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This nine-track final recording by the Grand Master Lord
Kitchener is as good a sampling as any of the veteran
calypsonian's impressive range. Two political commentaries reflect
both Kitchener's support for the People's National Movement, and
the traditional role of the calypsonian as political watchdog.
The
celebratory Pan Birthday is the last of a long line of calypsos
written especially for the steelpan, a trend begun (and perfected)
by Kitchener himself in 1946 with Beat of the Steelband. Moko
Jumbie marvels at Carnival's traditional stilt-dancers, and Back
Yard Party captures the spirit of a Trini-style outdoor revel -
both examples of the skilful, imaginative way in which Kitchener
recorded the country's cultural aspects. As the last work recorded
before his death on February 11, 2000, Classic Kitch is destined
to become a collector's item. Also includes a remix of old
favourite Gimme De Ting. (VB) |
