REGGAE NEWS

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LIVE SHOW REVIEW:
For Independence Day, Namebrand Promotions put together a great concert at the Caribbean Sunshine Lounge. Black Roze did the early juggling. DJ Agony, Ted, and Blacks, what a combination to create the Flava Unit! Baby Cham, Louie Culture, Mr. Vegas, and Singing Melody performed to the utmost tonight. If you were not there, you missed it. The vibe flowing was so nice. You can close your eyes and feel the soft voice of Singing Melody caress your body with his tunes. Ladies, you know what I mean. Louie Culture made the conscious crowd even more aware of what life should be. Mr, Vegas prepared the crowd for Baby Cham, getting them in the mood to dance and move to whatever he brought on stage. To see these young men bring in so much energy is unbelieveable. Cham has done so much in his 24 years to reach the level he’s at. He mentioned that he wanted to take reggae to the next level – and we look forward to going there with you. Surprise guests Red Rat and Shinhead were there just to support their friends. We all need support once in a while. – Roxy Johnson

REGGAE-LUTION:
The essence of Jamaica doesn’t breathe through rhythm and dance – it breathes through spirit and action. The spirit of dancehall music has nearly been murdered in recent years. The lack of support and overall misconceptions that seem to follow Caribbean partying continuously play down the cultural potential it possesses. It wasn’t but a few years ago that Caribbean students from UCF threw the wickedest parties in Central Florida. People from all over Florida came to jam with local students in an effort to culminate the Jamaican expression, "One people. One love." Approaching 2003, a group of unusal suspects plans to bring Central Florida back into that vibe.

What do you see at Caribbean parties in Orlando as compared to other cities?

The promoters don’t always deliver. Sometimes it’s the sound or the artist that doesn’t show, or they’re dealing with liquor license problems. There’s also a huge lack of excitement. There is an overall lack of enthusiasm when it comes to Orlando Caribbean parties.

Who are the USUAL SUSPECTS?

Three up and coming party promoters, who plan to make it happen for Caribbean parties in the Orlando area. We’re the ones you can count on to provide melodic music, atmosphere, and vibes to make your night memorable. We’re on another level when it comes to party promotions – we do like the U.S. Mail. We deliver!

Is the Caribbean community truly embraced here in Orlando?

Yes and no. From a commercial standpoint, yes. The only Caribbean things you see are those known to the masses. Bob Marley and Beenie Man, for example, are artists that are most likely to be accepted because of their commercial success. But I don’t see Orlando embracing other established dancehall artists like Elephant Man, Baby Cham, and Warrior King, among others. There isn’t really a Caribbean community here in the Orlando area. There’s no commercial radio stations that deal with Caribbean issues and play reggae music.

What are your thoughts on the stability of dancehall music?

Dancehall music is very safe. It’s the voice of the Jamaican people and will continue to gain popularity throughout the world. USUAL SUSPECTS will promote dancehall music in the area and keep Orlando up-to-date with the latest and best in the genre.

What is the overall vibe of a USUAL SUSPECTS party?

It’s guaranteed to be hype from beginning to end. The selection of music that’s played is immaculate. There is an art in playing music, and we’ve mastered it to the fullest. We guarantee all the best drinks and a dance floor in an incredibly beautiful atmosphere. Whether it’s holding a corner and chilling with a drink or jumping up in the middle of the dance floor, we guarantee you will have a nice time.

What makes you different from other promoters?

Our goal is not necessarily to impress the people, but to make them enjoy themselves. What we’re here for is to make sure everyone who shows up at a USUAL SUSPECTS party has the time of their life. Actions speak louder than words. Ask anyone who was at our last party, and they can tell you. We have confidence in the skills of LP Walsh, who provides the most important element – the music. Combined with a nice venue, that ensures the vibes are right and the parties are hot.

What’s the code a USUAL SUSPECT lives by?

Stay cool, handle our business, and make sure the masses have the sweetest time. After attending a USUAL SUSPECT party, you can still hear them chanting, ‘Gimme more, gimme more!’ - CL Mecca