King Kino and his dynamic band, Phantoms, descended upon the Washington, D.C. area for a continuation of the 2000 concert series, leaving a lasting impression on the Haitian-American community. After seeing a number of established Konpa stars, fans were curious about what this rising group would bring. Promoters Neg Lakay and Chez YonYon had promised an unforgettable soirée, and Phantoms delivered on that promise.
As the night began, the excitement in the air was palpable. At the forefront, King Kino took command of the stage, flanked by the enchanting Princess Georgy and the equally captivating Cassandra. Together, they created a powerful synergy, bringing a fresh, modern edge to traditional Konpa. Kino’s voice, unmistakably unique in the Konpa scene, resonated with the crowd as he introduced a new flavor of the genre that young attendees eagerly embraced. Phantoms, under Kino’s leadership, has successfully blended Konpa with elements of reggae and hip-hop, creating a vibrant sound that appeals to both traditionalists and a new generation of Haitian-Americans.
Princess Georgy, formerly of Zin, brought her signature charisma and unmatched vocals to the performance, wowing the crowd alongside Cassandra. Their vocal prowess and fluid dance moves captivated everyone in the audience, particularly the men, as chants of “Georgy, Georgy” echoed throughout the venue. Georgy’s energy and performance were as strong as ever, proving that her departure from Zin hasn’t slowed her down one bit. Her chemistry with Kino was evident, setting the stage for what many hope will be a lasting partnership.
The musicianship of Phantoms was equally impressive. Each band member contributed to a seamless performance, with tight rhythms and a steady groove that kept the dance floor full from the first note to the last. The group’s ability to pay homage to the origins of Konpa while infusing it with modern elements showcased their versatility and talent. The crowd, dressed to impress and arriving in waves, never missed a beat, dancing the night away as the band delivered an electrifying performance.
One of the standout moments of the evening was when King Kino serenaded the audience with the heartfelt line, “Don’t you know I love you, I want to make love to you.” The women in the crowd couldn’t help but swoon, with not a single seat occupied during that number. The connection between Phantoms and their audience was undeniable, and by the end of the night, it was clear that the D.C. community had warmly embraced them.
While the evening was one of celebration, it also marked a bittersweet farewell. The Washington, D.C. area bid adieu to DJ Blast, the beloved host of the cable show “Rapping with DJ Blast,” who is returning to New York to pursue his dream of forming his own band. As a significant figure in the local music scene, DJ Blast’s departure will be felt, but the community wishes him well on his journey.
As the night came to a close, Phantoms had not only entertained but also solidified their place in the hearts of many. With King Kino and Princess Georgy at the helm, the band is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of Konpa while staying true to its roots. Fans left the venue hoping that this dynamic duo would continue to create more hits in the years to come.
