Montego Bay, Jamaica – The unique rhythm of Jamaica will blend musically with the rich pulse of New Orleans as the island’s best and Louisiana’s finest musicians join forces for the Rhythm and Spice Festival in Montego Bay, November 3 – 6, 2005.
Grammy Award winning ‘Reggae Ambassadors’ Third World headlines the six Jamaican bands that will breathe musical energy into the tourism capital, while renowned cultural ambassador and trumpeter Irvin Mayfield and Kermit Ruffins leads the likes of New Orleans’ style brass funk ensemble ‘Big Sam’S Funky Nation’ and the culturally loaded Mardi Gras Indians.
The other bands billed to take over the western Jamaican city are C-Sharp, Ice and Fire, Live Wyya, Roots Underground, Scotch, the Rebirth Brass Band and Tricia ‘Sista Tweety’ Boutte.
The bands from the birthplace of Jazz and the streets and clubs of the Big Easy will alternate with the Jamaicans delivering a combination of Cajun, blues, Zydeco and traditional and modern jazz on the grounds of the Montego Bay Cruise Ship Terminal.
“The audience can expect an incredible menu of musical styles depicting the very best of Jamaica and New Orleans,” said the event’s co-ordinator Richard ‘Fullaideas’ Lue.
Lue, a successful businessman with a history of involvement in many major events both locally and abroad, noted that the fusion of the two nation’s harmonies will highlight day two of the festival.
The exciting three-day Rhythm and Spice Festival kicks off officially on Friday, November 4, with the white gloved, white clothing, tikki torches, celebrity chef cook-off competition on the grounds of the world famous Doctor’s Cave Beach.
International celebrated Chef, Jamaica’s own Norma Shirley and Coral Cliff’s Bernard ‘Pepper’ Morrison are confirmed for this segment of the event. The two will be joined by three of New Orleans culinary masters.
Rhythm and Spice is a production of Montego Bay businessman Horace Peterkin and New Orleans artist, Bernardo Wade.
Proceeds from the event will go towards the mayors rebuild New Orleans fund with emphasis on arts and entertainment and the Aids Hospice in St. James, Jamaica.
