Calypso Tide

We have a lot of equipment that can set up in about 30 mins, take down maybe 15. In case you have other groups performing.

Our group focuses on introducing people to Steel Drum and a little bit of Trinidadian culture. We perform a few different styles of island music. Calypso, Soca, Reggae, Salsa, even a tiny bit of beach themed rock! We talk a little about the making of a steel drum. People are always very curious about them. Finally, we hold a limbo competition. Usually for the kids, but its a lot of fun seeing the adults give it a shot!

We love to have people dance to this catchy music, but usually people prefer to sit and watch. Many of our songs can be performed both slow and fast. As well as loud or soft. It all depends on the atmosphere you are looking for. We can be good ambiance or the main attraction!

Although our group Calypso Tide has only been around for a year now, it could technically be said that we got started in the late 80's! My father and his friends first learned about the steel drums in college and decided to form a band. They used the money they earned to help pay their way through school. I basically grew up with steel drums right in my home!

I learned how to play drums from my father and eventually went to college myself. There I studied under my dads friend who had become a music professor. While at school I met our lead pan player Egha who comes from Indonesia. He rocked at soloing and amazing with any kind of percussion.

After returning home, my brother and sister learned how to play the Steel Drums. We formed a family steel band group and performed often at retirement homes during Christmas time. Once they left for school we were short a few players again. So I called up Egha and he brought his friend who played seconds. I continued focusing on drumset while my Dad played the triple guitar. Most recently we called up our good friend David, who played bass in the good days to come join us again. He gladly accepted.

Steel Drums are Acoustic! This means we don't need to set up any speakers to be heard. However our bass guitar is the only player who will need access to an outlet. If your venue has access to sound equipment we will gladly use it, but it wont be required to hear us clearly.

Please provide some sort of shade for us if we are performing outside. This is to protect our instruments from the sun. When heat effects the drums it can damage the notes.

Our group has surprisingly been able to fit into some tight spots! But we would prefer to have a place reserved for us that is at least 20ft across, 10ft back. Thank you!