Mikie Bennett, head of Grafton, talks with the group
It is a most over-used word but it best describes the experience we had at Grafton Studios, the domain of Mikie Bennett, known Jamaican producer, song writer, singer, you name it. What's the word? AWESOME!
The vibe was just right and the group was just right. Mr. Bennett welcomed us, taking the time to talk to us about his studio, Jamaican music in general, and his experiences. The group was a lovely mix of music enthusiasts and music practitioners with an international flavour and we had discussions in French, Spanish, and even a tip of Haitian kreyol (creole), thrown in for good measure. We hung out in the courtyard (with the cat) and had Miss Jelly's amazing lunch of stew chicken, brown stew fish, rice and peas and soup.
Lucky for us, the place was crawling with artistes and musicians, from Dean Fraser, to Konshens, to Steven Golding, to Natel. The highlight of the entire trip was being able to listen to Duane Stephenson rehearse with the band. What a beautiful voice he has! Again, AWESOME! Plus the ladies in the group got to add some vocals (bad, very bad) to a track in a mini-recording session. Trust me, it was hilarious. What's the word again?
The sad part of course was having to leave. But, we go again on April 24, 2010 so it's not too bad.
Can't wait.
The vibe was just right and the group was just right. Mr. Bennett welcomed us, taking the time to talk to us about his studio, Jamaican music in general, and his experiences. The group was a lovely mix of music enthusiasts and music practitioners with an international flavour and we had discussions in French, Spanish, and even a tip of Haitian kreyol (creole), thrown in for good measure. We hung out in the courtyard (with the cat) and had Miss Jelly's amazing lunch of stew chicken, brown stew fish, rice and peas and soup.
Lucky for us, the place was crawling with artistes and musicians, from Dean Fraser, to Konshens, to Steven Golding, to Natel. The highlight of the entire trip was being able to listen to Duane Stephenson rehearse with the band. What a beautiful voice he has! Again, AWESOME! Plus the ladies in the group got to add some vocals (bad, very bad) to a track in a mini-recording session. Trust me, it was hilarious. What's the word again?
The sad part of course was having to leave. But, we go again on April 24, 2010 so it's not too bad.
Can't wait.
Duane Stephenson at rehearsal
Members of the group in a recording session
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