Although the forthcoming Cayman Jazz Fest features a number of internationally-renowned acts, the festival also takes pride in having Cayman’s jazz, pop and soul artists share the stage with the globally recognized stars.
Local band Mainstream will kick off the festival with their smooth, cool rhythmical sounds on Thursday, 4 December, at Pedro St. James.
The three-day festival runs through Saturday, 6 December. The festivities begin at the Pedro St. James National Historic Site on Thursday evening, where concertgoers will have the chance to get up close and personal with Mainstream and headliners Gerald Albright, Cassandra Wilson and Terrance Howard.
Mainstream is a trio group comprising of Ed ‘Solly’ Solomon, Leonard Bodden and Irvin ‘Irv’ Banks. The popular local group was formed in Grand Cayman more than 25 years ago by Solly, lead singer and percussionist, along with band mate Leonard Bodden.
Solly owns and operates Arabus, a local boutique in George Town and Irv is a litigation attorney. Leonard is the only member who is a full-time musician and, when not playing gigs, he can be found arranging and developing music for the band.
All three are self taught musicians who have entertained locals and visitors alike for years. The love and dedication these experienced musicians have for their music comes across to the audience who enjoy the band’s unique blend of musical tastes from reggae and calypso favourites to rhythm and blues, soul and jazz standards.
For special events the band is augmented by vocalist Hubert Campbell, a phenomenal vocalist of world class talent. Hubert’s talents are best described as a cross between Luther Vandross and Bob Marley and his soulful voice takes Mainstream to another dimension.
‘Inclusion in this year’s jazz fest is a wonderful experience as it allows Mainstream to reach and entertain audiences on a much larger scale. It is also a great honour to be able to share a stage with entertainers whom we have admired and respected for many years,’ Solly said.
Check next week’s Entertainment for a look at another local band performing at this year’s Jazz Fest.
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