
Join Calypso on Saturday, May 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the John Van Duzer Theatre at Cal Poly Humboldt for this must-see concert.
The Humboldt Calypso Band prides itself on maintaining an accurate and authentic connection to the roots of the steel band movement and the innovative musicians of the Caribbean. The band is dedicated to the performance of traditional and contemporary music from Trinidad and Tobago, Africa, Brazil, Cuba, and the United States. Through their 39-year history of performances at Cal Poly Humboldt, the Humboldt Calypso Band has become a virtual “institution” at the University and stands as one of the most popular world-music groups in Northern California. This show will feature several high-energy arrangements in Calypso, Soca, and Latin American styles, all featuring the virtuosic Trinidadian steelpan soloist Chuckaree.
"Johann Chuckaree is a superlative musician! He has a unique style, and his soloing skills are unmatched. He performs with infinite energy and supreme artistry, and his playing will leave the audience in awe. The Calypso Band has been working hard on a tremendous set of steel band music to accompany Johann for this show, and we cannot wait to present it to you! It will be beyond great," says Humboldt Calypso Steelband Director Eugene Novotney.
One of the most respected steelpan artists of his generation, Chuckaree of Trinidad and Tobago, is a star perpetually on the rise. A dynamic musician and recording artist, Chuckaree has been critically acclaimed for his global steelpan performances and his multiple professional recordings devoted to his sweet love for Trinidad’s national instrument, the steelpan.
Chuckaree is a longtime member of one of the most famous steel bands in the Caribbean, the Phase II Pan Groove of Woodbrook, Port-of-Spain, and he has been critically acclaimed for his outstanding soloing skills and his virtuosic technical expertise. He has enjoyed touring the world as a member of Trinidadian cultural contingents, and he performs regularly as a Cultural Ambassador for the Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Tourism & Culture. He has showcased his talents throughout the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, India, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
Chuckaree released his first CD recording in 2007 at the age of 18, and later, his second CD "In De Yard" in 2012. He has also been featured on numerous recordings with legendary Calypsonian, David Rudder, and steelpan legend, Len "Boogsie" Sharpe, and in live performances with Machel Montano, Voice, Neval Chatelal, Raymond Ramnarine & Farmer Nappy, among others. Known for his musical versatility, Chuckaree is also an accomplished pianist, keyboardist, and drummer. In addition, he is the co-manager of Indigisounds, a unique high-quality Indigenous Caribbean sample sounds library used by many international music producers and arrangers.
"This show will be incredible! The Calypso Band is so fortunate to have Johann Chuckaree playing with us, and everyone in attendance will be stunned by his virtuosic musicianship and his positive vibe. This is a show not to be missed,” says Novotney.
Concert tickets are $10 general and $5 senior/child/Cal Poly Humboldt student with a current ID. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at tickets.humboldt.edu/dance-music-and-theatre