Oct. 6, 2006 – Just how good can it get? Doubly good? Let us tell you! Frederiksted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands is definitely the place to be…especially in the month of October, and especially if you're a lover of jazz and jumpin' parties! On Saturday, Oct. 28, The Frederiksted Economic Development Association Inc. will throw a 40th Birthday Party! And what a party it's going to be! In celebration of our good friend's 40th year as part of the St. Croix Family, FEDA is hosting a celebration in honor of the St. Croix Oil Refinery. Beginning in 1966 as Hess Oil Virgin Islands, HOVIC, and now HOVENSA LLC, we are celebrating 40 years of refining and 40 years of a good friend and a good neighbor!
A Special Edition Sunset Jazz in Frederiksted is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28. Beginning at 5:30 p.m. and opening with the incredible VI Rhythm Section, this special concert is kicking everything up more than a few notches! VI Rhythm Section showcases the talent of an incomparable group of musicians. Composer, arranger, leader and bassist for the group is Marsvyn David. Joining Marsvyn on stage is Dimitri "Pikey" Copemann on saxophone, guitarist Elvis Pedro, drummer Toby Derima, Don Moors on vibes and Charles Farrell on congas with a special guest appearance by steel pannist Michael Belgrave. What a line up!
Next on the stage, FEDA and Sunset Jazz in Frederiksted are thrilled to feature Jazz Flute Legend Dave Valentin and his Quintet! (This writer gets chills of excitement just thinking about it!)
Even in the genre of music where virtuosity is the rule and not the exception, Dave Valentin stands out. The recent history of contemporary jazz and Latin music has produced scant few instrumentalists as singularly talented, artistically accomplished and popular as this remarkable musician, composer, arranger, and bandleader. Indeed, for almost two decades, the role of the flute in Latin jazz has all but been defined by this native New Yorker (with strong Puerto Rican roots), whose total command of Latin and non-Latin styles makes him unique in the world today.
In 1979, at the age of 26, he recorded his first album as a leader, initiating an uncommonly successful and long-running association with GRP, a contemporary jazz label noted for its all-star roster and pioneering role in digital recording technology. The partnership produced 16 albums and solidified Valentin's position as one of the best selling Latin instrumental artists of the era, as documented by a Grammy and selection by the readers of JAZZIZ Magazine for seven consecutive years as the top flutist in jazz. Combine the breezy sound of flute with a funky, tropical, Latin undercurrent and you have the unique sound of Dave Valentin. Tearing down the barriers between contemporary, smooth jazz and Latin jazz, Valentin's music is at once smooth and spicy, and bright, yet cool. Word to the wise: Don't miss this Special Edition Sunset Jazz in Frederisksted! Reminder: Bring those folding chairs and blankets as seating is at a minimum in the park! Come early to get your favorite spot! FEDA will be hosting cash bars, and numerous vendors will be providing food for sale.
Immediately following DAVE VALENTIN's performance will be a world-class fireworks exhibition! If you like the 4th of July, just wait until you see these fireworks! But, the party doesn't stop there.
Beginning at 8 p.m., Harbor Night in Frederiksted will kick in, featuring Express Band, Sabor Latino, The 2006 Road March Champions-Stroka Band, Iyah Lion Reggae Band, Eddie Russel Quelbe Latin Jazz Band and DJ Jabbar. And don't forget, some of the premier dancers, vendors, and street entertainers in the Virgin Islands. The resurrection of one of St. Croix's favorite street parties is certain to bring our friends and neighbors out of their houses and west to Frederiksted to dance, mingle, eat, drink and have a good time!
The party still doesn't stop with all of the above! Taking up the Sunset Jazz stage at 8:30 p.m., after the Fireworks Exhibition, is Atlanta's renowned Shimmer Band. The Shimmers are considered one of America's most popular show bands and have been delighting and captivating audiences across the country and internationally for nearly a decade. The Shimmers play the very best dance and party music spanning the big band and jazz standards of the 1940's right thru 2006's top hits! The Shimmers do it all with energy and enthusiasm. The band's tight rhythm section is punctuated by the hottest horn section in the South and topped off with exceptional lead vocals and rich harmonies. All this is coupled with energetic dancing and colorful theme costumes making this a must see show.
FEDA reminds the community that all events are free, and everyone is invited to come celebrate with us on Saturday, Oct. 28, beginning at 5:30 p.m.!
For more info contact: Bridget Cox-Dawson @ 277-0692 or FEDA offices @ 773-FEDA
