There’s no better way to start the countdown to Carnival than at the beginning – with calypso, the first music of the Caribbean. ACASA’s Calypso Monarch Finals takes place at The Tabernacle, Powis Square, on Thursday, 24 August. There’s poignancy amid the celebratory atmosphere this year as we mourn the passing of Shabaka Thompson, who, along with Mighty Tiger (Ashton Moore), was one of the London Calypso Tent’s founders 31 years ago.
With music provided by the amazing ACASA All Stars Band, backing vocals from the Divettes and enthusiastic support from the audience, the finals showcase the UK’s calypso talent in all its varied styles. This is as far from formulaic commercial music as you can get, as calypsonians vie for the coveted title of Calypso Monarch through clever storytelling, humour and social commentary.
In order of appearance, you’ll be hearing Musicman, Muffinman, Helena B, Clivus, Alexander D Great, De Admiral, G-String and London’s own ‘Grandmaster’, the 13-times winner Lord Cloak.
