‘Aura Fa Crop Ova’ was the chant by the audience last weekend in the Sheraton Mall car park for the second edition of Battle of the Bands: Best of the Best.
Last year’s Battle of the Bands winner, Erup The Band, was dethroned by the two-year-old Aura Experience.
The colourful costume designs, the high energy and captivating performances of the models had the small crowd gathered in a frenzy. Locals were intoxicated with tidbits of the Grand Kadooment experience that were shared as the dancers jammed to some of the season’s most popular songs to win the $1,500 cash prize.
Also participating in the competition was Wild and Exotic Grand Kadooment Band, Eunoia and Erup The Band.
Aura Experience has grown in popularity due to Barbadian megastar Rihanna who certified the band with her infamous quote ‘Aura For Crop Ova’. Simon Gill of Aura told Bajan Vibes that the band was pleased with the positive response from the public and it was constantly looking for ways to improve the jump experience.
“We are still trying to work and bring new energy and a new vibe… that we are going to try to put on the road as well,” she said.
Gill also commended the costumes by the competition as there was an increase in the incorporation and the fit of carnival wear for all body types.
“Instead of competition, it seems [there is] more… the island is coming together and generally stepping up their game. They really cater to everyone, all sizes, complexions and even the more conservative people can jump comfortably. I honestly like the innovation that is coming out in the costumes,” Gill said.
Marketing officer for Sheraton Mall Danielle Singh revealed that the annual competition was part of the mall’s Art of the People Initaitive, which highlighted artistes of all genres of the creative arts.
The competition also included performances by Kirk Brown, Teff Hinkson, Jagwa De ChampAltuh Ego Alter Fifth and Risers Band from the Barbados Community College.
