Songs
Track no. 1 of the CD PAN! The Steeldrum Odyssey
These are just preview samples. You need a valid account and be logged in to hear the full tracks.
- artist:Various
- release year:2016
- country:Trinidad and Tobago
- formats:CD (Compact Disc)
- record posted by:Maturity Music Limited
- label:harmonia mundi SAS
This beautiful collection, including a substantial leaflet illustrated with various photos, tells the sage of the steeldrum, the unique percussion instrument which was invented in the 1940s in Trinidad and Tobago , and which is knows locally as the as 'the pan'. The DVD contains a docudrama which bring alive its eventful history by explaining the social context of its development, up until the establishment of steelbands, impressive orchestras which can include over a hundred musicians and play all kinds of music.
As for the CD, it comprises of the soundtrack of the film as well as a few bonus tracks. The 'pan' stars in multiple contexts, both modern and 'vintage'. it can be heard on instrumental tracks, solos as pert of various ensembles, but also combined with Jamie XX's electro music and of course along side Calypso Rose, the queen of the calypso. The old favourite, Street Calypso, performed by Lola, Gordon Cyrus, Junior Don & 105 combo, is at the crossing point between the instrument's past, present and future, or in other words its cultural history ad its modernity.
In pictures and in music, PAN! The Steeldrum Odyssey teaches us how the pan has been a distinctive symbol for the culture of a whole country, before spreading and sending its 'lust for life' all around the world. This no doubt explains why there are now thousands of steelbands on every continent, from Europe to Japan to the United States.