Internet Info 1994 March/Internet Info CD-ROM (Walnut Creek) (March 1994).iso/answers/rec/music/reggae/part2

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[10.] What are the different reggae styles?

From: [e-mail] (Paul Harvey)
Subject: Re: Reggae styles

In article <[e-mail]>
[e-mail] (Joel Nevison) writes:
>One thing I am a bit fuzzy on is the defining characteristics of
>the various styles of reggae; dancehall, rock steady, etc etc.
>I have a grip on the difference between ska and dub, but those
>are pretty obvbious.  Could some of the experts here give an outline
>of the musical characteristics of the various styles?   Also helpful
>would be a short list of titles that are good examples of or define
>a particular style.   I've been listening to reggae for so long, and
>mainly break it down into two groups; love it, and okay.  Seems I
>ought to maybe think about it a little more now.

I'll start but, it's not easy to do in writing. And I could probably
stand some education myself, anyway:

Ska - 50-60's, pioneered by the Skatalites? There is a thing called the
ska beat, which I don't really know how to describe, maybe you take each
beat and make it triplet with the two outer notes played by a guitar or
keyboard or horn and the center note a drum hit. Anyway, much ska was
just American pop of the 50-60's with a ska beat, but there was orginal
stuff also and there were certainly a lot of variations in the basic ska
beat.

Dub - is just dubing something, usually vocals, onto an instrumental
version, often a B side.

Rock Steady was late 60's and was a slowed down version of ska with more
of a rock feel.

Roots was sort of a cross between American Rock and Ska/Rock-Steady, The
Wailers being the equivalent of the Beatles.

Dancehall seems to be the catchall for 80's and 90's Jamaican music and
is a varied as American Modern Rock/Pop music. Shabba Ranks is probably
the big name here, but there are of course many others. There are lots
of terms for sub-types of Dancehall.


From: [e-mail] (Lee Dirks)
Subject: Re: Reggae styles

In article <[e-mail]> [e-mail] (Paul Harvey) writes:

>In article <[e-mail]>
>[e-mail] (Joel Nevison) writes:
>>One thing I am a bit fuzzy on is the defining characteristics of
>>the various styles of reggae; dancehall, rock steady, etc etc.

>Ska - 50-60's, pioneered by the Skatalites?

I'm not sure anyone can say exactly who pioneered ska, but the Skatalites
were definitely right there at the beginning...and are still going strong!

>Dub - is just dubing something, usually vocals, onto an instrumental
>version, often a B side.

As far as I know, Dub should probably come in later down in this list, but
that is a minor point.

>Rock Steady was late 60's and was a slowed down version of ska with more
>of a rock feel.

I think you could safely say early 60s...

>Roots was sort of a cross between American Rock and Ska/Rock-Steady, The
>Wailers being the equivalent of the Beatles.

Good call.  Fitting in after Roots (chronologically) would be Lover's Rock
and the man Gregory Isaacs, along with many other smooth singers of this style.

Before we jump on to dancehall, I think you should mention its origins, those
being Toasting and DJ.  At least I would say these are the precursors, or the
given to dancehall before it was called dancehall. Toasting: U-Roy would
probably be one of the grand-daddys of this musical form (Big Youth as well?),
working the sound systems and chanting and toasting over dub versions of other
popular tunes of their day.  Then, that was followed by the DJ style
popularized by The King (in his day) Yellowman; this style glided straight
into Dancehall as we know it today.  At least, this is my take on the
situation.  I'm more a roots man myself, so I'm not exactly taking about my
field here.

>Dancehall seems to be the catchall for 80's and 90's Jamaican music and
>is a varied as American Modern Rock/Pop music. Shabba Ranks is probably
>the big name here, but there are of course many others. There are lots
>of terms for sub-types of Dancehall.


I think this idea of drawing up catageories and writing descriptions and
listing artists which define the style is a good idea which should be
continued by all who wish to contribute.  This could develop into a file
worth saving.  Let's keep filling in the blanks!!

From: [e-mail]
Subject: Re: Reggae styles

In article <[e-mail]>, [e-mail] (Lee Dirks) writes:
> In article <[e-mail]> [e-mail] (Paul Harvey) writes:
>
>>In article <[e-mail]>
>>[e-mail] (Joel Nevison) writes:
>>>One thing I am a bit fuzzy on is the defining characteristics of
>>>the various styles of reggae; dancehall, rock steady, etc etc.
>
>>Ska - 50-60's, pioneered by the Skatalites?
>
> I'm not sure anyone can say exactly who pioneered ska, but the Skatalites
> were definitely right there at the beginning...and are still going strong!
Most people contribute it to Laurel Atikan (I know I spelled that wrong).
>>Dub - is just dubing something, usually vocals, onto an instrumental
>>version, often a B side.
Ah but so much more brah. It started out with people like King Tubby and
Augustus Pablo taking the instrumental tracks from the A-sides, then pumping up
the bass, using delay (like an echo) effects on the instruments and sometimes
maybe a snatch of vocals for the B-sides. If it was just stripping the vocals o
ff, then it's just a "version" record. This is why some songs use the same ridd
ims. But then, they just started having studio musicians provide the music.
Now, with the new techno-dub, for lack of a better word, the drum machines and
synths are doing a lot of it- like Jah Shaka and King (used to be Prince)
Jammy's newer stuff.
> As far as I know, Dub should probably come in later down in this list, but
> that is a minor point.
>
>>Rock Steady was late 60's and was a slowed down version of ska with more
>>of a rock feel.
>
> I think you could safely say early 60s...
>
>>Roots was sort of a cross between American Rock and Ska/Rock-Steady, The
>>Wailers being the equivalent of the Beatles.
>
> Good call.  Fitting in after Roots (chronologically) would be Lover's Rock
> and the man Gregory Isaacs, along with many other smooth singers of this style.
>
> Before we jump on to dancehall, I think you should mention its origins, those
> being Toasting and DJ.  At least I would say these are the precursors, or the
> given to dancehall before it was called dancehall. Toasting: U-Roy would
> probably be one of the grand-daddys of this musical form (Big Youth as well?),
> working the sound systems and chanting and toasting over dub versions of other
> popular tunes of their day.  Then, that was followed by the DJ style
> popularized by The King (in his day) Yellowman; this style glided straight
> into Dancehall as we know it today.  At least, this is my take on the
> situation.  I'm more a roots man myself, so I'm not exactly taking about my
> field here.
>
>>Dancehall seems to be the catchall for 80's and 90's Jamaican music and
>>is a varied as American Modern Rock/Pop music. Shabba Ranks is probably
>>the big name here, but there are of course many others. There are lots
>>of terms for sub-types of Dancehall.
Definately true- about the deejay style of the 80's before dancehall now. Like
Eek-A-Mouse, Michigan and Smiley, and King Yello. For those of you interested
in some CONSCIOUS DANCEHALL- check out Charlie Chaplin -"Take Two," etc.
>
> I think this idea of drawing up catageories and writing descriptions and
> listing artists which define the style is a good idea which should be
> continued by all who wish to contribute.  This could develop into a file
> worth saving.  Let's keep filling in the blanks!!
>
I remeber reading about all these wierd names like "sleng-teng" and some others
I don't remember. I think sleng-teng was real techno-synth stuff. And I still
don't know what "inna yard style" is! Yeah yard is your house, but someone tell
me an actual artist in the yardee style, if any.


Respect,
Brad

From: [e-mail]
Subject: Re: Reggae styles
Date: 13 Mar 93 07:29:05 GMT

In article <[e-mail]>, [e-mail] (Steve McGowan) writes:
> [e-mail] (Lee Dirks) writes:
>
>>In article <[e-mail]> [e-mail] (Paul Harvey) writes:
>
>>>In article <[e-mail]>
>>>[e-mail] (Joel Nevison) writes:
>>>>One thing I am a bit fuzzy on is the defining characteristics of
>>>>the various styles of reggae; dancehall, rock steady, etc etc.
>
>
> I posted a very similar question a couple of months ago, but got
> no replies.  I asked if anyone knew how/where the music style
> known as Mento fitted in with the development of reggae.
>
> I think Mento may have been more blues oriented than reggae (as we
> know it today), but not so distant that reggae could not evolve
> from it.
>
> Anyone shed some light?

My understanding of mento was that it is more like calypso (old calypso as
opposed to soca).  It certainly sounds like it, more rhythmical lyrically, in a
storytelling tradition which suggests that it is closer to the original African
music forms.  Some fuzzy memory tells me I'm on the right track but don't quote
me definitely.  It was probably more influenced by the folk music forms of
England & great britain, since it comes from an era where dances like the
quadrille were still prevalent.

It definitely predates ska, and if you listen to ska then you can hear some of
the mento influence coming through, and of course reggae comes out of the ska
tradition.

There is a Jamaican "musicologist" (whatever that is supposed to mean), Dermot
Hussey, who has published several articles on this.  Unfortunately residing in
"Babylon" at present means I have no way of enlightening you:-)

-----------
[11.] CARIBANA FAQ

            CARIBANA '93 - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
               Version 1.00 - Last updated July 14, 1993

Compiled by Steve Frampton <[e-mail]> with help from
several contributors (listed at the end of this document, section "Q-15").

This document is copyright 1993 by Steve Frampton (on behalf of himself and
all the contributors) but is freely distributable to the benefit of
Caribana '93 and the West Indian communities in Toronto and surrounding
areas.

---===

Q-00. Do you have any legal disclaimers to get out of the way first?
Q-01. What the #&*$! took you so long to release this FAQ!?
Q-02. What the heck is "Caribana", anyway?
Q-03. When will Caribana '93 take place?
Q-04. What is the schedule of Caribana '93 events?
Q-05. Sounds great, now where can I purchase tickets?
Q-06. Can you recommend some nice and affordable accomodations?
Q-07. Which forms of transportation should I use to get around?
Q-08. What kind of musical styles (and who is playing!) will be featured?
Q-09. Where are some good places to get authentic West Indian food?
Q-10. Caribana aside, what are some good Caribbean clubs in the area?
Q-11. Which Caribbean radio stations can I listen to while I'm in Toronto?
Q-12. How can I get more information about this wonderful event?
Q-13. I'm too far away for Caribana -- do you know of any similar events?
Q-14. Any "Quotable Quotes" from past attendees you want to share?
Q-15. Who contributed to this FAQ document?
Q-16. In the perspicacious words of Janet Jackson, "Is that the end?"

---===

Q-00. Do you have any legal disclaimers to get out of the way first?

Neither myself (Steve Frampton) nor any of the contributors (listed at
the end of this document) shall be held liable for any damages caused by
the information (or mis-information, as the case may be) contained within
this document, including but not limited to, special, incidental,
consequential, or other damages.

Although every attempt has been made to ensure a reasonable degree of
accuracy is contained herein, this document has been prepared more as a
general guide and is not intended to be used as a definitive "bible" of
the events at large.  You are encouraged to contact any of the people
listed under section "Q-12" for more information on Caribana '93 before
making any plans.

In short, USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK.

---===

Q-01. What the #&*$! took you so long to release this FAQ!?

This is the first-ever release of the Caribana FAQ.  The information
gathering took a lot longer than I had expected, due not only to the
fact that Caribana planning seems to be delayed until the last minute,
but also due to my excessive procrastination.  :-)

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who kept in constant
contact with me to get this thing done, and also to apologize to the net
for the incessant delays in releasing this FAQ, as well as some of the
information being unavailable for inclusion.

Much of the information herein will hold true for future Caribana
events, so I'll be able to release this FAQ in coming years much earlier
than this one.  In short, we'll get it right for Caribana '94!  :-)

Thanks for your patience, and on behalf of myself and all who
contributed, good luck and have a blast at this year's Caribana!

---===

Q-02. What the heck is "Caribana", anyway?

Caribana is an annual event, founded 26 years ago by Toronto's Trinidadian
community as the Northern version of Trinidad's Carnival.  As Caribana
increased in popularity, other West Indian communities contributed to the
festivities, and recently the Latin and African communities joined in as
well.

During the last two and half decades, Caribana's popularity has been
increasing exponentially.  25 years ago it was a celebration of only a
few thousand.  Last year, Caribana celebrated it's 25th anniversity --
and over 2,000,000 people were in attendance to make it the most successful
year for Caribana so far.

According to a past member of the Caribana Cultural Committee, the Mardi
Gras in New Orleans had approximately 4,000,000 people attend in 1991.
At Caribana's current rate of growth, Caribana will surpass this famous
carnival within only a couple of years.

Caribana is the success it is because of the people who attend -- and they
come from all over the world, often to meet with family who are also in
attendance or living in the area.  A publication that was released for
Caribana '92 indicated that many people plan family reunions.  During past
years, people made plans to meet at specific street corners on the parade
route.  In 1991, however, the route was changed to follow the lake shore,
where there were no specific buildings or corners.  Luckily, some bright
individual noticed that each lamp post had unique code numbers affixed,
and the word went out that this would be an ideal method used for meeting
family and friends.

---===

Q-03. When will Caribana '93 take place?

Caribana is a two week period of events beginning in the latter part of
July, ending with a major blowout on the long weekend (Canadian Civic
holiday) at the beginning of August.

Although many people believe that Caribana is only a single weekend
consisting of the parade on Saturday and the island picnics on Sunday,
it is actually two weeks in length!  There are many events that are
held during this period, including the Junior Carnival, and the King &
Queen's Pageant to name only a couple.

---===

Q-04. What is the schedule of Caribana '93 events?

There are all kinds of parties and activities at Caribana that will take
place all around Toronto.  Here is the schedule and pricing information:

MONDAY, JULY 19, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM:  OFFICIAL FESTIVAL LAUNCH
Nathan Phillips Square, City Hall / Cost = FREE
Entertainment will include "Massive Chandelier", "Lady Pearl", "Pan
Fantasy Steelband", as well as "The Scarborough Caribbean Youth Dance
Ensemble".

FRIDAY, JULY 23, 7:30 PM - 11:30 PM:  WARM-UP PARTY
Nathan Phillips Square, City Hall / Cost = FREE
Entertainment includes "Massive Chandelier", "Moss International", "Lady
Pearl", "Elsworth James", "The Caribbean Folk Performers", "Metrotones
Steelband", "Brother Resistance", and the Rap and Step Dance winners
from a previous CCC event.

SUNDAY, JULY 25, 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM:  JUNIOR CARNIVAL
Lamport Stadium, 1155 King Street West
Cost = $12.00 adults, $5.00 seniors & children
(Competition of children's carnival costumes).
Entertainment includes "Tropical Youth Dancers", "Panatics Steel Band",
Rap-Off 1st runner-up, step dance, and D.J. Frankie, D.J. Lee.

MONDAY-FRIDAY, JULY 26-30, 7:30 PM - 11:30 PM:  SUNSET CRUISES
The Trillium / Cost = $25.00 adults (excluding bar & meals)
Cruise on Lake Ontario while you dance as the sun sets.  Board the ferry
at the foot of Bay Street.  Featuring Caribbean cuisine and a cash bar.
Entertainment varies depending on evening:  Monday is "Massive
Chandelier" and "D.J. Lee", Tuesday "Pelham Goddard & Charlies Roots"
and "D.J. Bad Lad", Wednesday "Atlantik" and "D.J. Bad Lad", Thursday
"Carribbean Traffic Jam" and "D.J. Frankie", and Friday is "Moss
International" and "D.J. Lee".

WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY, JULY 28-30, 12:00 PM - 4:00 AM:  CASINO CARIBANA
Regal Constellation Hotel, 900 Dixon Road / Cost = FREE
Casino gambling; $10.00 maximum bets (Rapid Blackjack up to $100), Las
Vegas style rules, professional dealers.

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 8:30 PM - 1:00 AM:  KING AND QUEEN OF THE BANDS
Lamport Stadium, 1155 King Street West
Cost = $15.00 adults, $5.00 seniors & children
A competition for the King, Queen & Individual of the bands.  Features
spectacular display of costumes, Caribbean cuisine.
Entertainment includes "Silhouettes Steelband", and "D.J. Bad Lad".

FRIDAY, JULY 30, 8:30 PM - 2:00 AM:  CARNIVAL DANCE
Toronto Airport Hilton, 5875 Airport Road / Cost = $25.00 adults only
Dance all night long to the music of "Pelham Goddard & Charles Roots",
"Brass Trazx", "D.J. Bad Lad".
Chance to win family accomodation for 4 nights at Caribana '94 at the
Toronto Airport Hilton (winner to be announced night of this event).

SATURDAY, JULY 31, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM:  CARIBANA PARADE
Exhibition Stadium, Lakeshore Blvd. West
Cost = $10.00 adults, $5.00 seniors & children, $26.00 family of four
The most well-known event of Caribana.  Thousands of masqueraders in
colourful costumes parade before panel of judges.  Dance to the
Caribbean's pulsating music, as the bands play west along the Lakeshore
to Parkside Drive.

SATURDAY, JULY 31, 8:30 PM - 2:00 AM:  CARIBANA 'LAS' LAP' DANCE
Delta Toronto Airport, 801 Dixon Road / Cost = $15.00 adults only
After the parade dance to the rhythms of "Shandu", and "D.J. Lee".

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1, 8:00 PM - 2:00 AM:  KAISOFEST
Skyline Hotel, 655 Dixon Road / Cost = $15.00 adults only
Featuring local Calypsonians, cash bar.

SUNDAY-MONDAY, AUGUST 1-2, 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM:
     OLYMPIC ISLAND CARIBBEAN MUSIC FESTIVAL
Take the ferry at the foot of Bay Street to Olympic Island
Cost each day = $15.00 adults, $5.00 seniors & children
This is a 2 day festival featuring Caribbean music, dances, craft
exhibitions, and Caribbean cuisine, as well as a beer garden.
Entertainment varies depending on day; on Sunday: "Atlantik", "Pelham
Goddard & Charles Roots", "Sparrow", "David Rudder", "United Sisters",
"Iwer George", "Anslem Douglas", "Show-Do-Man", "Triveni Brass", "Hit
Squad", "Jayson", "Jones & Jones", "Jackie James", "Chester Miller",
"Los Karachis", "Tommy Joseph", "Ballet Creole", "Afro Pan", and
"Protector".  On Monday: "Atlantik", "Second Imij", "Sparrow", "David
Rudder", "United Sisters", "Rikki Jai", "Anslem Douglas", "Instant Jam",
"Elsworth James", "Tabaruk", "Devon Irie", "Inspector Lenny", "Dance
Caribe", "Pan Fantasy", "Ramabai Espinet & Sudharshan", "Tommy Joseph",
"Protector", "Jones & Jones", "Military Force", "Simply Majestic", as
well as the Rap-off winner from a previous CCC event.

---===

Q-05. Sounds great, now where can I purchase tickets?

Tickets for any of the events can be purchased in any of the following
outlets:

* Toronto Central *

Caribana Carnival Shop                 Pizzazz Unlimited
& Main Ticket Outlet                   1266 Danforth Ave. (near Greenwood)
College Park, 444 Yonge St.            Toronto, Ontario
(at College Subway)                    [phone]
[phone]

The Official Caribana Store #1         The Bay, Queen St.
College Park, 444 Yonge St.            401 Bay Street
(inside mall)                          Toronto, Ontario  M5H 2Y4
[phone]                         [phone]

The Official Caribana Store #2         Rock Wells
301 Yonge St. @ Dundas St.             301 Yonge St.
Toronto, Ontario                       Toronto, Ontario  M5B 1R2
[phone]                         [phone]

* North Central *

Loxx Hair Design & Esthetics
4844A Yonge Street
(1 block north of Sheppard)
North York, Ontario
[phone]

* West *

Climax Records Promotions              Mr. Jerk
8 & 10 MacDonnell Ave.                 1552 Eglington Ave. W. @ Dufferin
(Queen & Lansdowne)                    Toronto, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario                       [phone]
[phone]

Elma's Spice Corner                    Nappy's
255 Dundas St. West, Unit 4A           267 Queen St. East
(Parker Hill Centre)                   Brampton, Ontario
[phone]                         [phone]

Fade II Black                          Nappy's
Main Mall Level                        20 Dundas St. East
140 King St. East                      Mississauga, Ontario
Hamilton, Ontario                      [phone]
[phone]

Northern Lights Records Tapes & Discs
3-1750 The Queensway, Suite 1329
Etobicoke, Ontario
[phone]

* East *

Mello Music                            Network Records
Liberty Square Plaza                   2918 Sheppard Ave. East
2388 Eglington Ave. East               (at Victoria Park Ave.)
Scarborough, Ontario                   North York, Ontario
[phone]                         [phone]

Mr. Jerk
3050 Don Mills Road
North York, Ontario
[phone]

---===

Q-06. Can you recommend some nice and affordable accomodations?

Accomodation can be tight, with most hotels usually being fully booked for
at least the final weekend.  Because of this, it is very important that you
make hotel reservations *well in advance*.

It cannot be stressed enough:  MAKE RESERVATIONS WELL IN ADVANCE!  It is
recommended you make reservations as much as 2 months in advance of your
intended stay.  (You'll of course be able to do this for Caribana '94
when this FAQ is released a *lot* earlier).

Another thing to consider is that generally accomodation rates raise for
the event.  Accomodation rates right in the downtown area can go as high
as $140 CDN per night.

Some good ideas to help keep accomodation costs down are to make plans to
stay with friends or relatives if possible, or perhaps find others who may
with to join you in sharing the cost of a room.

Another way to keep costs down is to stay in a hotel near the airport, or
even stay in Mississauga, Brampton, Oshawa, or any other of the cities
outside of Toronto.  This could save you plenty; and most of these areas
have reasonably efficient public transportation to take you back and forth
to Caribana.

If money isn't a big concern with you, then staying in downtown Toronto
is probably the best bet, as you would be within walking distance to many
of the events!

Below are a few places you may wish to consider for your accomodation
needs.  Prices should not be taken as absolute; they are more of a range
of prices you can expect.  You are recommended to contact any of the hotels
for actual prices.  Don't forget to inquire about weekend package deals.

Prices and phone numbers subject to change without notice.  If you find
an error in this FAQ document, please e-mail the correct information to
the FAQ maintainer.  In addition, if you can find it the e-mail address
of a particular hotel (if available) I would appreciate it if you can
pass the information on so it can be included here.

* Toronto Downtown *

BEST WESTERN PRIMROSE HOTEL - [phone] or FAX [phone]
111 Carlton Street          - Single $ 99-$129
Toronto                     - Double $109-$159

BOND PLACE HOTEL            - [phone]
65 Dundas Street East       - Single $ 59-$ 89
Toronto                     - Double $ 69-$109

CARLTON INN                 - [phone] or FAX [phone]
30 Carlton Street           - Double $ 69-$ 79
Toronto

HOLIDAY INN ON KING         - [phone]
370 King Street West        - $ 70-$124
Toronto

HOTEL IBIS                  - [phone] or FAX [phone]
240 Javis Street            - Single $ 94
Toronto                     - Double $109

HOTEL VICTORIA              - [phone] or FAX [phone]
56 Yonge Street             - Single $ 99-$120
Toronto                     - Double $114-$135

STRATHCONA HOTEL            - [phone] or FAX [phone]
60 York Street              - Single $ 59
Toronto                     - Double $ 69


* Toronto Airport *

Suggestions would be appreciated.


* Hotels Around Vicinity *

BROWNSTONE HOTEL            - [phone], [phone]
15 Charles Street East      - Single $ 90-$110
Yorkville                   - Double $100-$120

HOTEL SELBY                 - [phone] or FAX [phone]
592 Sherbourne Street       - Single $ 45-$ 55
Toronto                     - Double $ 55-$ 75

JOURNEY'S END               - [phone] or FAX [phone]
280 Bloor Street West       - Single $ 94
Yorkville                   - Double $109

VENTURE INN                 - [phone] or FAX [phone]
89 Avenue Road              - Single $ 89
Yorkville                   - Double $ 99


* Toronto North Vicinity *

ROEHAMPTON HOTEL            - [phone] or FAX [phone]
808 Mount Pleasant Road     - Single $ 85-$ 95
Toronto                     - Double $ 85-$ 95


* East North Vicinity *

THE SHERATON TORONTO EAST   - [phone] or FAX [phone]
2035 Kennedy Road           - Single $ 89-$135
Scarborough                 - Double $ 85-$160


* Pickering *

Suggestions would be appreciated.


* Mississauga *

Suggestions would be appreciated.


* Oshawa *

Suggestions would be appreciated.

---===

Q-07. Which forms of transportation should I use to get around?

Caribana events are held in locations all around Metro Toronto, and for
many of them, transportation is required.

During the day, you are strongly urged to take public transportation to
and from the various events.  Toronto is quite convenient as far as public
transportation is concerned, offering subway, bus, and streetcar to get
you where you want to go.  GO trains are also available to transport you
from some of the more distance areas (for example if you have arranged
accomodations in Oshawa).  All parking at GO stations is free, so a good
idea might be to drive to a GO station and take the train in.

In Metro Toronto, the subway system runs until ??:?? am, with the busses
running until ??:?? am.  This is pretty convenient, but if you're planning
to wind your waist well into the night, a car will probably be required.
Phone the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) at (416) 393-INFO for special
information on the Caribana route.

A word to the wise:  Do NOT drive a car on the final weekend (Saturday,
the day of the parade).  There will be *lots* of people in Toronto for
this event, and it is pretty sure that driving will be a headache and
parking will be a nightmare.

---===

Q-08. What kind of musical styles (and what bands!) will be featured?

If it has any relevance to the Caribbean, it will be featured.  Calypso,
rap, reggae, soca, even some dancehall will all be offered, whether at
Caribana or at any other of the great Caribbean clubs in the area.

By far, the best deal is to go to Nathan Phillips Square.  Everybody shows
up to perform, and it only costs about $15.  For more information on
this or any other musical event, see question "Q-04", schedule of events.

---===

Q-09. Where are some good places to get authentic West Indian food?

Good news!  West Indian food is in abundance at any time of the year in
Toronto, but even more so when Caribana comes to town.

You can find good West Indian restaurants with great food at reasonable
prices.  Toronto is an expensive city though, so the finer restaurants will
set you back a bit.  There are also many street vendors providing West
Indian delicacies at Caribana events.

Toronto is the city and Caribana is the event where you can act out all
your culinary fantasies!  Imagine if you will, curry goat with fried
dumplings.  How about some spicy beef roti, or perhaps some jerk chicken
to put fire in your eyes.  All the good restaurants and night clubs are
situated in a relatively small area, so they are all easy to get to.

Caribbean Restaurants/Cafes:

   The Real Jerk Pit
   ????

   Roti Palace
   Bathurst Street, about a block south of "Honest Ed's"

   Supreme Restaurant & Tavern          Michidean's Take Out
   1559 Eglinton Avenue West            758 Dovercourt Road
   Toronto                              Toronto
   Phone: [phone]                [phone]

   Ali's West Indian Roti Shop
   1446 Queen Street
   Toronto
   [phone]


Caribbean Grocery/Specialty Stores:

   Mr. $aver - Signature Plaza          Wire's Variety
   1366 Weston Road                     753 Dovercourt Road
   Toronto                              Toronto
   [phone]                       [phone]

   Danforth Variety/Fruit Market        Tower Fresh Fruit Market
   2742 Danforth Avenue                 10-12 Tower Drive
   Toronto                              Scarborough
   [phone]                       [phone]

   Caribbean Corner Variety
   1032 Brock Street, Unit 2
   Whitby
   [phone]

---===

Q-10. Caribana aside, what are some good Caribbean clubs in the area?

I was able to get names of the nicer clubs but unfortunately not the
addresses for the majority of them.  Look them up in the phone book if
you want to patronize them, hopefully I'll be able to include further
information next year.

- California Dreams, downtown Toronto, near Yonge & Bloor.

- Rockit, downtown Toronto, near Yonge & Bloor.

- Jaguar (Fridays & Sundays), downtown Toronto, near Yonge & Bloor.

- Vertigo, near Dufferin & Finch.

- Cutty's Hideaway in Scarborough, 538 Danforth Avenue, west of Carlaw.

- Crystal Palace, north-end of Toronto.

- Club Trinidad, downtown Toronto, around Church Avenue.  A favorite
hangout of many Torontonians, this 2-floor establishment seems to be
always featuring well-known calypso artists.

---===

Q-11. Which Caribbean radio stations can I listen to while I'm in Toronto?

The Canadian Radio Television Commission (CRTC) has not yet allowed the
establishment of a dance/black radio station in Toronto, so the station
of choice is an American station (WBLK 93.7 FM) in Buffalo, New York.

Another good choice would be a station based in St. Catherines, Ontario,
at 107.9 on your FM dial.  They offer a reggae/calypso show on Saturday
afternoons.

There is a student-run radio station (CKNL 88.1 FM) based at Ryerson
Polytechnical Institute.  They are mandated to follow an alternative
format so they do cater to a variety of different cultures.

Finally, another station of unknown origin has been discovered (105.?? FM)
which also caters to a variety of musical tastes.  They offer a reggae/
calypso program, usually on Sunday evenings.  The signal is fairly weak in
Toronto, however.

---===

Q-12. How can I get more information about this wonderful event?

I suggest, when you get to Toronto, pick up a copy of "Share" to find out
what is available.  Share is a West Indian community newspaper that is
distributed free and is available many places throughout Metro.

Official Contacts:

   Caribbean Cultural Committee
   171 Carlton Street, Suite 200
   Toronto, Ontario M5A 2K3
   [phone]    FAX [phone]

Or feel free to contact any of:

   Toronto Tourist Bureau/Board of Trade
   <address unknown>
   [phone]

   Afro-Caribbean Students' Association
   44 St. George Street
   Toronto, Ontario
   M5S 2E4

   Indo-Caribbean Students' Association
   University of Toronto
   12 Hart House Circle
   Toronto, Ontario
   M5S 1A1

Caribbean Student Associations (e-mail contacts):

   [e-mail]
   Sandra M. <[e-mail]>
   <more of these would be appreciated>

---===

Q-13. I'm too far away for Caribana -- do you know of any similar events?

The most famous event that is similar to Caribana (and in fact, Caribana
is *based* on this event) is called "Carnival" and is held annually in
Trinidad, around the time of Ash Wednesday.

Montreal has an event called "Carifete" which is similar to Caribana.  It
is held in the month of June(?), and ... [further information would be
appreciated].

This section could benefit from some further information.  :-)

---===

Q-14. Any "Quotable Quotes" from past attendees you want to share?

"For anyone stuck in Canada and unable to get any `regular' cultural
stuff, (as compared to New York City, for example), this is the *wildest*
time one can have." - Gerry George

"Must-see include the Brazillian float - Oh Gawd!!!!" - [ Unknown :-( ]

"Last year's Caribana was almost Trini style, of course there was the
Canadian conservatism and no whining and GRINDING." - Ian Murray

"Between the various concerts, picnics, dances and parades there was music
everywhere." - <[e-mail]>

If you have something to say about Caribana send it to the FAQ maintainer
(currently <[e-mail]>) and it will be considered for
inclusion herein.

---===

Q-15. Who contributed to this FAQ document?

This document would not have been possible without the generous and
informative contributions made by the following people:

     Calvin Henry-Cotnam <[e-mail]>
     Tricia "Trish-E" Graham <[e-mail]>
     Evelyn Walker <[e-mail]>

     George Chow <[e-mail]>
     Ian Murray <[e-mail]>
     [e-mail]
     Gerry George <[e-mail]>
     Patrice A. Simon <[e-mail]>

     ... apologies to anyone I forgot to mention ...

Mr. Henry-Cotnam stands out among the others, because not only did he
provide an enormous amount of information for this document, he has also
served on the Caribana Cultural Committee in past years and has volunteered
much of his time, helping to make Caribana a reality.

Ms. Graham also holds an honoured place in the above list, because she
provided a great deal of first-hand experience about Caribana as well as
information about many notable West Indian establishments in the Toronto
area.

Finally, Ms. Walker must be thanked for doing the legwork of finding out
accomodation information in Toronto and surrounding areas.

---===

Q-16. In the perspicacious words of Janet Jackson, "Is that the end?"

Yes it is.  Thank you for reading.

-----------
[12.] Can anyone give me some info on the rasta culture?

     Rastafarians

     {rah-stuh-far'-ee-uhnz}

          Rastafarians are members of a Jamaican messianic movement dating back
     to the 1930s; in 1974 they were estimated to number 20,000 in Jamaica.
     According to Rastafarian belief the only true God is the late Ethiopian
     emperor HAILE SELASSIE (originally known as Ras Tafari), and Ethiopia is
     the true Zion. Rastafarians claim that white Christian preachers and
     missionaries have perverted the Scriptures to conceal the fact that Adam
     and Jesus were black. Their rituals include the use of marijuana and the
     chanting of revivalist hymns. REGGAE music is the popular music of the
     movement. The Rastafarians, who stress black separatism, have exercised
     some political influence in Jamaica.

     Bibliography:
     Barrett, Leonard E., The Rastafarians: Sounds of Cultural Dissonance
     (1977); Sparrow, Bill, and Nicholas, Tracy, Rastafari: A Way of Life
     (1979).


   "In the beginning Jah created heaven and earth".

   This is what the the Bible says. Jah is the creator, Jah is God. Jah,
Jahova, Jehova, Jahve are just different spelling of the name of God.
   In the beginning of this century, a man called Marcus Mosiah Garvey
from Jamaica said "Look to Africa, where a black king shall be crowned". A
little after that, Ras Tafari Makonnen was crowned, and became the Emperor
of Ethiopa, His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I, King of Kings, Lord of
Lords, conquering Lion of the tribe of Judah, Elect of God.
   Marcus Garvey started an organization with the aim to help black people
in Babylon (the West World) cross river Jordan (the Atlantic Ocean) and go
back to Zion (which is not Israel, but all of Africa, especially
Ethiopia). People in Jamaica followed Marcus the prophet. This was the
beginning of the Rasta movement. Rasta is of course short for Ras Tafari,
the name of Haile Selassie.
   There is more to say, and I'm sure many others will add to and correct
what I have written.

Jah Love

Bo


[13.] Could anyone out there suggest to me any albums which combine reggae
      and jazz?

From: [e-mail] (dudley)

Just about every jazz/hip-hop fusion album has a couple of reggae
numbers.  Check out Us3, Arrested Development, or Dream Warriors.

Of course, if you aren't into get-down funky groovin' dance music,
you probably won't like the rest of the stuff on the albums.

dudley
.
From: [e-mail] (Mikey I)

    I would suggest some Dean Fraser, in particular "Taking Chances".

    Along these lines, there is an interesting snippet in the current issue
of The Beat about a sax player named Arturo Tappin and an album called "Strictly
Roots Jazz".  Anybody heard it?

                        EZ Noh,        mike


From: [e-mail] (Chico Khan)

I'd recommend Jamaican pianist Monty Alexander.  Check out his Chesky
release "Caribbean Circle".

Chico.

From: Kofi Apeagyei-Wiredu <[e-mail]>
John P. Stevenson@coral.


    try rico rodriguez.

From: [e-mail] (Jeff Ibsen)


    I'm a big fan of a hitherto neglected sub-genre of reggae that
    I call "instrumental reggae" This type of reggae generally is very
    horn-heavy and contains lots of solos. It is frequently also heavily
    dubbed, and often the 'straight' and dubbed versions of songs are
    both included on the same album. Some examples of albums which I
    consider to belong to this category are:

    Aggrovators Meet Revolutionaries: Side 1 is straight instrumental
    stuff, lots of horn solos, side 2 has dub versions of the songs
    on side 1

    Fatman Riddim Section Meets Downtown Horns: A great album with
    reggae versions of some well-known jazz standards.

    The Workers Speak To Their Slave Masters With STRIKE!: The best
    album title (and cover) in the known universe. I've never seen
    another copy of this one but it has great tunes, with titles
    like 'Better Working Conditions for Workers' and 'More Opportunity
    for Workers' Children'! A Studio 16/Winston Edwards production,
    all tracks played by the 'Well-Pack Band' Some tunes are dubbed
    versions.

    Count Ossie -:Tales of Mozambique: Not strictly instrumental,
    but lotsa horns and good soloing.

    Also, there is tons of early instrumental ska that contains
    extended soloing - anything by the Skatalites - Tommy McCook,
    Don Drummond, Roland Alphonso et. al. The jazz pianist George
    Shearing considered the late Don Drummond one of the best
    trombonists in the world.


    Jeff Ibsen

----------
[14.] Caribbean Clubs FAQ

           CARIBBEAN CLUBS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
               Version 1.01 - Last updated March 25, 1994

Compiled by Steve Frampton <[e-mail]> with help from
several contributors (listed at the end of this document, section "S-06").

This document is copyright 1994 by Steve Frampton (on behalf of himself and
all the contributors) but is freely distributable to the benefit of
lovers of Caribbean culture world-wide.

---===

S-00. Legal disclaimers and important information.
S-01. Caribbean restaurants in the United States and Canada.
S-02. Caribbean restaurants in other parts of the world.
S-03. Caribbean (music) clubs in the United States and Canada.
S-04. Caribbean (music) clubs in other parts of the world.
S-05. Notable future (next 6 months) live performances in clubs world-wide.
S-06. List of contributers to this FAQ document.
S-07. Where to send your club FAQ submissions to.
S-08. And so endeth this document.

---===

S-00. Legal disclaimers and important information.

Neither myself (Steve Frampton) nor any of the contributors (listed at
the end of this document) shall be held liable for any damages caused by
the information (or mis-information, as the case may be) contained within
this document, including but not limited to, special, incidental,
consequential, or other damages.

It would not be possible to guarantee a 100% degree of accuracy for the
establishments listed herein.  These clubs and restaurants are bound to
move, shut down, change prices or hours, etc. without notice.  A
telephone call made first before paying a visit may prevent considerable
inconvenience and aggravation.

In short, USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK.

---===

S-01. Caribbean restaurants in the United States and Canada.

This section includes full restaurants which MAY or MAY NOT have clubs.

UNITED STATES:

"Caribee Dance Center"  14th & Webster Streets, Oakland, CA
Phone: [phone]
Features:  Small cafe-type operation with all cooking done off-site is
open Wed-Sat nights with limited menu (curry goat, jerk chicken, escovitch
fish, and Veggie Curry, etc.)  Club open Wednesday to Saturday, and
sometimes on Sunday 9:00pm-1:00am, with reggae, dancehall, and one
salsa/latin night.  Live bands occasionally.  Alcohol available but club
is equally friendly towards non-drinkers with a wide variety of
non-alcoholic beverages.
Cover: $5 Wed, $5-$8 Thu-Sat.

"Caribbean Experience"   2897 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Great food, bar, dance floor, experience

"Dr Bird Inc"           842 Delevan Avenue, Buffalo, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Food, groceries (ie, not a club)

"Nagasaki's Restaurant & Nightclub"     276 Fulton Ave., Hempstead, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Restaurant daily, featuring West Indian and Asian dishes,
reasonably priced, good eating atmosphere.  Weekends club featuring
mainly dancehall, reggae and soca, with some r&b, hip-hop, etc.,
Club Cover - Friday:   men free before 9pm, ladies free b/f 10pm
                       $5 until 12am, $10 after
           - Saturday: $5 b/f midnight, $15 after

---===

S-02. Caribbean restaurants in other parts of the world.

This section includes full restaurants which MAY or MAY NOT have clubs.

Submissions would be appreciated.

---===

S-03. Caribbean (music) clubs in the United States and Canada.

This section includes full dance clubs, which MAY or MAY NOT serve
limited food items.

UNITED STATES:

"Alberto's"             736 W. Dana Street, Mountain View, CA
Phone: [phone]
Features: Dance club specializing in live dance music of all types; styles
include Reggae, Latin, Brazilian, Soca, Calypso, Tango, Cajun.  Many shows
include free dance lessons.
Cover: from $4 to $10.


"Western Front"        Western Ave. & Putnam St., Cambridge, MA
Phone: n/a
Features: Styles include reggae, calypso, soca, etc.  Live performances
most nights - gets both local talent, regional bands, and sometimes bigger
name musicians like Eeek-a-Mouse and Mutaburuka.  Friendly, laid back,
nice atmosphere.
Cover: from $10 to $20


"Club Eclipse"          247 Fabyan Place, Newark, NJ
Phone: [phone]
Features: reggae, dancehall, a small amount of soca, etc.
Cover: $10


"Club Illusion"         103 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: mostly Jamaican music, dancehall, reggae, etc.  Very popular.
Cover: n/a


"Tilden Hall"           Tilden Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: a variety of DJ's
Cover: n/a


"Callalloo II"          ** address unknown **, Brooklyn, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: lots of Trinidadians, food also available
Cover: n/a


"Starlight Ballroom"    4016 Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: Nightclub weekends, featuring dancehall, reggae and soca, r&b,
hip-hop, house, etc.  Performers & sound systems occasionally


"Club SOB's"            Varick & Houston, Manhattan, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: always have live music, sometimes Caribbean performers such as
Mighty Sparrow or reggae music, etc.
Cover: depending on performance, $12 or more.


"China Club"            Broadway, between 74th & 75th, Manhattan, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Nightclub, Wednesday thru Sunday with dancehall, reggae and soca,
r&b, hip-hop, house, etc.  Performers frequently; local radio stations
(either WRKS or WBLS) broadcast from the club weekly.
Sundays: Sheek Sundays - "for mature reggae crowds" (23 & over) -
                       - $5 b/f midnight, $10 after


"The Arena"             24th Street between 5th & 6th Ave., Manhattan, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: Nightclub weekends, two floors of music:  1st floor - calypso & soca
2nd floor - dancehall & reggae, Fridays for the afterwork crowd


"Bentley's"             40th Street & Madison Avenue, Manhattan, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: Nightclub Friday & Saturday, two floors of music - 1st floor: r&b,
hip-hop, house, etc.  2nd floor: reggae, soca, dancehall, etc.  Local radio
station WBLS broadcasts from here every Saturday.  Performers occasionally.
Cover: from $10 to $15


"Club Harambe"          127 W. 43rd Street., Manhattan, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Nightclub weekends, featuring dancehall, reggae and soca, plus
some r&b, hip-hop, house, etc.


"Club S.I.B.'s"         92-32 Union Hall St., Queens, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Nightclub weekends, featuring dancehall, reggae and soca, r&b,
hip-hop, house, etc.,
Cover: from $5 to $15; After work Wednesdays - $5


"Krystal's"             Hillside & Merrick Avenues, Queens, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: Nightclub weekends, featuring dancehall, reggae and soca, plus
some r&b, hip-hop, house, etc.  Performers frequently; Music (normally)
by Sting International
Cover: from $10 to $15 Friday & Saturday, $1 Sunday (yes, $1!!)


"Cue (Q?) Club"         93-37 150 Street, Queens, NY
Phone: n/a
Features: Nightclub weekends, featuring dancehall, reggae and soca, r&b,
hip-hop, etc.  Performers frequently; sound systems occasionally
Cover: Ladies $1 b/f midnight, $10 - $15 otherwise


"Infinity"              3878 Bay Boulevard, Queens, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Nightclub Friday & Saturday, featuring dancehall, reggae and soca,
r&b, hip-hop, etc.  Local radio broadcasts from here occasionally.


"Trafalgar Square"      91-12 144th Place Archer Ave., Queens, NY
Phone: [phone]
Features: Nightclub Wednesdays, featuring mostly dancehall, reggae, and
soca, in the V.I.P. Louge, and on most weekends featuring dancehall, reggae
and soca, r&b, hip-hop, house, etc.  Performers frequently



CANADA:

"Rockit"                120 Church Street, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
Phone: [phone]
Featuring: Dancehall music, drinks


"Opera House"           735 Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
Phone: [phone]
Featuring: Dancehall music, drinks


"St. Lawrence Market"   92 Front Street East, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
Phone: [phone] or [phone]
Featuring: Dancehall music, drinks


"Twilight Zone"         491 College Street, Toronto, Ontario CANADA
Phone: n/a
Featuring: Dancehall music, drinks


"Phoenix"               Sherbourne & Carlton Ave., Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
Phone: n/a
Featuring: Dancehall music, drinks


"Limelight"             250 Adelaide Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
Phone: n/a
Featuring: Dancehall music, drinks

"Tropicana"             686 Princess Street, Kingston, Ontario, CANADA
Phone: [phone]
Featuring: Mostly soca, latin, some dancehall.  Sometimes live calypso bands,
usually from Toronto.  Some light, simple foods are available.

---===

S-04. Caribbean (music) clubs in other parts of the world.

This section includes full dance clubs, which MAY or MAY NOT serve
limited food items.

"Rastatoo"              La Gasca 120, Madrid, SPAIN
Phone: n/a
Features: Roots and some Dancehall style, reggae videos from live concerts
and interviews.
Cover charge: Usually none.

---===

S-05. Notable future (next 6 months) live performances in clubs world-wide.

This section lists NOTABLE (ie. big-name) live performances in clubs
world-wide for the period from March 1, 1994 until August 31, 1994.

Submissions would be appreciated.

---===

S-06. List of contributers to this FAQ document.

This document would not have been possible if the following people
hadn't taken the time to submit club information:

     Calvin and Donnia Henry-Cotnam <[e-mail]>
     Tricia "Trish-E" Graham <[e-mail]>
     Evelyn Walker <[e-mail]>
     George Chow <[e-mail]>
     Ian Murray <[e-mail]>
     Albertos <[e-mail]>
     <[e-mail]>
     Raun Kupiec  <[e-mail]>
     Barbara Caramba-Coker <[e-mail]>
     Gerry George <[e-mail]>
     Patrice A. Simon <[e-mail]>
     Jeffrey R. Meade <[e-mail]>
     Borja Larrumbide Martinez <[e-mail]>
     Dudley Gaman <[e-mail]>
     George Elkins <[e-mail]>

     ... apologies to anyone I forgot to mention ...

---===

S-07. Where to send your club FAQ submissions to.

If you have some club information you would like to see listed in the
FAQ, you may send your submission to:  <[e-mail]>.

Please try and stick to the format used in this FAQ, it makes for easier
editing.  Too much information, and you risk being severely edited, and
too little and you aren't helping us.  :-)

---===

S-08. And so endeth this document.

Please send in some club information!

------------------------------------------------------------

Steve Frampton        E-mail: <[e-mail]>
----------