Every Haitian should be required to do this once in their lives! A beautiful, warm Haitian evening, with incredible music. The setting is Irvin Plaza, in the heart of Manhattan, under the direction of John Altino Papa Jube. Under one roof, gathered some of the best of what Haitian music has to offer: Reginald Policard, Beethova Obas, Mozayik, Mushi Widmaier, Ginou Oriol, Chardavoine, Jowee Omicil, James Germain, Joel Widmaier and The Altino Brothers – There wasn’t a foot not prompted to rhythmic cadance of this new revival movement of Haitian Jazz.

There was a bigger presence of the mainstream media, compared to the very small participation of the local Haitian media, when I asked one of the legend artists for his view on why he thinks the Haitian press was so lacking, his reply was very simple: “ this is a movement that is well beyond the level of understanding from most of our so-called –media…or perhaps they are afraid to face up to the reality of what a true instrumentalist should be.”

So many highlights, so many emotions, I don’t even know where to start. The event started about half and hour late, but the audience didn’t seem to mind because the DJ kept them entertained with a wide variety of classic jazz tunes.

Many in the audience had expected, James Germain to start with the Haitian national anthem because that’s his trademark, but instead, the honor was given to the Altino Brothers who did a great job with a classical version of “La Dessalinienne”.

The young Jowee Omicil was the opening act. He lived up to his billing as an up coming prolific Sax player. He was shooting sparks from his Sax as he moved back and forth on the stage in a killer set that brought the audience to its feet. Than came Chardavoine with his band, cylinder firing, guitar sizzling, causing the audience to swell in appreciation as even other musicians filled the left wings of the stage to watch this established and respected guitarist deliver a stellar performance.

Mozayik was like a day of celebratory exuberance, with the rebirth of Afro/Haitian jazz-providing an entertaining set of Afro Haitian rhythms. Perhaps the explosice centerpiece was the well-choegraphed dancing set by dance instructor, Nadia Dieudonne, who resembled a music director, directing the band not with her baton but with her dance steps to the traditional Haitian’s “yanvaloo” movement. Whelmyr J.P on piano, Gashford on drums spiced up the atmosphere, as the audience was getting tempeted to get up and hit the dance floor. Unfortunately, the setting was not appropriate for such celebration.

One of the highlights of the night was James Germain’s performance. It was hard to keep a dry eye as emotions were running high. James, treated his performance as if it was a recital of his vocal chord. By now everyone had already settled in their seats and you can actually hear a pin drop, as the audience listened attentively to the fascinating, soft and swingy voice of James, as he sings “Soley”. I was so concentrated on his performance that I almost forgot to take his picture.

Many thoughts that James Germain’s performance was going to be a tough act to follow; well, not if you have one of the Altino Brothers to do the favor. Rob Altino, walked straight up the stage and headed toward his weapon, which is a piano sitting at the right side of the stage. He performed a piece, only using his left hand, which was originally written by a Russian composer, who never had a chance to record the piece because the recording device was not yet invented. With his right hand, tucked behind his back, Rob moved his fingers on those black and white keys, that many would think that he was using not only his both hands and fingers but also his toes. He gave a very interesting story how he mastered his left-hand playing skills, by explaining that, he had broken his right hand and could not use it to play the piano, so he took advantage of the situation and started to play using only his left hand until he mastered it as if it was his right hand. He received a well-deserved standing ovation.

Ginou Oriol, the only female in the line-up gave a very beautiful rendition, which reminded me irresistibly of the younger Emeline Michel, who could not participate, because she was on tour in Haiti, and would not have had enough time to rehearse; however, she still showed up to lend her support. Ginou’s range and warmth were revealed in a siesta-like exultant as she sung “Yonyon” and a few other traditional tunes. It was my first time seeing her perform live.

Beethova Obas one of the most conscious (angaje) songwriters of our time, teamed up with his younger brother Manno, gave a wake-up call to the audience that was getting tired, because it had gotten into the early part of Sunday morning. They performed, the famous song “ayiti pa’p peri” and a few other troubadour style pieces.

This was really a special gig for both Mushy and Joel Widmaier. They traveled all the way from Haiti. With an all original set, you can really feel the joy as they pour out their hearts into the music. A wonderful performance that left the audience in no doubt why Mushy was named the top 10 best piano player of the Caribbean.

The Godfather of Haitian Jazz, Reginald Policard had the honor of closing the show. Even though he did not get to enjoy the presence of the full audience because it was close to 2 AM and some have already exited the venue, that did not stop Reginald from entertaining what was left of the audience. With his head focusing on the movement of his fingers on the Piano, Mr. Policard, who is a very shy person, who hardly talks, really let his fingers do all of the talking; and the audience seemed to have understood the message, by the standing ovation he received.

Overall the sound quality was really good, allowing every instrument to be heard, both as a featured one and in its contribution to the overall system. A celebration of friendship and close sense of community, between all social classes within the Haitian Diaspora. It sets a tone of goodwill and togetherness that one can hope will extend beyond the end of the festival, but to all Haitians.

A short bio of the performing artists from the program:

Beethova Obas

One of the most distinguished, Conscious and prolific songwriter/singer from Haiti. Beethova has been a true favorite in Haiti and abroad for many years, his music brings forth many different flavors, he fuses Haitian music, jazz, Brazilian rhythms, all beautifully covered with a very smooth vocals, and very conscious and positive lyrics that truly touch the heart of the people. He is a very well known artist all over the world, he has toured many parts of the world representing Haiti, with his guitar in hand.

Reginald Policard

Reginald Policard began playing the piano at a very early age. He was one of the original members for all time famous group “Caribbean Sextet”, which was one of the earlier groups who attempted to fuse jazz with Haitian music. Reginald had a great career with Caribbean Sextet throughout the late 70,s and 80’s, then he embarked his solo career as Reginald Policard. He has released 4 successful albums and managed to establish himself as one of the most prolific Jazz musicians in Haiti.

Mozayik

Mozayik musical concept drawsf upon the rich legacy of traditional Afro-Haitian rhythms, blending them with the instrumentation, melodic/harmonic sensibilities and improvisation of jazz. Mozayik also cites Cuban and Brazilian jazz as sources of inspiration and trhe group’s original compositions show that the culture of Haiti has similar musical riches to offer. The group draws from a diverse array of other influences; classical, jazz, gospel, and funk are all part of the Mozayik sound. The members of Mozayik bring together multiple talents and years of performing and recording experience. Mozayik’s self-titled debut recording was released to rave reviews, appearing in numerous newspapers and music magazines such as “ The Haitian Times”, “Beat”, and Haiti’s “Le Nouvelliste” . The group was also featured on Public Radio International’s “ The World” program. In 2004, Mozayik released their second self-produced CD, “Rhythmic Reflections.” This dynamic new recording was picked up by NYC Jazz label, Zoho Music, and re-released as “ Haitian Creole jazz” in May 2005.

Mushi Widmaier

Who’s real name is Jude Herbert Ronald Gouse, lives in Miami Florida and has mulititude of talent. He ahs been honored at The Jazz Workshop in Martinique “Fondation Culure Creation” and the “Centre Martiniquais D’Action Culturelle” (1993); There times Jury member of American Airlines Music contest; Musical composer Contest Award for the 150th anniversary of Petion-Ville (Hymn) 1981; First prize winner of International contest “Phonurgia Nova” for Best jingles, Radio Beds, Best New themes (1997); Chosen by The Journalist & Critic General Merceron (jazz magazine) as being among the top 10 best piano player of the Caribbean. Mushy has also performed at many international locations such as Wednesday Jazz at Le Bistro; Electronic Music Concert with peter Bartmans for Yamaha; Fete de La Musique (Swing club); Emeline Michel tour concerts throughout Haiti, USA, Canada, France, Japan; Zeklet tour: USA, Canada, Europe; Festival de jazz Martinique and more…

Ginou Oriol

Ginou Oriol is one of the greatest vocalist alive today. For years now Ginou has been bringing our culture to the world, even recording her last album entitled “Under a Spell” at the Kannabe Cultural hall in Japan, with the participation of renown Jazz pianist eddy Prophete and Japanese bassist Tasuhiko Kimura. She has even brought our music to Capital Hill in Washington DC.

Chardavoine

Throughout the entertainment industry, Chardavoine has established an exceptional reputation as the guitarist and live performer- making him one of the most sought after artist today. As a seasoned musician, he has carved a niche for himself in NY, and is quickly gaining popularity in other cities around the United States and overseas. He is featured on the soundtrack of the much anticipated, Fall 1999 release of the Universal Pictures movie “Best Man”, directed by Malcolm lee (brother of Spike Lee).

Jowee Omicil

Jowee was introduced to the Saxophone to play as part of the music ministry in his father’s church but it became so much as it was an instant love affair between and the Alto sax. Just three short years following his first introduction to the Alto, jowee was accepted on Scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he majored in Music Education. It was there he added the Soprano Sax to his arsenal of musical weapons. 1998 was pivotal for Jowee for it was that year he met his mentor and friend Kenny Garrett. He signed a full endoresement with, the very distinguished parisian saxophone company, P. Mauriat, Paris. Armed with the new instruments, Jowee has kept on his journey of sharing with the people. He is currently continuing his work as a Music Educator at Bronx Preparatory Charter School. Jowee is offered new church home in New York as Musica Assistant at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Brooklyn. Four years after his original recording, “Let’s Do This” was released on March 21, 2006 to much industry acclaim.

The Altino Brothers

To have one prodigy in a family is rare, but the Altino Brothers are that reality. Born into a Christian family, these two brothers were always exposed to music from their father who is also a pianist, and uncles who plays guitar. They took serious interest into classical music at a very early age, with the guidance of their father; they were able to thrive right through University and got their Masters in music. They have released a cd recently,

James Germain

One of the most prolific vocalist out of Haiti, James is a natural singer, a nationa monument. Incredible talent, who have traveled the world, between Haiti, Europe, and the USA. He is an absolute force in the music community.