The 2005 Fos Baron Festival, held just before Labor Day, showcased a vibrant display of Haitian music, despite a few logistical hiccups. The festival was well-attended, and the organizers managed to adjust the schedule on the fly to accommodate performances from several top bands, though unfortunately, Nu Look and Tabou Combo were no-shows. Tabou Combo had conflicting commitments, and while Nu Look was scheduled to appear, they did not make it for undisclosed reasons.
Sweet Mickey opened the festival, setting a lively tone while keeping his performance family-friendly in front of his children. His act included a playful dig at Shabba and a rendition of “Why Do You Say You Love Me,” originally by Nu Look, to the delight of fans.
Following Sweet Mickey, K-Dans took the stage, delivering their well-rehearsed set without a hitch. Didi Santana’s impressive guitar skills stood out, although their choice to perform “But Ki Lang Ou Pale” seemed less suited for the festival atmosphere.
Krezi Mizik had limited stage time, performing just one song. Their performance was competent, but it was difficult to fully assess their impact with such a brief appearance.
T-Vice, however, stole the show within their short timeframe. They brought high energy and carnival vibes, culminating in their popular “helicopter song.” A notable moment occurred when Roberto, from T-Vice, expressed frustration over the restricted performance time directly to the audience, which stirred a mixed reaction from the crowd. His uncle, Pierrot Alka, also voiced his concerns over the impact of such limitations on the band’s reputation.
Carimi’s performance was energetic, engaging the audience thoroughly with their song “Kidnapping.” However, like others, they were constrained by time, which cut their set short before they could delve into more of their repertoire.
Kreyol La followed, managing to engage the crowd despite the preceding tension and the anticipation for Djakout Mizik. Ti Joe of Kreyol La made efforts to smooth over the earlier disruption by reassuring the audience, showing commendable professionalism.
Djakout Mizik wrapped up the festival under pressure due to earlier delays and security trying to cut their performance short. They adapted well, delivering a memorable, though brief, set that left the audience wanting more.
Pros of the Festival: The festival demonstrated significant potential with higher attendance than the previous year, suggesting it could become a lasting tradition. The array of artists and the enthusiastic crowd highlighted the festival’s capability to celebrate Haitian music vibrantly.
Cons of the Festival: The absence of two major bands was a disappointment, and the altered timings prevented some bands from fully showcasing their talent. Additionally, the event’s start was delayed, and entry prices fluctuated at the gate, which could deter some attendees.
Overall, the 2005 Fos Baron Festival earns four stars out of five, promising improvement and growth in the coming years as it continues to foster the rich cultural tapestry of Haitian music.
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