G-Syndicate fans, grateful to be back on the outside, enjoyed a free open-air concert on the grounds of Golden Grove Great House in St. Philip.
Set in the gazebo and in keeping with the mandated safety protocols, patrons of Sunday’s event were appropriately spaced as they relished an evening of beautifully delivered music by the vocal band. The experience of Get Syndicated: Vocal Encounters was accentuated with a complimentary glass of wine and delicious cupcakes from Yumz and Crumbz Bakery.
The intimate gathering thoroughly enjoyed the diverse segments presented by the band. They told a complex story about relationships addressing love and love lost.
Through their humorous interactions, they maintained the largely female audience’s attention for just over three hours. Their well-chosen set list included favourites like Barrington Levy’s Be Strong and Tarrus Riley’s Sorry is A Sorry Word.
In one of their sessions they focussed solely on locally produced music. Opening with their version of Philip 7’s Beautiful Surprise was the first treat. Also featured in this singalong session was Splashband’s Slow Dance and Joaquin’s Tiny Winey.
The time-appropriate How Many More by John King was added. They also added their trademark flair to spouge selections You Are No Good by Jackie Opel and Richard Stoute’s Vehicle. The audience got involved with Sweeter Than a Sno-cone mimicking the sound of the horn on a sno-cone cart at their request. Rupee’s Helpless was also included.
Each band member showcased their own unique talent. Lead singer Derek Marshall was especially impressive with his impeccable rendition of Jill’s Scott’s He Loves Me as he hit those falsetto notes precisely.
Tribute was paid to the former manager of the group, Celeste Marshall, who recently passed away. In her memory, the band sang the melancholy Yesterday by The Beatles. However, the mood lifted when they continued with a series of some of her favourite songs. This section included SWV’s 90s favourite Love Will Be Right Here and Michael Jackson’s hits Human Nature and Billie Jean.
In their final appearance, G-Syndicate featured some of their original material. They delivered old favourites like Gin and Tonic and newer material like Chemistry. They got the ladies’ blood pumping with their provocative, hip-thrusting on Good Lovin’. Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy some yet-to-be-released material. They closed out the concert with I Got this Feeling.
Spoken word artist Cyndi Marshall made a guest appearance. She revealed that she will release an EP of her work. The CD which is called Cyndicated is set to be released on her mother’s Celeste Marshall’s birthday later this year. Poet StonedWithCupid delivered two socially conscious pieces Black Girl Magic and Dear Black Woman.
Rhesa Garnes joined G-Syndicate for a rendition of Queen Ifrica’s Lioness on the Rise.
Host Jefferson Best kept the show running smoothly. Some lucky patrons were rewarded with G-Syndicate branded facemasks and T-shirts produced by A to Z Custom Wear. (STT)
