Welcome to the IslandPRIDE family

BEACHHOUSE - The Review

2011-03-16T09:08:00.001-07:00

TICKET COLLECTION
A few of my colleagues may no doubt submit a separate review or posibly comment so I wont spend too much time here on it. I will simply say that Trinidad Fete Tickets will have a HARD TIME redeeming themselves in the future after the fiasco this year and their unprofessionalism with offering a resolve. I know they won't be getting my money again! I was fortunate to have my tickets reserved at the Beach House location in Trinidad when I first learnt of the TFT fiasco and I collected on time as stipulated in my email to the Beach House committee. I collected my tickets and began to notify my colleagues who had requested tickets through me that their quota was CUT by a significant amount and that had to do with the overall Beach House Management situation.

BEACH HOUSE - THE COMMUTE
There was unnecessary traffic on the road to Beach House, the highway was cool smooth sailing but as you get to the turn-off for Beachhouse, traffic ensued. Kudos to the ever so reliable and present Beach House signs.

BEACH HOUSE - THE FETE
Arriving at the venue around the same time in 2010 proved to be futile. The crowd at this point (2:30pm - 2:45PM) was at capacity in my opinion. Beach House was PACKED!!! The lines at the bar could be seen as soon as you clear the hill to enter the venue and the lines for the food, deceiving at first BUT EVER PRESENT once you got closer. The menu while it definitely was different from 2010 was tasty and the service was patient and courteous but also vigilant and made sure you got "just enough". Now let me clarify, just so that its not ALL disconcerting - rewind to 2010, enter Beach House, everyone dressed casual but certainly styled to the max, the bar service GREAT and the food lines, non-existent. WHY?, mainly because everything at Beach House in 2010 was buffet style and while you had to line up, the lines were not as bad as they were this year.

Now in events leading up to Beach House 2011 one could assimilate that overcrowding was going to be an issue, BEACH HOUSE 2011 certainly bypassed ISSUE status, it passed it on the Uriah Butler Highway. This event had gone to the dogs! And they were feeding you as such too. One trip to the "appetizer" line to walk out with a hulking piece of wild meat on your plate so big it couldn't hold anything else. And its the prettiest chicks you seeing walking out with these monstrous "appetizers". I know I wont have to tell you about the couple fights that broke out in "said" area in "said" line. You will no doubt know the reason: of course "miss thing" will choose to wait till she reach in front the WHOLE LINE to text she pals to tell them she reach in front and then them swarm in... Well the Brooklyn posse was not having that and they got REAL FLATBUSH ON THEM REAL FAST!!!!

The bathrooms were nice and neat as it always is, we could have done without the million cans of after shave that was stacked next to the pipes. I mean come on, shaving cream? Really?

Fast forward to the music which was sweet and the overall ambience of the night which was sobering at best I know I wont rate Beach House this year because had management been able to exercise the control they wanted to - it would have turned out into another wonderful fete. Beach House to you I say DONT CHANGE THE 2010 FORMULA, and pay particularly close attention to those who support you in 2012 because THEY will be your stalwarts! Your hiccup this year is only a growing pain, but alas, there will be those who wont easily forgive you - after all $800TT converted to ANY CURRENCY is a lot to ask of people to put up with sub-par service and broken promises....

SHADES - The Review

2011-03-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Given that everyone opted to go to the more traditional Carnival Saturday fetes such as Insomnia, Vale, SSU etc I opted to try something new (for me) from a group of promoters that have been impressing me with their caliber of customer service, execution of product and overall customer aquisition and retention practices. The Misty Ridge Crew does this VERY WELL and their parties are some of the best that I have been to!

SHADES was the perfect party to begin what would be an EPIC Trinidad Carnival experience. Set on the Hololo (sp?) Ranch in Santa Cruz, the drive was certainly a nice one in the wee hours of the morning to make the 4am starting time. I can tell you that you would welcome this drive at this hour considering that you could be stuck in traffic going to Insomnia or struggling for a parking spot headed to Vale. I have been to both of these events and can tell you that SHADES trumps them both BAR NONE!

The parking situation when we arrived was smooth, attendants directed you to your spot and made sure that you were aligned properly for easy (or early) exits if need be - they made sure they asked if you intended to stay for the entire fete or if you think you may have to leave. This was a very smart move because this made way for easy flowing traffic both to get in and out of the venue! Kudos to them!

Reaching the party at exactly 4am (yes I am an early bird at a $450 price tag) I was pleasantly surprised to hear the welcome call by the DJ (who is pictured below) who made sure that we were indeed present to answer the call and begin jamming to his rhythmic sounds. Now let it be known that at $450 I expected a late start, DJ setting up late and food not ready - BOY WAS I SURPRISED!! Beachhouse could take a NOTEPAD on this fete! EVERYTHING (EVERY SINGLE THING) was ready at 4am and follow up to ensure freshness (i.e extra batter for the omelettes, freshly cut replacement condiments and even staff to replace the potty people in the bathroom was on hand)

Now let me say this! And this may gross some people out but what the hell its a BLOG - we share!! You SHOULD ALWAYS GO A FETE WHERE YOU COULD TAKE A PROPER SHIT! And that means that no-one likes to party clenching dey bottom and we all know that even the best of us no matter how hard we try to "go" before we leave the house, it never quite happens that way all of the time. For me, SHADES was that fete! - I got up promptly at 3:15am and began to do meh prance to ensure that before I leave the house I will use de bathroom, therefore, I could consume all de alcohol and food that SHADES had to offer and most likely, by the time I have to "go" again it would be time to go home. I mean we all know this ritual - let's not be coy. THAT WAS NOT THE CASE! I mean I know I had to "go" but it just was not "coming out" and I WAS NOT about to miss meh ride to Santa Cruz HELL NAW!!! - So off I go get dressed and discretely placed my wipes in meh back pocket because I know I will want to "go" when ah "reach"!!!!

Fast forward to me reaching the secluded venue of SHADES and what a change from MISTY RIDGE (all de smoke gone) is now lights in yuh tail!! Ah wine as soon as I reached - I was ready - especially after that DJ welcome call. I climbed the stairs and entered the fete and found meh spot!! Feeling a lil hungry I went over to the food offerings for the day - again expecting to be routed in a chain of lines like I am at a local bank, I was pleasantly surprised to see that non existed and the food was buffet style! What a sight: Bake and Shark WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS, Sada Roti, Fresh Fruit, Custom Made Omelettes, the list went on and on and I certainly didn't have time to complete the list because of ALL TIMES NOW I HAVE TO .... (right)!

Gone to the bathroom now I expecting to have to well choose meh potty correctly and toilet paper down de seat etc etc - well ah still do that yuh know but here's the difference, you know when you open the toilet you does prepare for dat stench so yuh hold yuh nose and then enter? - I still do that BUT I didnt have to hold for long - Once I inhale fresh lavender inside that potty I knew I was about to take AH PROPER ONE - hear nah SHIT JUST FLOWED!!!! (Pun very well intended) I send about three text messages, check meh facebook status, wine to de side on de toilet, wipe de sweat off meh head (yea dais how good it was) and THEN I arise from meh portable THRONE for 20 minutes... YES 20 minutes - ah tell yuh I had AH PROPER ONE!! So meanwhile I thinking "lawd, it would not have nobody outside so everybody go know is me who toots?" NAH - none ah dat!! SHADES potty posse was seen and heard opening all de stalls refreshing it - throwing ammonia and making sure its clean for the next deserving client! And that my friends ALONE will get my money EVERY YEAR!!! I take ah proper one and I was rhell happy after that - AH WINE LOW!!!!

Talking about wining now - when ah reach back, ah give meh friends de joke but I talk about it so much now dem want to shit too!! STEUPSE I tell yuh never see come see but when yuh have to go - yuh have to go!!!

The music at this point (9am) SWEET!!! SUN come out with a vengeance that I simply could not contain mehself, I had to submit to "de ice block" after the man wash off de ice from dem other mouths I proceeded to have my fair share of shots! That only RAISED my temperature higher!!! - Now I was sweating profusely and music still jamming... Praise God for the water hose they brought out... At this point PRPS Jeans, Custom Y3 sneakers and Vintage PUCCI TShirt OUT DE WINDOW - I WAS HOT!!! And I needed to be cooled... I take off all them clothes and jump in de ppl POOL... Yes ever so stoosh Daryl was in de ppl pool - PAPARAZZI HEAVEN!!! But at last I was cool...

Conclusion - SHADES was one of the best fetes I was at for Trinidad Carnival 2011. It was very well planned and lived up to every expectation and more that I had in mind. I was entirely pleased and so was everyone I came with. It is now a staple in my carnival itenerary and to the promoters I say - DO NOT CHANGE THE FORMULA - It is fully endorsed... WE LIKE IT!!!! (Enjoy the pics, courtesy Triniscene and feel free to comment!)

Honorable Mention:
Corn Soup Lady - BEST Ive had in a long time! She tell meh de secret is pimento seasoning!
Potty Posse - For obvious reasons disclosed above
BAR STAFF- Wait I didn't review them, but you know I had to be properly well drunk to do half de shit I do at Shades so there you go!

SUTRA 2010

2010-06-30T08:21:00.001-07:00

SUTRA is the embodiment of chic and sexy, epitomized by the best music, ambiance, treats and more... Wont you come and be a part of our Signature Event?

DETAILS ....
UNITY SPORTS AND CULTURAL CLUB
10 DUNBAR AVENUE, DORCHESTER MA
10pm until

DJ's: CLARITY HOUSE; CHOSEN ONE and SOUND INC.

2010 Presentation: PHANTASM - Do you BELIEVE your EYES

2010-06-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

EXCLUSIVE 1

SPECTRE

IGNIS FATUUS CLOSEUP

SHANGRI-LA

EXCLUSIVE 2

IGNIS FATUUS

HALLUCINATION

PRICING

Deposit of $50 due - No deadline
HALLUCINATION - Backline - $180
HALLUCINATION - Frontline (as shown above) - $200

CHIMERA - Purple and Teal peacock - $250
SPECTRE - Tribal multicolored - $200

SHANGRA LA - Turquoise with iridescent rhinestones - $250

$75 Deposit DUE BY July 15th,2010
IGNIS FATUUS - Beaded section - $300 without Collar
IGNIS FATUUS - Beaded section - $350 with Collar (as shown)

$100 Deposit DUE BY July 15th, 2010
EXCLUSIVE 1 - Tribal Framed headpiece (as shown)- $450
EXCLUSIVE 2 - Purple and Pink - $300 without Collar (as shown)
$400 with Collar (not shown)

SNEEK PEEKPHANTASM ~ Do you Believe Your Eyes!

2010-06-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

Come see a sneek peek of our 2010 presentation on Sunday, June 20th at the all inclusive band launching at Unity Sports and Cultural Club, 10 Dunbar Ave, Dorchester MA 02124, 4 - 10 PM. Adults $7, Kids $5

BRING YOUR CHECK BOOKS AND REGISTER THIS SUNDAY

Mark your calendars:
Mas camp opens - June 28
Sutra (IslandPRIDE band party) - July 17 @ Unity
Band Launch - weekend of July 24

more details to come

For more information email islandprideinc@hotmail.com

BUNJI!

2010-02-21T20:47:00.001-08:00

Bunji Garlin - BRAVE (Official Music Video) from ForceFed Blog on Vimeo.

PALANCE!!

2010-02-21T20:42:00.000-08:00

Palance - JW and Blaze from ForceFed Blog on Vimeo.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to all ~ Islandpride's 2010 Section outlines and expected dates

2010-01-05T09:39:00.000-08:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS
As we get ready to begin a new year packed with many unexpected travels, chance encounters and unmentionable carnival behavior (wink) - we at Islandpride would like to share with you some exciting news regarding our 2010 presentation.

2010 PRESENTATION
Phantasm ~ Do you Believe Your Eyes

SECTIONS
Hallucination - Plum/ Black/ Iridescent Mauve
Spectre - Silver/ Heather Grey/ White/ Diamante elements
Ignis Fatuus - Green/ Lime/ Pink/ Purple
Chimera - Hot Pink/ Frost/ Purple/ Orange
Atlantis - The Fool's Paradise - FRONTLINE ONLY (Unannounced Colors)

PRICES
Regular $200 Frontline: $250 Frontline (w boots): $300
Bustier options available in ALL sections and START at $250
NOTE: For Atlantis please send an email to coxdaryl@hotmail.com

SNEEK PEEK
Sunday June 20th, 2010

SUTRA (Band Party)
Saturday July 17th, 2010

BANDLAUNCHING
Saturday July 24th, 2010

And if you still want more .... EEEN DE MAS is coming so prepare your MASK...

Events with a different vibe and feel are what WE are all about ... So come and experience Islandpride this year as we ask you if YOU BELIEVE YOUR EYES.....

Ipride's 2010 Carnival them REVEALED!

2009-10-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

Boston Carnival VIDEO

2009-09-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,
I know that Boston Carnival is a distant memory and Islandpride is gearing up for MIAMI carnival 2009 where we will be wining down the road with WYLDNESS 2009 (http://www.wyldness.com) but check out a video of Ipride coming down the road in the unpleasant Boston 2009 weather looking GREAT in costumes that looked fabulous rain or shine... Looking forward to seeing you guys in Miami...

CREDITS: Karlranks

And in case you missed the LAUNCH video - here you go...

CREDITS: Rosebaby1182 - thanks!

Islandpride at SHINE

2009-09-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

I know its been a while and it seems like the blog is suffering, but we have been so busy with our Islandpride experience that it seems like even Lolita has been sleeping on reminding us all to keep up!!! We seriously need some fairy dust to keep us active. The beat goes on!

Attached are some pics of Islandpride Statement pieces at signature costumes at Shine which was the first annual indoor after Carnival cool down fete and it was the first to many more to come. Islandpride was crowned the People's Choice Band of the Year and although Boston Carnival was rained out - these pictured Islandpriders sure did show up and have a BLAST!!!

Our 2009 Sections - Click Images for a Larger View

2009-07-10T09:23:00.001-07:00

Pitch Black: The Whimsical Edition!!!!

2009-07-06T11:33:00.000-07:00

The Official Count Down has begun, 6 days until you experience the Most talked about Annual All Black Affair named Pitch Black 09' The Whimsical Edition!!!! July 11, 2009 at Mosley on the Charles, 50 Bridge Street, Dedham!! New venue, Same vibes!! Party starts at 8:00pm and goes til 1:00am. So people come out early to enjoy all that we have in store for you this time around!!

Prepare to be musically entertained by: The Chosen One, Clarity House w/ Gary Banton & Big Trini, Sound Vibration, DJ Chubby Chubb, Evolution Sound, DJ Freeze, Love TKO & DJ Glen from Washington, DC!!

Two Floors of non stop jamming. One floor strictly back in times music!!!

Fully Air-Conditioned Venue & Reduced Prices on all Drinks!!

Ticket Locations & Additional Information:

Fresh Start Hair Salon-Washington St, Dorchester:617-825-6027

Saint's Diner-Washington St, Dorchester:617-288-3555

T.K.O.:617-265-8911

Scoops:617-224-2536

Trendsetters Hotline:508-333-5859

ERS (Engine Room Section/Mud Band) Band Launching review

2009-07-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

So this past Sunday, Island Pride was ever so present at the annual ERS band launching. This band launching is 'the' band launching to kick off the Boston Carnival season. I arrived around 7:30pm and immediately made my way through the growing crowd to find a spot with my fellow Island Priders. I find this band launching to be one of the best not only because of the vibes, which are very reminiscent of a New York backyard lime but also because of the venue (yard) where it is held and the organisation of the event itself.

After a couple of drinks I was well enjoying myself especially when Island Pride's official road DJ, The Chosen One, came on and really livened up the place. My only complaint would be the actual displaying of the the 'costumes- so to speak.' It was really difficult to actually see the presentation but I appreciate the fact that the people displaying the costumes were kind enough to make their way through the crowd a couple of times. In any case, since this is mud mas, people were more so there for the lime as opposed to the viewing of the mas. Everything finished up around 10:30 and I was pleased that I did make the effort to come out because it was worth it.

Also, speaking of big band launches, don't forget to check out Island Pride's bandlaunch on Saturday July 18th!! It will be taking place on Dunbar Avenue, across the street from Unity. The time is from 4:00pm-9:00pm!! Once we dazzle you with our 2009 Presentation-Let the Beauties Unfold we will be heading right over to Unity to continue the fun and excitement with our event being held that same night called Sutra-Dare to Stare so mark your calendars and prepare to spend your evening and night with Island Pride!!

EEEN de MAS - August 7th, 2009

2009-07-06T08:06:00.000-07:00

Boston prepare yourself for the newest fete concept to hit the Boston fete scene. Join us as we present 'Eeen de Mas' IslandPride's first 'official' signature event!!

For those of you that are familiar with the band, you know that we like to do things differently, and this will be no exception. And for those of you that are unfamiliar with us and are curious to see what we are all about, please use this opportunity to come check us out for a night to remember. Not only do we plan to tantalize the senses with blazing music and a unique party atmosphere but we also plan to tease you with a taste of what is in store for Island Pride Masqueraders this Boston Carnival 2K9.

Beauties will begin to unfold this June, will you be there to witness it!!:'Eeen De Mas'

DATE: August 7, 2009
PLACE: William E. Reed Auditorium/Prince Hall
Time: 10pm-2am

2009-06-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

As an addendum to the previous post, here are the professional pictures from the photo shoot. Big thanks to all of the models who did their thing to make these photos a success!! More to be added...

IslandPRIDE 2K9-Initial Debut at the All band Inclusive Launch!!!

2009-06-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

Sundari

Finally, we have begun to let the beauties unfold this past Sunday at Unity Sports and Cultural Center. First, we would like to thank CACAB and all those who made this bandlaunch possible as it is a great opportunity for the bands to showcase their costumes earlier on in the carnival season. Secondly, we want to thank all those who came out to support and show their love for not just 'their' particular band but also for Boston Carnival as a whole.

A great time seemed to be had by all and the response to our presentation was overwhelming. We are humbled by all the love that was shown and we look forward to showing you even more at the IslandPride official bandlaunching on July 18th. Stay tuned for more info regarding that and Sutra-IslandPRIDE's first official signature event directly following the bandlaunching at Unity the same night. Remember you can check us out on facebook and myspace as well, tagline: Islandpride. The mascamp opens on June 27th
Below you will see pics from Sunday's event...Enjoy!!!

Tasanee

Bahira

Mehila

Akila

Are you ready for a taste of IslandPRIDE? Check us out this Sunday!

2009-06-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

The Bandleaders of Boston & The Caribbean American Carnival Association (CACAB) is hosting an All Inclusive Band Launching on Sunday, June 14, 2009 at Unity Sports & Cultural Club, 10 Dunbar Ave, Dorchester MA from 3 – 10 p.m.

IslandPRIDE will be giving you a taste of our 2009 presentation "Let the Beauties Unfold"

Bands on display are IslandPRIDE, D’Midas, D’Horizon, Dynasty, Soca & Associates, Mas Players

Admission Fee: $7 Adults, $4 children

See you there!

Congrats to ALL SPICE

2009-05-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

The IslandPRIDE crew would like to congratulate ALL SPICE on their first band launching. If you didn’t know ALL SPICE led by Curtis Eustace is the new band on the scene for Caribana.

The costumes are HOT and four of the sections were designed by Designing Daryl. Check out the pics on toronto lime

Wait until you see what IslandPRIDE have in store for Boston Carnival, we coming hard for 2009!

I hope the IslandPRIDERS are ready to LET THEIR BEAUTIES UNFOLD!!

Be the first to see our designs for Boston Carnival 2009, purchase your exclusive ticket to the DARE to STARE sneek peek NOW – SPACE is LIMITED!

LOLITA is getting ON MY NERVES!

2009-05-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

What is the meaning of this?

EEEN DE MAS

2009-04-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

Carnivals Around the Globe

2009-03-25T11:44:00.000-07:00

So, I know that all true carnival junkies (myself included) try to make it to other carnivals/festivals around the globe besides Trinidad carnival. How important is it to you and are there always certain carnivals that you have to attend or aspire to attend at one point in time in your life? In my case, I find myself trying to fore go particular carnivals every year and yet every year, around the same time, I start planning my next carnival jaunt. Crop over, it seems, has become my 'Summer Trinidad Carnival' as I like to tell people. This will be my 5th consecutive year that I will be in attendance and for the life of me I can't seem to give it up and although it shouldn't be compared to Trinidad carnival it still holds a special place in my heart and carnival schedule!! I know for others the same might be said for Toronto, Miami, New York, etc. I can't really pin point when this expensive hobby began but it seems like an insatiable addiction now which I will EVENTUALLY need to seek therapy for but until then I will just continue to go with the flow and hope that I am not the only one who experiences this carnival affliction!!! :)

IPRIDE Loyalty PERK

2009-03-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

SIGN UP BY EMAILING islandprideinc@hotmail.com

Since all of IslandPRIDE will be letting our BEAUTIES UNFOLD on the streets of Boston for Carnival 2009, we would like to mention that we have a special PROMOTION for a selected few this year. We know that everyone will try to get in, but as you know Islandpride is all about being Exclusive on the road and truly just about having a good time once you are offically a masquerader with us. We do this by providing

1) Superior Customer Service
2) Taking care and attention to every little detail YOU bring to our attention
3) Providing a carnival experience like no other
This year we would like to reward our loyal supporters by assigning a very special gift to those who have been with us and are serious about playing with us for 2009. Call it a loyalty incentive?! We have many followers and this year we know it will be tough to make that Carnival purchase so we just want to thank you in advance.

Sign up by placing your contact information either as a note is this thread or by sending us an email and we would be sure to include an EXTRA SPECIAL TOKEN (worth over $100) in your package this year. This does not work for your friends, what we mean is you cannot sign up for your friends at the same time you are signing up for yourself.

REQUIREMENTS
1) You must be playing with Islandpride for Carnival 2009
2) You must have played with us in the past
3) If this will be your first year playing with us and lucky enough to be seeing this note and making the deadline, you will have to contact one of the Islandpride staff members to confirm eligibility
Good luck and I do hope that all my dear Islandpriders do get in on this super deal. There will be more to come.

Start Your Engines! TRIBE 2010 ~ released!

2009-03-15T14:23:00.001-07:00

I know that Trinidad Carnival is almost a distant memory, but I just wanted to let all my faithful readers know that NEXT YEAR we will be going down THE SILK ROAD with TRIBE for 2010.

NEWS! NEWS! NEWS!

2009-03-12T07:44:00.000-07:00

So you know, once you see me then I have some updates for you. As promised, I am going to try my best this year to keep YOU more updated than those silly "Islandpriders" claim they are going to keep you with THIS BLOG. So I spent all day yesterday at their secret hideaway, since my last "leak" DesigningDARYL has been even more secretive, only discussing his tricks with select Islandpride members so no one person knows exactly what's going on. This is what I saw (my fairycam wasn't working last night, but I did manage to snap a few quick pics and they'll be up here if I dont get kicked off)

I can say that I saw with my little eyes lots of Yellows ~ like a burst of morning sunshine; Blues ~ bright as the sky; Greens and Pinks ~ I thinks? I saw Orange ~ oh la la what amazing color combinations I saw last night. And the opulence, OH MY SO RICH looking, I almost fainted!

I also witnessed an argument, cause it seems that there is a "riff" in the mix. There are so many different colors and concepts that the designer doesn't know what to do. There were HORRID whispers of even scrapping the band this year, because of commitments to other Carnivals (ooh I said too much - I'm shaking as my little fingers are typing) That designer (HE CAN BE SO MEAN) He keeps saying something about "obeah" but I dont know what that is: I have been feeling sleepy everytime I go over there and he even has a special pot in a certain place that I can't fly over! I think he puts his Super frontline creations behind that pot! Oh well, I guess I'll have to gather my energy to look behind there sometime. Cause I'm always sleepy and I dont know why?

I think I saw something so beautiful, so delicate, so precious that I can't even put it into words, they were the most elegant pair of .............................. WINGS (Oops I gotta go..) ~ Watch for my pics soon.....

BIG WELCOME to our REGISTERED members

2009-03-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

Hello Islandpride Family, we'd like to give a special welcome to all our registered bloggers who joined (followed) our blog. We also want to welcome our newest member HIYALEVEL who joined today and want to encourage more people to join. Thanks and keep the awareness growing. Boston Carnival will be here before you know it and I want us ALL to be in the "know" with all things ISLANDPRIDE. Let your Beauty UNFOLD!!!

Special shout out to Carnival Enthusiast; Fashion Rocks; Lola'Jae; Ms. Sexy; Carnival Diva; Mz NoBehavior and of course MadamW (who also gave a great review on Saucy's blog about her experience with doing business with Islandpride)

Keep the membership growing!

Big Band vs. Small Band

2009-03-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

So now that carnival 2K9 season is officially over (for TnT at least) I can take the time to reflect on my experience this past carnival and tackle the topic of the big band vs. small band controversy. You have those that love the personalized attention, small numbers and less expensive prices of the smaller bands but then you also have those who prefer the larger numbers, the notoriety, the quality of the costumes and the overall 'hype' of the big bands. Having actually had the pleasure of experiencing both I find myself actually leaning towards going back to a smaller band for carnival 2K10 especially after playing in Island People this year. This is not to say that I didn't enjoy myself because I definitely did I just felt afterward like I was just another number in the bunch and honestly for the amount of money that masqueraders are expected to dish out to play mas now this shouldn't be the case.

Nothing beats going to a mas camp with no line, being able to switch sections like three days before carnival, having access to unlimited drinks and food, security and nice vibes compared to standing out side a gate begging to switch a piece of costume like that you already paid for while being threatened by men brandishing automatic weapons. Chasing down a food truck and having every Tom, Dick and Harry jumping in your band for free when you paid upwards of $600US!!! Hey to each his own if they are willing to put up with that every year but not me. If I am lucky enough to play in Tribe maybe I will be able to experience a different type of big band and my opinions might change but as of right now, believe me when I say, if I don't get into Tribe and I end up playing in Spice, for example, I will not be in the least bit disappointed.

Suggestions?

2009-03-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

So I'm wondering if I could solicit some feedback from our viewing public, who frequent de blog on a regular basis. As you know, there are some rumors out there that there is a secret party that will kick off Islandpride's 2009 season, and we are working hard (especially our 2009 fairies) to make sure this happens, but I thought I would turn the tables a bit and make this a truly interactive affair.

Given that Boston is so conservative and you are often NOT permitted to do many of the things that are practiced relilgiously in Trinidad for parties, what do YOU think we could do to improve the party scene in Boston. I've heard many suggestions, but I am always open to more. The most recent of my findings was to re-implement the annual summer excursion(s). Any others?

BOSTON Party Review: The Ultimate Birthday Frolic

2009-03-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

Well first, let me say that I had initially intend to "sleep" out this fete because for all my out of country readers, when WE "Trinidad Carnival repeat visitors" come back from all the fun in the sun, we enter a state of euphoric hibernation, where we dont really care to go anywhere until the weather begins to resemble that of our paradise a few weeks earlier.

This party had a lot at stake for my attendance so I'm glad that I attended. On with the review.
LOCATION: Well this leaves much to be desired as we know there's only a few places to party in Boston, So while this one (Carver) was up there on the list of locations, the process to get in was a DISASTER. It was also unappreciated, that once you enter the party you are wondering "Why all the hassle?" as there was ample room to hold everyone in a comfortable setting.
BAR: I dont think people realized there were two bars as the one closest to the stage was packed while the other struggled.
MUSIC: I guess to Bostonians, it was pretty good. However to me, just coming back from sweet T&T, I stood for most of the night and sent some text messages.
VIBE: There definitely was lots of vibe at the party. Reconnecting with familiar faces and showing off your well deserved tan after being away was nice.
OVERALL: Trendsetters parties are always not to be missed, they usually present the right forum to have a nice time and really enjoy yourself. I will probably not going to be out again until Pitch Black. THIS TIME WID MEH CAMERA!!!

Beach House Review

2009-03-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, so after all the controversy regarding the infamous move of Beach House All Inclusive from Ortinola to Couva (lawd faddah...almost South) I was still pretty much sure that I would continue my carnival Thursday tradition of attending. The drive there wasn't as bad as I expected considering where it was located. One thing I did appreciate was the fact that there was no two hour wait to drive up a small single lane road as was the custom at the former location. Upon arrival I noticed that there seemed to be ample parking and I was very pleasantly greeted by a Johnnie Walker Blue station and a BMobile stand. Now, although I am not a fan of Scotch when in Rome do as the Romans so I gladly took a glass. Can't let the premium liquor go to waste. lol

I must say that I really like the new location. A nice, flat expanse that allowed for all the various stations to be ideally situated. The food stations were towards the back and they contained a wide variety of food from curry crab and dumplin to Veitnamese fried rice. On each side of the golf course you had your various bars. The IslandPride ladies promptly set up shop at the Angostura Martini station and we did not stray from there for most of the night. I think I tried every martini they had to offer at least twice. There were also Baileys, Moet/Wine, Hennessey/various cordials stations along with your 'regular' bars. To me the added bonus this year was the dance floor that was right smack in the middle of the venue. I thought this was an excellent idea because it helped to create even more of a party atmosphere as opposed to everyone posing off and liming!!

There was the usual great mix of people, young and old and the vibes were excellent. I honestly think that this year was one of the best times I've had at Beach House and one of the best fetes that I attended this carnival season. Hats off to the Beach House committee for maintaining the integrity of the the fete even with the drastic move. Everyone that I saw and spoke to seemed to be having a 'time' and I will definitely be checking out Beach House 2K10!!

STILL TO COME

2009-03-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Reviews on INSOMNIA and pics as well as Monday (with Evolution and Islandpeople) and Tuesday (with TRIBE). The review will include:

1) Why Russell eye looking so

2) Why this girl and I - who I feel is a blogger and prolly know me (almost duked it out for she to take a picture.

3) Who bam-bam this belongs to!!! (She would freak out when she finds OUT)

PNM Fete

2009-03-03T15:02:00.000-08:00

Not really too much to report on this one, I was tired that night and was dragged out of bed by the SOCA music. Just have some pics, reconnecting with Bunji and a VERY PREGNANT Fay-Ann who was absolutely glowing (congrats on the baby girl) and definitely saw some fashion don'ts! My camera was not charged on that night and so I could have only snapped a couple quickly to share.
Disclaimer: I doh care if I have you posted on my blog, this is AMERICA and I am free to express that YOU LOOKED LIKE AN ASS! So there, take that in your pipe and GET HIGH! Some people really do not cease to amaze me... LOL
HERE WE GO
Our first entrant, is almost 50, have about 15 rolls and could well be my great aunt but chose to wear this and skin out every chance she get! BUSTED!

Our second entrant, was too skinny for words and was well looking like she could get any man in de party cause she was in VIP like me nah and figured for once in she life she could act like she have a lil status (not like if PNM wasn't just a $100 and anyone could have purchased VIP access for a lil more) in any event she bra strap was showing and she had on the wrong outfit! (Observe the safety pin on the brastrap to ensure a "proper" fit) BUSTED!

Our last and final entrant truly deserves the grand prize. Even though this category is one that is reserved for females, I must tell you that this "female" certainly entertained the crowd and could have taught some of the women there a thing or two or as "she" likes to put it: These "houligans" and them.... LOL

Enjoy the rest of the pics...

And for all my Bunji admirers

Flight Cruise Boat Ride

2009-03-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

Another great fete to be on - even though we never left the dock was Flight Cruise Boatride, big up to all meh NY massive. Special shout out to Ghetto Flex (I have your contact info and will link yuh as soon as yuh join meh blog!), Back to Basics (same for you too Ricardo) and meh TriniJungle Juice posse (told you I would post a review first). The fete was nice: Music and food was non-stop and the vibe on the boat was great! The captain tired try to persuade people to level out the amounts on each of the floors of the Treasure Queen, but we were not hearing it and instead chose to jam on people and act wild. It was certainly a well deserved break for me, as I do not really party well with the smell of fresh salt water filling my nostrils. After the Boat Ride (which again never sailed) we took our drunken selves to find out why "Radica leave and went" St James! (Inside joke, to all those who stayed in Boston, you will know what I mean around August or so) Finishing the lime in front of Smokey and Bunty and later down by the Corner Bar, Trinidad on that very night was pure bliss! Enjoy some of the pics from the ride....

Nonstop jokes on the boat that never left!
Beauties on the Boat (Remember IP's Dragon Lizard frontline section last year?)
Food was in abundance for Mr Phil who's arms never cease to stop expanding!
And everybody seem to wanna piece of me when I'm drunk cause I hear I'm much MORE FUN
Lawlessness again - now yuh see at least when de light off she doh have to see NOTHING!
Meh TriniJungleJuice bro - completely forget bout he wok and taking ah small wine!

REVIEW: Army Fete

2009-03-03T14:22:00.000-08:00

This was a fete that I definitely needed to ensure that I had VIP access for, not only that but I had to ensure that I was accompanied by a sexy Army "bodyguard-ress" (photo to follow later) and had to have backstage access for. I say all of this because Army is one of those fetes that while it is the safest, it is also the most well attended by EVERYONE!!! I am trying my best to be polite but I think all my readers know what I mean, when the "bourgeous" girls want to get a good dose of some domestic "piggy" they come to Army fete where they can safely party with the "commoners". But between you and me, Army is the fete I does get the MOST JOKES, it is like rampid wildfire the amount of drinks people consume and then get on bad in the fete. Definitely a must if you want a party to start of things right. The rain made the party even sweeter and with regard to performances, of course big up to Destra who gave a wicked performance. Denise Belfon - meh girl and the most OBSESSIVE WINER yet!! Attached are some brief pics. For the price, this fete was well worth it.

Before yuh even think about partying you MUST have your tickets in hand! (What is missing from this pic is the VIP wristband that was obviously on my wrist which allow access to many other fetes as folks VALUE my OPINION and a positive review!)

Meh Bodyguard-ress for the night LOL

Denise Saucy Obsessive Winer WOW Belfon

REVIEW: Eyes Wide Shut - CARNIVALE

2009-03-03T13:27:00.000-08:00

THE CREW!!!This fete was undoubtedly the best and a staple in your Carnival fete itinerary for Trinidad Carnival. The atmosphere is pure Zen as you walk into the party, you instantly get a feel that you can transform yourself into someone/something else and party HARD!!! Of course, a mask was somewhat mandatory to the "cool" folks and I was no exception, I hardly had anytime to take any pics of other masks as truth be told I was "tight" out of my mind! And meh pants was tight too (Hello I have style LOL). Anyways, on with the review: The music was nice, and this year (which was indeed noticed and appreciated) there were more chit bars and in well thought of locations. This proved helpful as you could have maneuvered to other locations to get chits in case one area was full. In the past you often had to congregate at one location often making your desire to consume alcohol next to none! This proved well worth it as I drank to my leisure and well had a time. Check out the pics. Overall the party was nice and people were very polite, for some reason its always a more tempered crowd that attends this event, especially since its semi formal. Everyone looked great and hopefully next year, We'll see you there!!!

We're BACK!!!

2009-03-03T13:20:00.000-08:00

Hey All,
So the Islandpride posse is finally back with one exception, apparently BROWN SUGAR can't find she blasted way back to Boston yet. Nonetheless, we have tons to report so no delays. Overall 2009 in Trinidad for Carnival was ok. You could have definitely felt that the world was in a recession as many common practices in Trinidad for Carnival were observed at a very sharp decrease; I say that to mean that for example, where I know that "scalpers" were used to making approximately 50% increase (most times more) on tickets at the venue (hence scalping) you actually saw tickets being sold for less at the door. A friend of ours actually secured an Insomia ticket for $200!!! When I paid $245 for mine in advance at Islandpeople House! So in a nutshell that should give you an idea of the small crisis that carnival practices were observing over the period of the last 3 weeks.

We'll have lots of pics of the various parties, our famous not to do lists and of course the fabu Islandpride team celebrating in the greatest show on EARTH!!!!!

The sights!.... The SOUNDS!!!! .... The DRUMS!!!!... Its TRINIDAD

2009-02-12T05:29:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Thanks for being so patient while I update the blog.... And thanks (to the not so subtle) who reminded me of my efforts to update with details while abroad and in the land of music, which will now be changed to the land of the HEAVENLY DRUMS! Yes, as promised, pics and details will be coming soon to give all a small glimpse into what is currently being experienced. Some of your other siblings from the Islandpride family are traveling today to join me and as I await their arrival, I ask you to await my uploads of the pics of Bunji in the square at noon today... More to follow.....

IslandPRIDE welcomes....

2009-02-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

Islandpride welcomes all our new visitors to the blog. Thanks for your support. As I have counted now, we are seeing new visitors who are learning about us from:
Trinidadcarnivaldiary.com ~ 40%
Islandmix.com ~ 30%
Facebook.com ~ 20%
Other (various) ~ 10%

As of 11:10am this morning. Thanks for the luv :)

Thanks for the support and visibility and we hope to see you in one of our stellar designs for Boston Carnival in our 2009 presentation "THE BEAUTIES UNFOLD"

Any questions/inquiries/suggestions/requests:
islandprideinc@hotmail.com

We're LIVE!

2009-02-09T06:17:00.000-08:00

Today February 9th 2009, our blog has gone live! Our Islandpride team were fiddling behind the scenes making sure all the "tweaks" and "glitches" of blogging were challenged and if there were any kinks - worked out. This proved well as we didn't want to have any readers clicking on anything and it not showing up! We also opened up our simple blog to many more seasoned professionals who offered their words of advice and gave their blessing, because as you know - our work is not good if it's not validated by those who are in the community already and can appreciate an artform that can attest to their inner most passions! That said, we have received many compliments and also a very special shout out from the DIVA herself, Ms Saucy Diva who has started an indelible trend in the blogging industry for west indians as we relate to our beloved artform Carnival, and we are certainly very happy for this honor.

Dont think that she should be getting all this hype I am talking about? Well check out her blog yourself, and we're sure that you'll be convinced! http://www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com

Happy reading and keep checking back for our constant updates!

CARNIVAL TIPS for MEN!!!

2009-02-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

Let's not get it twisted Islandpride, Carnival is not only for women but men too! And its time that the men get some pointers as to what to do or perhaps not do when it comes to preparation for Carnival. Just like the women there are several things that men should engage in to be sure that you attract the type of woman on Carnival day to make your jump that much sweeter and NOT just go and "throw up yourself" on any woman in the name of mas, cause guess what "buddy" she will be throwing up ON YOU!!!
Carnival DO's and DONT's for the men:

1) If you do have some sort of body, whether it be "newly gym released"; "Fell of the gym bandwagon around the middle section" or just plain "Stick figure like the Lucozade guy commercial" you need to make sure that your body is devoid of visible and unruly CHEST HAIR. Please shave/wax or trim the hair and make sure it is at least appealing to someone's eye!
2) If number 1 is too much for you to do - do throw on a wifebeater in the appropriate color.
3) A proper manicure helps - this is for the days leading up to carnival and the day itself. Many women wear some revealing and delicate clothing around carnival time and DO NOT need your claws causing them alteration expenses while in a foreign country!
4) Do shave below your BLASTED arms! This attracts some serious odor and/or clumping of cheap deodorant which are both things that can be done away!
5) On Carnival Monday, please please please DO NOT go up pushing on no woman if you dont have anything (or enough) to push up with! Women have a very unique way of letting you know they do not want to wine with you, please dont think its their way of playing cat and mouse. Check yourself of PAD one of the two!
6) Please carry GUM! Hennessy and Red Bull is a great drink but has a very "STINK" aftertaste, doh go talking up in to gyul face with your stinkmouth and expect a wine or more.
7) For those of us with DREADS, shake it out on Monday, make sure it right on Tuesday and spray a lil oil sheen or something in it to mask the sweat smell.
8) If you are very muscular, please do not wear a choker chain OR a speedo with your balls to one side and think that if you try to wine on women, people will think you're straight. Silly rabbit - tricks are for kids!
9) If you are slightly muscular - please dont think you're #8 either
10) For those who have descent bodies and intend to show it and have followed my rules, but however feel as though they need some body art and have opted to go the henna route. PLEASE MAKE SURE IT NOT RUBBING OFF! (Especially unknown to YOU!)

If you have any additions, feel free to add them to the list by way of the comment box.. Thanks for your responses!

Carnival Make Up Ideas

2009-02-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

Carnival is SERIOUS business! After our day long workshop we now have some magnificent boots and tantalizing Monday wear. Now is time to talk about make up, we must be FIERCE from head to toe on both days. So after work last night I was off to Sephora and the MAC store to purchase some eye shadows that will blend with my costume (I already have the basics like the studio fix, primer, lip gloss, mascara etc).

These are some of my findings; I will be blending these colors with a hint of burgundy and orange. Feel free to let us know your make up tips and ideas.

MAC mineralize eye shadow - $19
MAC pigment (could be used on the face or body) - $19.50
Sephora glitter eyeliner – $12

IslandPRIDE Crew Trinidad Carnival Agenda....

2009-02-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

As you know, the IslandPRIDE crew is hype and ready for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2009! I know I cannot wait for a hiatus from this cold weather. Here is a list of events that the members plan to attend:

Alternative Concept 7
PNM fete
Ice Pick
AWOL “ah fete without limits”
Eyes Wide Shut
Customs Boys
Beach House
Tribe Ignite
Break Biche
Girl Power
Soca Monarch
Insomnia
Brian Lara
Mania
Jouvert and off course we will be on the road Carnival Monday and Tuesday

On top of this hectic agenda we cannot forget the lime by Smokey and Bunty, Crobar and Maracas Beach (we must stop by Richard's for a bake n shark).

What an agenda… do you think we would be able to keep up? Stay tuned to hear about our carnival experience when we return from THE LAND OF OIL AND MUSIC!

Islandpride announces their 2009 MODEL SEARCH

2009-02-04T08:11:00.001-08:00

And introduces CHAD (IPride male model):
So ladies, this is what we are working with for 2009, come READY!

Islandpride is conducting a model search for both male and female models for their Boston Carnival presentation "The BEAUTIES UNFOLD".

If you are interested in becoming the face of Islandpride, send photographs by email to:

islandprideinc@hotmail.com

Photographas must show one face shot and one full body shot (costume or bathing suit shot preferred, no nudity, must be 19 and over).

Models will be asked to complete 3 Islandpride events; band launch, photoshoot and/or "Theme Party".

Chosen models will receive Islandpride perks and benefits such as playing mas with Islandpride for 2009 Boston Carnival and/or admission to 2 fetes (fetes TBA).

All photographs must be submitted by July 13th.

Boots, Boots and MORE BOOTS!

2009-02-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

There is no discussion when it comes to Carnival footwear and TRINIDAD CARNIVAL! Any other Carnival you frequent, you can feel free to wear whatever is comfortable and economical and ergonomic or whatever the else have you. BUT! when it comes to the mecca of carnival, the mother of all festivities. YOU HAVE GOT TO COME CORRECT! There is simply too much at stake: Publicity, notariety and of course ENVY! LOL Let me stop. I am not much of a talker but I am good at what is done (TO BOOTS) and I do after all have the last say when it comes to the overall design/concept and execution of a well made, ornate, awe inspiring Carnival Boots. NOW on with the show:

(In my most sincere Heidi Klum "Project Runway" voice)
"Well as you know, in the world of Carnival and specifically with boots design, one day your IN, the next YOU'RE OUT. So all those who are designing boots and or Carnival footwear for Trinidad Carnival - take note YOU'RE OUT!

Disclaimer: These boots were all done for masqueraders within Islandpride and exclusively for sections that are in the Islandpeople presentation "Heaven on Earth" and have been labeled accordingly. They remain the concepts of designingDARYL. There is no affiliation to date with Islandpeople and Islandpride.

IP Rays Of Light Boots (Up close DETAILS):

IP Rays Of Light (Regular):

IP Rays of Light costume (pic courtesy of Islandpeople)

IP Rays Of Light (Angeled view):

IP Afrodisiac:

IP Afrodisiac costume (pic courtesy of Islandpeople)

IP Afrodisiac (Second View):

IP Rays Of Light (2nd boots design done for another client)

IP Rays of Light costume (pic courtesy of Islandpeople)

IP Rays of Light (2nd boot design - Pair Shot)

Monday Wear

2009-02-03T07:20:00.000-08:00

Well as you know, we take our carnival very seriously and it was so funny to note that we (Islandpride) actually had a day long workshop just to create signature looks for the road for Carnival Monday in Trinidad. This involved creating everything, a complete package, for the road on Monday! I'm talking about tops, boyshorts, accessories, planning makeup, test shots - EVERYTHING. This workshop was hilarious as it involved every member of the group (except one - YES YOU TROPICAL T), between you and me, she is always missing at key times of the "production" year and then stealing de blasted show at the end of the day!
And it was interesting because Monday wear actually turned into a Monday ritual for the females. Monday wear with them is a huge deal - -so please be sure to stay tuned to check out the pics as they become available of all the pieces that makes a perfect Monday wear costume, DE TALK OF DE TOWN!!!!

Short HIATUS in observance of Trinidad Carnival

2009-02-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Loyal Readers,
In observance of the greatest show on EARTH - Trinidad Carnival, Islandpride will be taking a short break as we get ready to leave all this cold behind and head to the warmth of Trinidad and Tobago and engage in gay abandon in some of the skimpiest costumes around. The Islandpride members will be in Islandpeople and TRIBE for Carnival and be sure to stay tuned as we post pictures and show many out there how its truly done in the land that we all love best!

Islandpride HINTS for 2009 Presentation!!

2009-01-29T18:08:00.000-08:00

Hi, I am your Ipride fairy Lolita Lompeka and as the Ipride members are preparing for the Greatest Show on Earth: Trinidad Carnival 2KWhine! I've stolen some of their secrets! IslandPRIDE would like to remind you to have a safe and wonderful Carnival season and to begin your DREAMS as to what they are possibly going to bring for our BELOVED Boston Carnival 2009! If you are really attentive, I'll give you a clue (look at the CAPS) we're going to paint the town blue or TANTILIZING TURQUOISE, or is it red CRIMSON CRYS or perhaps even black ONYX ORACLES or a nice hint of HONEY dripped hopes to awaken the senses and bring joy to our eyes and bodies alike... If only their designer finds out about my little feat, he may drastically change the colors to BUTTERSCOTCH melodies or even PERIWINKLE fantasies, so I must be careful with what I tell you. (Its hard being nosy and keeping adrift - they speak so quickly) Be prepared for all the fantastic goodies you got in 2008 and an added treat for those fantastical superfrontliners who prefer the EXTRA treatment of being on top of the world in a TRANSFORMATIONAL Carnival Costume, constructed like none other on Boston's road. You know you play with the best and IPride says for 2009 come watch THE BEAUTIES UNFOLD!

3 All Inclusive Sections (Everything included: Costume/Makeup/Accessories/Goodie Bag)
3 Super All Inclusive Frontlines (Everything included in the all inclusive section, plus a very sexy surprise!) Limited amounts
2 HEAD Frontliners (First come, first served: Costume made to your exact specifications and exclusive designer/customer interaction to bring your on road fantasy a reality)

As always we welcome new members to experience the Islandpride Experience and look forward to being your premiere supplier of Carnival related products for years to come. MAKE SURE WE HAVE YOUR EMAILS... There are some very special hidden surprises that comes in your email for 2009. ~~~ Show off your IslandPRIDE!!!! ~~~ Registration begins JUNE 22ND 2009

.............................................................
Not sure if you received this update in your email - but it seems that we have a date for the official registration... Lets hope the costumes live up to all this BLASTED HYPE!!!!

Islandpride's FIRSTS

2009-01-29T17:57:00.000-08:00

THESE FIRSTS ARE QUOTED AS IT RELATES TO ISLANDPRIDE AND BOSTON CARNIVAL
1) First new STABLE costumed band for Boston Carnival in the last 5 years with consecutive presentations and not coming out one year and abandoning the other years.
2) First to market the "all-inclusive" idea. Now I will clarify, being all-inclusive is something that was not new to Carnival but we were the first to market the idea!
3) First band with a BLOG. Now watch how many others that will take an idea that is not new (blogging) and claim they were doing it for years.
4) First band to merge high fashion professional cuts and apply them to traditional costume design. These included the plunging neckline and backline and the bridged peacoat ideas
5) First band to include complimentary accessories with the purchase of your costume.
6) First to incorporate themed parties and the ever elusive "concept marketing" to party ideas.
7) First and youngest band in Boston thus showing the committment and power of the younger, cultured generation. A band BY THE YOUTH for the YOUTH!

IslandPRIDE: Costume band or State of Mind?

2009-01-29T17:47:00.000-08:00

So I was on my commute home when I was stopped and asked "Excuse me you is de guy from Islandpride?" (true trini talk eh) so I acknowledged only to hear that the individual was an admirer of not only me but the band and things that I have done in the past and future. While I was flattered, I thought about what she said, specifically that I was lucky to have found the people that I work with and that "she" can easily identify anyone that is really connected to Islandpride which begs me to ask the question? Is Islandpride just a costume band or a STATE OF MIND?

Now I know that one would say well its just a costume band, but really, we at Islandpride really try to ensure that anyone who comes to our band really enjoys the real experience that is Carnival; not just the road, but the parties, the opulence of the costume, the manufacturing of the materials and lastly the rich history. I believe that this attention that we give each and every masquerader gives them a form of entitlement that is not necessarily false, but rather earned, as I know many masqueraders simply play to be "associated" with others and not know the true meaning of what they are doing. SO therefore what we do translates into how we act at parties or in public. Think about it - do we know any "Islandpriders" with a reputation that is not becoming?

I think that we may be on to something and I know the Islandpride team will not stop until everyone has received a dose of what IPride has to offer.... Call it Carnival Enlightenment (for the soul)!!!

Official WELCOME and LAUNCH of the 2009 Ipride season

2009-01-29T16:11:00.001-08:00

Welcome to our blog, we hope that you would visit us daily, contribute content and make this the best blog for West Indian Bostonians as we make it through another year. Tell me how you really feel, I wanna know - really...