Read: 4 August, 2007

The book begins with a discussion of carnival and its place within Trinidad’s society. From there, it discusses the various settings for carnival music (including “on the road” (or during the masquerade march) and in the tent) and some of the more popular artists. Calypso is discussed a great deal, as is the multiplicity of Trinidad’s cultural heritage (including those of European, African, and Indian ancestry). Several musical styles are described. The book includes a CD with samples from various artists and styles discussed, as well as activities that include listening to certain songs on the CD while paying attention to certain elements.

Certainly not an exhaustive exploration, this book is best for where it was intended – in the non-Trinidadian classroom to give students their first exposure to a foreign culture and musical style. It is a great book for musicians looking to expand their stylistic influences and for students of culture looking for a starting point in their research. The inclusion of a CD adds much to the experience of reading the book and helps to bring the text to life.

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