Heineken Small Stage gives hope - Smaller acts show class

Nagra Plunkett, Assignment Coordinator

WESTERN BUREAU:

The calibre of home-grown entertainers who performed on the Heineken Small Stage during the 2011 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival is an indication that the future of the music industry is in good hands.

During the climax of the exciting three-day festival, several acts, including groups, performed for music-hungry patrons.

Former Rising Stars finalist Shanty-I, who was introduced to Jamaica at 16 years old during the 2004 season of the televised show, has blossomed into a promising singer.

The 22-year-old wowed the audience with her powerful vocals and some tracks from her upcoming album, scheduled for release in July.

"I was travelling a lot, doing background vocals for Beres Hammond," she told The Gleaner.

"I am easing out of that now, and making the transition into being on my own again."

In addition to her original tracks, Shanty-I also did Jill Scott's A Long Walk; Bob Marley's Trench Town Rock and old-time favourite Summer Time.

The Hard Knock Band - protégés of the Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts in St Andrew, did a repertoire of instrumentals and vocals that spanned the mento, reggae and rhythm and blues genres.

Bryan Art gave a commendable performance with his social commentary tunes.

The highlight of the evening, however, was Leba Hibbert, daughter of veteran reggae singer Toots Hibberts. She should have been on the main stage.

During her energetic set, she belted out old hits including Al Green's So In Love With You and Either One Of Us by Gladys Knight.

There were screams and applause from the patrons.

Leba is set to whet musical appetites with her debut album Intoxicated.

The 15-track album will showcase productions from Sly and Robbie, Jimmy Cliff, Pam Hall and Turbulance.