Friday 26 May 2017

Skyy Rock Festival 2017 Review

Skyy Rock Festival, REDM, Dax Carter, Orange Sky

Rockers living on a rock named Trinidad in the Caribbean would hear "Rock Show" and figure that’s going to be three maybe four random bands in a little bar, with some makeshift lighting and that's it, unless, it's what they would dare call a "Big Show". Then, add another 3 bands, some more lights and a shirt booth and call it a "Big Show". Aside from that we never really had a next step a “Massive Show” but we might have just found... the BEST SHOW Trinidad has seen in quite some time in Skyy Rock Festival.

This event isn't your run of the mill concert. A true step in the right direction. Skyy Rock's three day event split into a one day conference and a two day concert that enables artists to deliver better performances and continues to serves as a symbol of a unified rock community.

"It was a way to bridge business and talent. Presenters talked about what you should consider with going to work with any manager. The trials of finding a compatible manager who will respect your work while trying to boost sales and follow the trends. The roll of promoters, how they are a positive way forward and a way to bring all young talent together and build off each other positively. Legal advice and COTT booths with information for artists about becoming registered or copyrighted material and private session giving one on one consults." Elizabeth (REDM Representative)

Lineups for both days of the concert offered more diverse listening options. Day one being skewed toward Hard Rock and Metal bands for the head bangers and the rain dancers. However the event did have a lackluster opening. The first band was simply introduced and begun singing, no grand opening or spectacle to mark the occasion. As the concert progressed there was more on stage as far as effects, give aways and competitions went, improving the overall ambiance keeping the audience involved. The open air stage set for chaos brought on strong performances. The consortium of bands like Klavuim and Guyanese rockers Aeons of Disorder and Feed the Flames answered the call delivering some of the stronger performances. As expected Lynchpin held the forte, throwing down a heavy performance that rocked the crowd into a mosh for the rest of the night. The Supernormal Band, though carrying on the hype with a "Big Big Gorilla" and even Lynchpin joining them for a song did not carry their usual powerful vibe.

Sievan Siewsarran - Lynchpin, REDM, Skyy Rock

"By the time the first band came on the stage, there was a decent audience. The vibes was nice all around, the climax being Lynchpin. By then all hell broke loose. Supernormal also came to add fuel to the fire, and the crowd lapped it all up." Jason (REDM Representative)


The second day, dubbed by some as mellow day put out a relaxing vibe. The chill melodies kicked off earlier than day one with some of the performers not really having much of a crowd however as the night passed the crowd came with it and synced with the vibes of some of the bands. Cosmic Rebel got things going, with their great vibes, Guyanese band, Creole Rock held it strong, followed by a groovy collaboration with Josie. Alter Rootz and Orange Sky delivered a real local rock experience but the night was snatched by Incert Coin, their performance had the ladies screaming ... literally ... into the mic.

Incert Coin, REDM, Skyy Rock

"The go to show if you're into rock and you live in Trinidad, this year things felt a lot more refined. From the better audio quality, to the new stage location, to the food and the additional stalls and stores for patrons to visit, it was a overall better experience. From Cosmic Rebel to Incert Coin and everyone that played in between they all ripped off our faces, some special mentions need to be had for BUCK who's insane guitar shredding skills were a definite highlight along with creole rock from Guyana and of course the vape competition." Sean (REDM Representative)

Most of the concerts performers were near goddamn spot on. DJ Glen & Co kept the vibe high between sets and sound was handled by Fusion TT and audio was great for the bands of course sometimes things don’t go according to plan and in this instance its name was the Environment Management Authority (EMA). The EMA made several threats against the show causing the DJ to drop the volume of the music between performances. The crowd, not liking this had their "FUCK THE EMA" chant in full effect for both days of the event.

Between the two days, day one seemed to have the larger crowd, this could just be the difference between a Saturday and a Sunday concert but it seems likely that the heavier day of rock had a greater appeal but this is the first time a real two day event has had a day geared toward alternative rock. Hopefully the next one would have a more positive turnout.

With great performances, good weather, enthusiastic promoters and a growing rock scene. This show is definitely one to look out for next year and Schmidt Entertainment promises an even greater show and we are sure to see drastic improvements amongst the bands after the influence of the conference. Be sure to check out our albums covering the event on Facebook.


       Skyy Rock Festival, REDMSkyy Rock Festival, REDM

Skyy Rock Festival, REDM, Skyy Rock Festival, REDM, Dax Carter


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