jamsie.
We now want to introduce you to three more currently active groups and their albums.
Blinky and the Roadmasters, another St. Croix favorite, recorded Crucian Scratch Band Music for Rounder Records in 1990. This well recorded album features 12 songs, all traditional, including: Cigar Win the Race, La Bega’’s Carousel, Caroline and Pussy Whiskers. The Roadmasters feature two saxophones and the vocals of Sylvester "Blinky" McIntosh.
Also from St. Croix comes Bully and the Musical Kafooners album Ring Ting Ting. This CD was recorded live at Harbor Nights and catches some of the true feeling of a live jam. It features 12 songs, most are traditional with a couple of Sparrow tunes.
The British Virgin Islands are represented by the Lashing Dogs from Tortola. The Dogs sound a little different as they do not use a lead instrument and have a unique intertwining vocal sound. The CD At Last, features the hit song Man Like You, also Wake Up in the Morning, and I Will Never Turn My Back. Remember this band is from the BVI so they call it Fungi Music.
Fortunately Scratch band Music still exists. It has faded due to a lack of interest of younger generations. This has happened all over the world with traditional music. In other cultures, people have realized the importance of their roots music and have begun to embrace it again. Hopefully, some of our younger people will put down their electric instruments for a few minutes and pick up instruments of an earlier time and discover the joy of jamming with their friends.
For a full range of Caribbean music, check out www.parrotfishmusic.com.
Mr. Fish