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ISTORY ... EVOLUTION ... LIFE

This has been one of the most hyped events after the Carnival 2008 Season, and it was highly expected to be a memorable concert, in fact so memorable I had to stay up and write this review as soon as I got home. Arriving at the Queen's Park Savannah, we evaluated parking in the Savannah and chose the road, which turned out to be better in terms of traffic - you know the funnel, single file and push and shove business that goes on when is time to leave the Savannah after a big bram!! We filed in the All Access entrance and immediately gauged the scene. The set up of the venue was pretty standard - VIP directly in front the stage, and general right behind.

The DJs on the sets were already setting the mood for Beres Hammond, playing groovy long time Soca, as well as, long time Dancehall classics. This one still is resonating in my mind, Trinity & Ruddy Thomas "Loving Pauper". A definite and exceptionally unique classic of the 20th Century.

Beres took the stage accompanied with his infamous Harmony House band and three sexy & stylish backup singers. Performing for over an hour, he dished out an exhilarating set composed of many melodies, including his famous and chart-topping tunes such as "Rock Away", "Who Say" and "Can You Play Some More". Beres also combined in his set some of the collaborations with Buju Banton, performing Buju's lyrics in that deep husky unique voice of Mr. Banton. Hammond serenaded the ladies at the front of stage, sitting down directly at the edge, shaking a few hands, while blowing countless kisses to the insatiable fans.

Twenty minutes later after Beres outstanding performance, Buju Banton and the Til' Shiloh band embraced the stage with his glowing presence and hyped the already hyped crowd. Ground breaking tunes were dished out combined with various different renditions of the originals such as "Champion", "Love Sponge", "Paid Not Played" and especially "Me And Uno". Buju a.k.a Gargamel is an exceptional performer that no words can be put to paper to describe any performance that he delivers.

Now why not have both the Teacher and the Student on the stage at the same time? Of course! With numerous collaborations under their belts, Buju and Beres have become somewhat a household name for Dancehall and Reggae collaborations. VP Records/Greensleeves, Gargamel Music Studios or Harmony House Music should produce a compilation and market it ... it would make loads ... especially when you get the chance to see them live!! It compels you to go out and get their music collaborations.

Tonight was no different, both artistes were dancing, jumping and providing lyrical finesse to the crowd as the night continued on into the morning. To add spice to the already bubbling night, they both interchanged verses with Buju showing off his talent and sharpening his voice to reach the notes of Beres, while Mr. Hammond excited us with his versatility by performing and easily singing Buju's lyrics during one of their collaborations. Enjoyment to its highest! Simple and to the point! Who cannot love Buju and Beres??!!

The vibe of the concert from the start to finish was exceptionally mellow - not one bad vibe present - everyone was in a loving, grooving and enjoyable vibe. "I AM LEGEND ... THE CONCERT" was worth the night out, especially if you were down and needing cheering up.

Noise Productions kudos! Big respect from the TJJ fam. We in yuh next event large and in charge!

Amiel
Always Forward, Never Backward