New Crop Over Sunday Events 2012

As I said in my last calendar post here, there is a vast variety of events to choose from this year. Here I give you my pick so far for Crop Over Sunday. If the Mayans are right this could be our last Crop Over, let's go out with a bang!

Exotica

3 -10pm

Now this event sounds very much my style.  The people behind it called Platinum Experience Entertainment are known for their invite-only all-white events held in Barbados over the past few years, including last year's "Splendorous". I have heard have rave reviews about these past fetes. These people certainly look pleased:

Here are some of  the offerings at their last event at Limegrove Rooftop:

They've promised every variety of drink you can think of, no rum punch and beers here people - if you drink Hennessy, there will be Pure White on offer, if you drink JW expect the Blue (or the Gold, I can never figure which is which), class from start to finish! Food will be prepared by chefs flown in with show cooking right before you. What caught my interest was the cigar and champagne lounge...sounds like an exquisite combo. This is definitely an event to add to our calendar, especially now Booze Cruise has revealed their plans for 2012.

Exotica will be held in a private estate in St. John (it's really St. George, so don't get TOO scared). Early bird tickets are $100 US, and $125 thereafter.

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Scorch Breakfast Party

4 -10 am

Scorch has thrown a massively popular Jolly Roger cruise, details on our calendar. This drinks and breakfast inclusive is a new addition that may be worth checking out. As it is new, Bajans may be a bit hesitant but the Trini influx that are Scorch devotees may make up for that.

The location will be Bellevue Plantation House where Baje held their house party last year. Hmm, does Scorch know about the noise complaints that brought an abrupt end to that particular bram? Having been to Scorch's Carnival fete I can say they can transform an outdoor location marvellously, and Bellevue is already quite a beautiful spot.

Scorch says come dressed 'to get wet' and if you know anything, you'll know that water added to one of their parties means looseness x trillion = vibes!

Of course, this is just about sold out. If you know one of the cool people then you're on the inside. Combo tickets with both cruise and breakfast party went first, but I hear tell that some breakfast party ones may still be available.

We will be in attendance to let you know how it went!

Follow us on twitter now @CropChronicles to keep in the loop, or join our facebook group. Next up,  new events on Crop Over Thursday!

Tickets to Crop Over events can be booked through TrpleF Crop Over and Carnival Services. Like them on Facebook or follow on Twitter @TrpleF

Crop Over 2012 Event Updates

As we mentioned in our 2012 Calendar we are hearing about a few things brewing for 2012, the diversity and new events really shows that Crop Over is really growing, option after option! Here's what's happening Crop Over week and what is on next weekend. 

Scorch Breakfast Party – Crop Over Sunday (a.m.)

As I will be missing Scorch Cruise this year (can’t make it to Bliss on the same day) people have been trying to get me to consider this new event. Styled on breakfast parties in Trinidad, it is supposed to be an all-inclusive. I’d much prefer to go  Island Mas’ breakfast party but will see what I hear. Shhh…remember the first rule of Scorch is YOU DON’T TALK ABOUT SCORCH!

Scorch ticket

No, seriously. Here are last year’s rules, printed on the back of each Scorch Cruise ticket: 

1. Don't talk about Scorch 2. No refusal of Scorch shots 3. No over sized coolers 4. No glass bottles 5. No fashion fcuk ups 6. No sloppy bodies 7. No Drama 8. No sour vibes 9. No ticket No Entry 10. No List 11. No Comps 12. No visa face.

Lush Cooler Party - Crop Over Wednesday

Who are the people behind this? Your guess is as good as mine, I'm always wary of new things without knowing if those behind it have put on an event of scale before, but hey. They invite you to bring your cooler and party while enjoying the "stunning vistas of the expansive, picturesque gardens"  of a "West Coast Villa" Tickets come out this month, and are $50 BDS / $25 US. 

Sunset by SUV Boyz – Crop Over Thursday

I am very happy as this event is normally held the week before Crop Over, when a lot of non-Bajans do not get a chance to experience it as they aren’t in yet. 

In past years, the event has gone from a buy your own drinks do, to an all-inclusive last year, all at the lovely Lion Castle Polo club. Looks like it is back to the a-la-cate option this year. A 5 star hotel will be the venue, with the menu options including sushi and other delicacies. Tickets are $50 BDS / $25 US. Stay tuned to us for details as they come. As the new ‘Rize’ all inclusive event is the same day, I’m loving that we have options, finally!

Brewsters Road - 15 June

Launches their season at Kensington Oval  with an event called ‘Reset the Heartbeat’. Lil Rick, Nard, John Mohammed and Dutty Android(!) – can’t tell you how much I’d like to see this man perform live, will be there. Admission is $25 BDS, I support them making this a pay event, may keep out some of the crazies, and honestly the quality of Brewsters is such that it really is worth the money. 2 for 1 drinks specials should make this worthwhile. They’ve said to “Dress crazy, come out crazy because we are going Soca Insane”. Oh dear.

And apparently they are giving away a car this year! Double entry forms before 12 for your chance to win it at the end of the season. See calendar here: http://www.brewstersroadcrew.info/cropover2012/

Pork Lime - 15 June

The first for the season, Pork lime, Pork lime, Pork lime, so good they had to repeat it! You should know what you’re getting here, nufffff pork and live performances (they never say who is coming) and most importantly, it’s FREE! The highlight to look out for is that this is the first time Contact Band shows their costumes in public, even though the band house has been open for a week and frontlines already sold out. They look amazing, really Contact has stepped up the game this year by getting new designers in.

For all your Crop Over ticket bookings contact TrpleF Services

Email : trplefservices@gmail.com

Like on Facebook : TrpleF Services

Follow on Twitter : @TrpleF

Baje band launch 2012

As I write, I am still amongst the throng of beautiful Baje people that have been privileged enough to attend the Crop Over 2012 presentation of Baje International.  Baje has a faithful crowd and the consensus right now is that they have BROUGHT IT once again! As always! The smart move of adding the Project Runway winner Anya Ayoung Chee (which according to some may be more of a coup for her than for Baje) ensures that Baje keeps their position at the forefront of what is hip, young, and cutting edge in the Crop Over market. 

Without further ado, the costumes!

Fyah

Liquid

Blueprint

Fuzion

Pulse

Shine

Fuzion frontline

Blueprint Frontline 'Izzo'

Yeah. There was pole dancing.

As per usual, previous band members get the first dibs on costumes, starting tomorrow Saturday 2nd June! General registration starts Monday 5th June. Good luck getting a costume!

Prices Big headpiece/small tiara headpiece/male  


(All in Barbados $ - approximately 2 Bds = 1 US)

Shine

$605/560/500

Liquid

$565/515/505

Fuzion 

$700/645/535
Frontline: $1,100

Blueprint

$595/545/525
Frontline: $1,250

Fyah

$585/530/505

Ohana

$575/525/525
Optional collar + $100

Pulse

$610/555/500

Crop Over Calendar 2012

Crop Over is officially here! I've put together THE guide so you know where to go, what to do and how to party in our little island paradise. For the first-timers, and the so-called veterans - it begins! 

Dates and times according to info available at press time. Events to be added/updated later in the season. Three stars *** means a Crop Over Chronicles choice pick

Crop Over Tuesday - 31st July

Soca Titans 

Great showcase of soca artistes that starts off Crop Over week with a bang! All the big names from soca have made an appearance over the past few years this has been in existence. For a soca-holic like myself it is a must-do this year.

Crop Over Wednesday - 1st August

Wadadah Together As One

The last lap for Wadadah Group for the season. I like a good fete, more than that I like one put on by a group that is 100% local and contributes to good causes. Aside from the fact that Wadadah plays a great role in the community, they throw a hell of a party! Fun guaranteed.

*NEW* Lush Cooler Party
Cooler party - a new concept for Barbados and Crop Over in general. At a reasonable $25US it shouldn't deter money-conscious Bajans. Venue is a 'West Coast villa'. In addition to your coolers, bottle bar is also available.


***Harbour Lights Beach Extravaganza 

This outdoor party spot is always a good bet on any given week outside of the season, with free drinks (which I've always found to be a bit watered down) complemented by live performances from big names. Also a good place to start if you're fresh off the plane, as the vibes are always crazy. 

*NEW* Crop Over Rum Beer and Wine Festival

Now two out of three of my favourite drinks made my ears perk up at this one. Being held at Cricket Legends in Fontabelle, and for only $12.50 US including free drink vouchers. With live entertainment, tuk bands, steel pan, DJs and karaoke, this may be a good event to add to your calendar.

Crop Over Thursday - 2nd August

Uniform Boatride (daytime)
Put on by some experienced promoters from all over the world, this dress-up boatride always gets good reviews from the attendees. All-inclusive with food and drinks for a great price.


Glow by Power x 4
Power x 4 the band has a lovely venue called the Party Stand, and 'Glow' is their all-white event held here. The quality of music performances and the just-right size of the space makes this a good option for the Thursday.

Frazzled - Mug Madness

A Bajan version of a good cooler fete – like Wicked in White. Hype live acts and great vibe is a given here. A bit disappointing in 2011, mainly because of the venue choice. The crush of people made it less enjoyable than usual. Here's hoping for a new venue/VIP area(!) or I'll have to give it a miss in 2012. 

*NEW* Rize All Inclusive

This event, being held in a particularly lush estate in Sandy Lane, sounds very interesting. Let's hope they do it right the first year, as Bajans tend to be wary of new things. Stay tuned for more info as The Crop Over Chronicles gets it!

Crop Over Friday - 3rd August

***Bridgetown Market

Soak up the atmosphere on Spring Garden Highway before it gets inundated with sweaty bodies on Monday, stalls abound with local products. Experience an authentic Bajan day out. Check out the Brewsters Road Crew stall while you’re there.

The Bathsheba Experience

Tagged as 'The Ultimate Cropover All Inclusive', but not one where you stand up and pose. Popular with foreigners  and celebrities. The venue is not as close as most events, but getting there is half the fun!

Roast Cruise

Roast - Bajan for hurt, frazzled, rip up, etc. All inclusive cruise with the aim to make you useless to yourself until late Saturday afternoon. If you have a weak liver, avoid at all costs! Only attend if you think you can bring it, prepare for ultimate vibe and ultimate drinks, with a pre-party dockside. 

Pork Lime 

Starting at dusk, this is a free weekly Friday lime with surprise artistes and DJ music, the final one being on Crop Over Friday. As you may be able to tell from the name, the specialty dish here is pork. Lots and LOTS of pork in every form is on sale. Runs into the wee hours of the morning. 

Cabanas

First held in 2011 with a 'cabana' and bottle service concept. Haven't gotten around to asking those who attended for a review as yet, so still not sure if this is worth attending, but it seems it's being done again this year. 

Pic O De Crop finals
Excellent opportunity to see some real Bajan music, this has the best of the best, or 'crop' that have come down through the rounds of calypso tents. The most exciting thing in recent memory is a backstage scuffle between The Mighty Gabby and a reporter, but on the whole it's good clean fun. Goes straight into Friday night into Crop Over Saturday and:

Foreday Morning Jam  approximately 12am to 7am

Foreday/jouvert options include:

Collision

I had a great time in 2011 with Collision Foreday Morning Band. The Trini rhythm section was a nice touch.

Baje Jouvert

This is an actual jouvert party, good if you like your jouvert not on the road. Baje is known for having a bar as long as 50ft-this fete is drinks inclusive of course.

Jambalassee Jouvert

You will find a lot of the masqueraders are good friends and repeat customers. Booked way in advance, nice people, and safe. This band has always sold out quickly.

Mojito by Allure Ent                 

Sponsored by Bacardi,  guaranteed mojitos and rum all night into morning. Includes private party 10pm Friday to 6am Saturday. Anything that includes a pre-party too is a-ok in my books-2 for the price of 1!

  

Colorz Entertainment Jouvert

Great value, with no increase from last year's price includes FREE PRE JUMP UP PARTY Again, you can't go wrong with that.

DMD Entertainment 

Last year's theme was 'BATTLE AGAINST MR.HARDING'. They called themselves the  Redjet of Jouvert bands at only $45US!! Any DMD party is bound to be bashy – if you don’t understand the meaning of bashy, attend this and find out.

Island Fusion Jouvert 

Only in its third year yet I'm quite certain it will be sold out almost as soon as it launches. You'll find the Bajan hot girls and according to some, a bourgeoisie vibe here. Frontline costumes were a great innovation last year for you divas out there!

***Wadadah Morning Brek Out

The after - foreday party. Water, foam, paint and mud zones. Add to that all the Crop Over artistes passing through and you've got THE party you go to after foreday-that's right! No sleep! A definite favourite of mine. 

  

Crop Over Saturday - 4th August

Scorch Cooler Cruise

What can one say about a Scorch party, but to say expect nothing but young wild and free, sexy, hip party animals will be present. An overabundance of Trinis tend to flock to this bring your own drinks event put on by the Trinidadian DJ Hypa Hoppy. 

***Bliss

The all-inclusive to end them all. Think Beach House, Soka in Moka, etc. The guys who hold this calendar staple always have an amazing venue and good looking attendees. Girls, buy a new outfit. Trust me. The women don’t play at this one. Guys: try and shave at least.

10-10

From 10pm Saturday to 10am Sunday, a 12 hour party for those of you who think you're able. You're guaranteed to find the hottest acts, international, regional, and local, just bring some stamina. VIP is available, and probably advised if you don't like standing for 12 hours, plus want food and drink included, but enjoy yourself in some flats in the General section - you'll have just as much fun.

Crop Over Sunday - 5th August

Island Mas breakfast party

Increasing in popularity year by year, still the only real 'breakfast party' and a great setting. Usually at the Barbados museum last year it was at a new equally beautiful venue -  George Washington House. Had live performances and a great cause being supported in the HIV assistance program.

  

Booze Cruise

Those who go, know. All inclusive cruise, after party on the beachfront with big stars passing through to perform live. Just like Vale Breakfast Party in Trinidad, good luck finding a ticket, though...

Limerz Cruise

Fully inclusive, this cruise takes place on multiple catamarans instead of a regular boat. Good time all around. 

*NEW* Exotica

All inclusive event held from 3pm, so almost in direct competition with the above cruises. The organisers promise a 'premium' experience. Let's see what they bring!

Cohobblopot
Similar to Rama in Trinidad, creme de la creme of artistes perform, just don't stay till morning if you're jumping the next day. FYI: 'jumping' is the Bajan equivalent of 'playing mas'-always good to get your vocabulary straight  :)
Harbour Lights pre-jump party
Never fails as a great hype builder to the jump the next day. Lights has its own band (Blue Box Cart), and the band's revellers are well known for heading straight onto the road when they finish partying here!

Grand Kadooment Monday - 6th August

Grand Kadooment

The parade of bands ending at Spring Garden Highway. If you have any last minute vibes and feel like joining a band, contact TrpleF. They also have a great all inclusive option for $50 US or so, where you can watch the bands as they pass and get free drinks and food all day. Bank Holiday Tuesday - the day after is now a public holiday, there are some good cooldown options Tuesday - I've heard of a Rum and Roti lime on! 

Let us know which event you can't miss this year.

Welcome to Crop Over!

**Disclaimer** This is not a comprehensive list, just the things The Crop Over Chronicles endorses to some extent. Although if you hear about something not on this list, it’s probably not that important.

For all tickets to events and band registrations, like TrpleF Services page on Facebook and Twitter or email: trplefservices@gmail.com

Fantasy Barbados 2012 Band Launch Review

As you will have seen from our interview with the Fantasy bandleader here, this new band is one of the first of the season to launch, and we were invited to have a front row seat last night as they presented 'Warriors of Africa' for Crop Over 2012.

The launch was held in the University of The West Indies and started off with some lovely cultural bits, including an African dance performed by students of the university. After this we were treated to a background on the theme behind the band, which the bandleader connected to the UWI's African masters program. The way she connected it to the struggle of Africans in the Caribbean really impressed me. Really interesting stuff! 

Now onto the costumes *pricelist below*:

MANDINGO

A nicely executed costume, granted the male feels truer to the African theme, as it did in many of the sections. I found the male very authentic down to the staff and zebra print. Loving the use of accessories like the staff by Fantasy. It's those little touches that make all the difference. As they said, they think men deserve more than a shorts and band. The female feels a bit over plumed, but other than that it is a pretty costume that a lot of frontline divas will love.

AMAZON

Now THIS, this is my favourite section. The strong geometric shapes which scream authentic Africa, the mohawk (!) headpieces, the bright yellows, golds, and bronzes which always look amazing in the sun, the shield for those boys who always wanted to play gladiator...did I mention this is my favourite section? Fierce all round!

ZULU

This section was designed by a Trinidadian, which you can tell just by looking at the frontline. I like the backline's fringe, headpiece is a typical one except for the animal print inlay. Male is very colourful, reminds me of Peter Elias' 'Masai' in Tribe Trinidad's band.
The frontline has an extremely skimpy wire bra, and though the model must be at least a D cup, I've already been told by a few people that no way are they being seen on the streets of Barbados in THAT! Nice headpiece, but it had to be held all the way down the runway-this always looks bad.

MASAI

Camille McDonald, America's Next Top Model star modeled this female costume. VERY huge backpack, lots of detail on belt. The red and gold with purple accents looks very regal. This one will also be popular with the Bajan hot girls, but the brocade on the bra is quite dated, and a wire bra would have gone down better with the girls. 

Male has lots of accessories-leg pieces, arm pieces, a little headpiece too. I'm loving the shorts on the male costumes since they are more than just board shorts, they are actually detailed at the hems and run a longer length, so they are more of a capri. Fantasy is good news for one of my Twitter followers who wished out loud only yesterday that a Bajan band would give males a proper headpiece.

Overall, this was one of the better band launches Barbados has seen in terms of execution, style, and class. High marks to Fantasy, they can show a few older bands a thing or two!

All photos courtesy Reginald King, Tropic Beauty Barbados

See prices below, a deposit of $75 US secures your costume. Stay tuned to the TrpleF fan page for current band updates and registration info. 

Next up, Baje and Contact Band!

PRICE LIST

ZULU FRONTLINE - 700BDS/350USD

ZULU REGULAR FEMALE - 550BDS/275USD

ZULU MALE - 510BDS/255USD

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AMAZON FEMALE - 550BDS/275USD

AMAZON MALE - 520BDS/260USD

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MANDINGO FEMALE - 550BDS/225USD

Backpack - 100BDS/50USD

***Wire bra available at an additional cost.

MANDINGO MALE - 520BDS/260USD

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MASAI FRONTLINE - 1000BDS/500USD

***Wire bra available at an additional cost.

MASAI REGULAR FEMALE - 560BDS/280USD

MASAI MALE - 510BDS/255USD