With a quick stop at Kolanut Cafe to check the scenes at Soca Intoxication, it was one exit North on the 95 to Fish 54 for Mix & Blend and all we doing is praying that we did not miss Destra's performance. We got there around 2am to the sounds of Soca music blaring through the parking lot... that made it real easy to find the party!

We must say ISLANDpeople fix up de place real nice. Inside, the capable bartenders kept the drinks flowing for the ample crowd that filled the venue, and the air-conditioning kept everyone cool and comfortable. Outside more partygoers gathered in groups in the court yard and under some the of the umbrellas, which were not needed as it was a rainless night in South Florida. What really set it off was the stage that had been erected, complete with disco lights and a fog machine, which just added to the anticipation of the 1st live performance in Miami for 2K5 by the sexy and talented Destra Garcia! We actually questioned the promoters about how they intended to accommodate a performer at this location, and were told to just wait and see. So, we waited and liked what we saw. Big up to ISLANDPeople and their main sponsor for the evening, Angostura.

Destra arrived shortly after we did, but instead of heading straight for the stage she chose to vibes the scene and mingled with the crowd... happily posing for pictures with fans. You know we had to get one too! ;-) We must say, it was a nice mature audience... you know, those of us no longer drawn to the prospect of partying with teeny-boppers in a ram-packed party. "Mature & Sexy" as they like to say.

Folks slowly emptied Fish 54 and made their way to the stage area as the show was about to start. A quick introduction by the MC and Destra entered the stage and commanded the full attention of the crowd for the next 45 mins. She performed with as much enthusiasm and gusto as if she were on stage at Bacchanal Wednesday in front of 12,000 fans with Atlantik backing her up (DJ Dorenzo filled in quite nicely). She took advantage of the intimacy of the settings and closeness of the crowd to interact with them directly in between tracks, showing excellent stage presence and showmanship. All that was missing was a stool and a guitar... it would have been Destra Unplugged! There was even an added bonus to the show when one fella got on stage, and was all too happy to undress for Destra when instructed... and wine when Destra commanded him.

All in all, it was a pretty good show and a pretty damn good event, we can't wait for the next ISLANDpeople offering. Tell a friend to tell a friend don't miss it!