A hot night of hits at Fire Fete

The heat was scorching with sizzling performances for Fire Fete: Fire and Spice Edition on Saturday night. Featuring legendary bands Spice and Company and Antigua and Barbuda’s Burning Flames, the entire lineup energised the large crowd gathered on the grounds of Ilaro Court.

The fiery theme was evident throughout the night with most of the acts dressed in vibrant red attire. It was much more than just a typical concert; it was a full-scale production that has been receiving rave reviews thus far. Instead of simply performing their tracks, a spectacle had been curated. Among the standout acts was Barry Chandler with his 2006 Party Monarch-winning Flames. He performed alongside a daring fire-eater, adding a thrilling element. Even the deejay segments were unconventional; during Indian and Chris Gayle’s session, a limbo dancer showcased her dexterity as she manoeuvred under a flaming bar. Adding to the carnival-like atmosphere during the event were acrobatic stilt walkers and shaggy bears.

Backed by De Unit band, and accompanied by energetic troupes of dancers, the Barbadian contingent blazed it up. Not even a broken arm could hinder Lil Rick from delivering his usual high energy as King Bubba joined him to acquaint patrons with Soca Therapy, their Crop Over 2024 collaboration. Appearances by Statement, Biggie Irie, Peter Ram, Mistah Dale, Timmy, TC, Mikey, Blood, RPB, and Edwin Yearwood all added more fuel to the fire.

By the time Spice and Company hit the stage, patrons were in full party mode and they provided a phenomenal show as expected. Fans enthusiastically joined in as lead singer Alan Sheppard dared them to Lift Ya Leg Up and they were more than willing to get In De Congaline and go Round and Round. As the heat mounted, the challenge to Take Ya Clothes Off might have been tempting. Keeping the energy high throughout their hour-long set, they included hits like You Are Always on My Mind, Give Them Freedom, Bob’s Song, Rastaman and Guns.

Burning Flames ignited the crowd from the first strains of Workey Workey. Taking the audience on a nostalgic journey with tunes like Swinging Engine, I Command You, Iron Band, and Mash It Up. The energy was reminiscent of past Calypso Spectacular and Cohobbolopot events as they entertained with Carnival Train and Bicycle.

Event producer Adrian Clarke told Barbados TODAY: “The main things we expected came to fruition – create an event that will be remembered for all the right reasons. Nothing is perfect, but last night must have been quite close if the sentiments of patrons were anything to go by. Having our local stars do as they did was expected and loved by all. They are really stars. Then, having Spice and Company and Burning Flames… made the event an even greater success for us.”

He added, “Maybe next year we will get some financial assistance. I thank the sponsors, every one of them; NCF for their timely assistance must be noted, and my Ocean Gem team who made sure all was correct. Tonya, Alana, and Natalie were superb.”

(STT)