Photos by Andre C.Y Choo Quan

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What's up my Kings and Queens!

Well it's the end of March and you know what that means ... Machel Montano feva in NYC! Trini Jungle Juice was up front and center at the exclusive Antilia Press Party for Mr. Montano himself. The venue, gorgeous, classy and filled with beautiful people!

As soon as you entered, you were escorted into a large area decked out in red couches accented by soft white lights, orchid centerpieces and of course, d bar! Did I mention that this was a premium open bar event (courtesy of leading Caribbean rum brand, Angostura 1919)? There were waitresses handing out Caribbean Club martinis of every color and flavor you could think of and a fully stocked bar that even included Shandy (I am a sucka for d' Sorrel )! Now I was a little thrown by the bar not having any straws though, (a girl does have to watch her lipstick) but that didn't stop your girl from gettin' down!

After we made our way around the venue, we noticed a stage. Could there be a performance by the man himself? More on that later. It was great to see many of Machel's friends come out to support him. Stars like chutney/soca artist Rikki Jai, fashion designer Peter Elias, famed photographer Jonathan Mannion, former Miss World Giselle La Ronde and our 2008 Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe & World representatives, Anya Ayoung-Chee and Gabriel Walcott all enjoyed the sweet sounds spun by the DJs, and sipped on cocktails while awaiting the arrival of Machel. We also spotted soca artists Jadine aka the Soca Deva (hailing from the Emerald Isle of Montserrat) and Kevon Carter in the building.

Music on the night was supplied by System Lords International (S.L.I) and Ishmael D Demolition Man (TnT 96.1 WEFM), who flew in for this special occasion. Towards the end of the evening, even Umba D' Sheppard joined in on the action to hype the party ready crowd. Large up Barry (Jugglers Sound) on the inside.

Ok so minutes to midnight, Machel arrives! Pannist Dane Gulston jammed on his steelpan (still very polished & shinny) to the melodies of Machel's "Jumbie" as the soca superstar entered the loft. After taking a five in the VIP area, Montano took to the stage ... but no performance. The poor man lost his voice! Now we can't be mad at him, especially after he gave not one, but two great performances the night before at Madison Square Garden. It's only fair we let the man rest, people! Even though he didn't perform, it was still nice to see him and hear him give his fans thanks before toasting to Madison Square Garden 2009 and Caribbean love and unity. I know they appreciated it, especially one girl who after Machel said "This is my dream", she shouted enthusiastically, "YOU ARE MY DREAM!!" Y'all not easy, yes! Members of the media then got an opportunity to interview or chat with Montano one on one. Of course you know TJJ TV had to put Machel on the Hot Seat!

All around, the vibes were nice, good people, good drinks, good music. I found myself chippin' out the door minutes to 2:00am, gift bag in hand, forgetting Papa Juice upstairs! Not a bad night! Special thanks to Rhona (Rhona Fox, Inc.), Lisa (Addict Artist Management), and especially Simon, Richele and the entire Antilia staff for the warm hospitality. Keep up the great work!

Mix Juice
(Chooks aka Daddy Juice contributed to this review)

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