On Thursday night I attended Phantoms’ rehearsal at the regular locale on Flatbush Ave in Brooklyn. Of course if you’ve ever been to one Phantoms’ rehearsals you know anything that goes in there is never expected or familiar in this gathering. Medina, Cloolie, Clinton, Cassandra, Kino, Jensen, Lemy, Captain Jean, Max Jean and the rest of the members where there jamming it up. Also guest artist Rated R and formerly of NYAS, Bono. The room was packed with people who wanted to enjoy themselves or who were just curious to see what physical reality the ghost of Phantoms were going to bring the following night.
On Friday, June 2nd, Phantoms did not disappoint. The rain refuse to let down but the true Konpa and Phantoms’ fans were not afraid of the rain, “it’s only water” I heard most of them saying. Upon arrival to the place at around 1:30AM, the Cabaret show was going on. The setting, the lighting, the dancers delivered a spectacular show leaving a lot of attendees at awe. While the Cabaret brought something unique and never done before, it was Phantoms who lite up the night. The name Phantoms is truly an illusion because this band has such an aura about them, you can’t help but feel their essence, take notice of their actuality, and existence. Their strongest point is indeed the togetherness they share on stage. When they come together they are truly a unit, a force to be reckon with.
Had the rain let up earlier during the day, I think the show would have made a bigger impact. Even with the rain, supporter showed up and many of them went home very satisfied. Phantoms did their best although you can tell they were a little disappointed at the weather. Because of the continuing pour of rain throughout the day, one of their members, Sharon wasn’t able to make it because she had an accident earlier and was still a little edgy.
Like the true performers they are, the show must go on and on it did. They started their set with DANGER. Cassandra, Medina, Rated R, and Clinton took the floor and delivered DANGER safely. Bono came on and sung one of Phantoms classic, Romeo et Julliet (Ki sa ki Lanmou) beautifully. Tantan did his Pam Pam Pam while Coolie and Medina rocked I want you back. The King came on and rocked while accompanied by some of the Cabaret dancers.
The night ended on a good note. The atmosphere was great. This was a great experience for party goers who deserved the needed change. This was a total step up for the HMI and I applaud Phantoms for taking the music to a higher level with class and sophistication.
