Don’t get it twisted; KLASS is made up of some of the most seasoned musicians the industry has to offer, with close to 100 years of experience between them. With that much knowledge and expertise, there was no way they could have failed – not to mention the extra media boost. It seems that Richie is the mastermind orchestrating all of this, especially on the marketing front. This article is really about their two new singles, but first, I have a few points to make!
With all of KLASS’s success, why haven’t they focused or marketed themselves to a larger audience? If you have an ear for music, you might have noticed that, thus far, KLASS has maintained the essentials of Compas Direct while adding a modern twist. Tabou Combo used the same concept; as they grew, so did their audience. Food for thought.
Now About the Two New Singles
Map Marye
SUBJECT: Let’s be honest here – this song’s theme has been done over and over again. But what makes this version different? KLASS kept the subject but approached it from a new angle. It’s not every day you hear a Haitian man stand up to his mother and challenge her (respectfully, of course). This song won me over because the message is so strong. Many relationships end prematurely simply because of family or friends’ interference. Any man who stands up to his mother respectfully while protesting his love is a winner in my book, and so is this song! Ladies, are we still going to let our men let others speak for them? No way!
MUSIC: I can see Richie’s influence in the text of this song, and Pipo delivered vocally, as always. Some songs need extra keyboard and guitar solos throughout because of weak subject matter, but this song didn’t need any of that. The message was delivered first and stayed as the focus. I’m a lyrics/subject-first person, then musical arrangement after. This song really pleased me.
HIT POTENTIAL: Out of a possible 10, I give this song a solid 9. Keep in mind, I’m a tough critic.
FINAL ASSESSMENT: It’s no “Fe’l Vini Avan,” but I digress.
Ranje Chita’w
SUBJECT: Remember what I said about the first song? Okay! Allow me to think out loud – I don’t care for this song much. You mad? Then sit down and let me explain. I don’t need to hear another Nemours Jean Baptiste-inspired song or another song bigging up already-established bands. I would have been more impressed if they addressed the new generation of up-and-coming musicians that they’ve influenced so they can pass the torch. You can sing about Nemours Jean Baptiste and already-established bands all you want, but the message gets lost when your goal is to save the music and keep it alive.
MUSIC: This song is very catchy, with good arrangements. At first, I thought they hired a different guitarist until I heard Pozo’s trademark guitar licks (I’m a guitar girl). This song’s potential is endless in live settings. Hello, Jean Max Valcourt – I heard you! This song may feel old, but the modern twist makes it feel new all over again.
HIT POTENTIAL: Out of a possible 10, I give this song an 8. Even though I’m not a big fan of the subject, I can see this song being a huge hit among club-goers like Jay Brooklyn, Yanvaloo Brad Nau, and others. They can always improvise on the lyrics during live performances.
FINAL ASSESSMENT: It’s the typical “save our music” awareness tune. I love the catchy phrase “Ranje Chita’w,” but brace yourselves – you’re about to hear it for another year or so.
Footnote:
For all of you wondering how and why KLASS is doing so well, learn this: no one artist, band, PR, or marketing agent can pull off what KLASS is doing at the moment. It’s a collaborative effort, and the main ingredient is none other than “talent.” The secret is simple – talent, experience, money, internet goons, and real fans.
This is the realist PR EVER, because the others can’t afford to tell you the truth.
