The second instalment of Kaiso Lime 2022 got underway at the Tabernacle, on Saturday 2 July. The entire Kaiso Lime season is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Lord Kitchener (Aldwyn Roberts).
Regular performers Tobago Crusoe and D’Alberto were on the bill, alongside Pae3ot (son of Trinidad Rio) and newcomer Michael ‘Bubbles’ Olivier.
Tobago Crusoe opened the proceedings, giving a historical account of the ‘Grandmaster’s’ life and calypso career. References were made to Kitchener’s arrival in England in June 1948, where from the boat he was given the chance to showcase his calypso talent and sing London is the Place for Me. Both Tobago Crusoe and D’Alberto delivered their own versions of the song during the night’s proceedings.
Kitchener’s time in England shaped his musical material significantly, and inspired him to perform numbers such as Mister Give Me De Rent and Doreen, the latter where he complains about the lady’s cooking abilities being limited to preparing fish and chips as opposed to his beloved Trinidadian cuisine.
Next up to perform was Trinidad Rio’s son, Pae3ot, no stranger to Kaiso Lime. With a repertoire that encompasses a mixture of old and new soca, Pae3ot began his set with Hit Me with Music, then performed a rendition of his father’s calypso Travelling Man, and rounded off with Lord Invader’s Rum and Coca Cola.
D’Alberto stepped up to the microphone, telling the Kaiso Lime audience that Kitchener’s calypsos were sought after by fans, year after year. His set included Kitchener’s Margie, a number he has performed at Kaiso Lime many a time. D’Alberto spoke of the talent of the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and told the audience about working with acclaimed Trinidadian pannist and composer Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe, Leston Paul (music producer) and Dr Ray on his first album, back in 1987. The crowd at the Tabernacle responded very positively to the calypsonian’s newest tune, Yuh Better Looking, which tells of a wife who finds her husband more attractive when he’s wearing his face mask.
Host and performer Tobago Crusoe opened the second part of the show, delivering more Kitchener tunes and commentary. Michael ‘Bubbles’ Oliver made his debut at Kaiso Lime performing the steelband favourite, Pan in A Minor and the infamous Sugar Bum Bum.
Kaiso Lime is supported by Soca News, Cocoyea London, Savannah View and Carnival Village Trust. The event runs until October 2022 at the Tabernacle, Powis Square, London W11 2AY. Doors open at 7pm for a showtime of 8pm, with free entry all evening. Back in time hits in between the live acts are provided by Soca Massive and DJ Fats. The Tabernacle has a licenced bar, and Caribbean food is on sale.
