From Tie to Triumph? Golden Hands Powers Up with ‘All Aboard’ for Panorama 2026
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 11, 2025
This post first appeared on Sokah2Soca, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.
Once again, the sweet sound of steelband music is rising from panyards across Trinidad, and this is a reminder that Panorama 2026 is already in the works. Today, we have news about last year’s small band co-champions, the Golden Hands Steel Orchestra, news that you will appreciate. After tying for first place in Carnival 2025 with T&TEC East Side Dimension, the question on everyone’s mind is: Can they do it again? It was musical precision that led to their co-champion performance, emotional storytelling, and the power of youth-driven excellence. Small Bands Panorama will be a must-see, must-listen part of the Panorama competition for Carnival 2026.
Golden Hands returns to competition, to defend their title with "All Aboard" by Atlantic, featuring Tony Prescott This is an iconic anthem that has found new life as the Golden Hands' Panorama selection, arranged by Vanessa Headley. Here's a breakdown of the song, the arranger, and the competitive stakes.
The Song—"All Aboard"
We said that the tune is an iconic song and whenever you hear the name Tony Prescott, this song immediately comes to mind. Regardless of Tony's repertoire, he will always be known for this song. Released in 1997 with production by Junior "Ibo" Joseph, this song is played on every boat ride that is now a staple for Carnivals across North America and the Caribbean. Since this song is so well known, everyone hearing the steelband version will easily recognize it and be able to understand and appreciate the nuances of the musical arrangement. All Aboard is real Trinidadian party music and will have people dancing to the sweet sounds that Golden Hands will deliver. But wait, since Edwin Yearwood wrote the song you may be asking if he released a version of his own... the answer is yes, with Krosfyah but the first release was by Atlantik.
The Arranger: Vanessa Headley
She is not just the arranger for the Golden Hands Steel orchestra but also a presenter on WACK Visual Radio. She brings her signature blend of technical mastery and emotional storytelling to the panyard.
She recently arranged for the Metro Steel Orchestra in the 2025 New York Panorama (Brooklyn's Labor Day Carnival). Her arrangements are known for layered harmonies, unexpected modulations, and groove-rich phrasing—perfect for a song like “All Aboard.”
The Stakes
Golden Hands enters Panorama 2026 with momentum, confidence, and a song that feels tailor-made for the steelband orchestra. Their 2025 tie was historic—not just for the result, but for what it represented: the rise of a youth orchestra with professional standards and cultural depth. Vanessa was celebrated by all her fans, especially those who know her personally but also by her WACK Visual Radio 90.1 listeners, who enjoy listening to her breakdown musical arrangements every Sunday after De Dotish Hour.
Final Thoughts
All Aboard is not your typical high-tempo Soca song. It was released during a time when people viewed Soca music as sweet, characterized by a slower bpm. It will be fascinating to see how Vanessa maneuvers around these limitations to deliver the sweetness of the song while capturing the essence and vigor of a Panorama test piece. There is a risk of playing at a slower bpm, especially in the high-energy world of Panorama. If done correctly, "All Aboard" could become a Panorama standout—not based on hype and speed but one that resonates with pan fanatics.
We eagerly anticipate Tony Prescott, dressed in sailor white, waving his flag during the band's performance. Panorama isn’t just a competition—it’s a cultural ritual. It’s where arrangers become architects, players become storytellers, and songs become movements. With Tony Prescott, Vanessa Headley, and the full force of Golden Hands behind this year’s performance, “All Aboard” could be more than a tune—it could be a triumph.
So as the panyards heat up and the Savannah waits, one question echoes: Will Golden Hands ride this rhythm all the way to the top again? Bush Judges, real judges, music enthuasists, let the music play on!
Let us spread awareness of the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
We do this to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and stories of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy reaches a wider audience and fosters creativity and connections. While it is important to always purchase music, you should avoid sharing promotional music because doing so denies essential revenue to songwriters, producers, and artists. You can find all of our posts online on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Spotify, and SoundCloud. We recommend that you explore your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: All Aboard
Artist/Performed by: Atlantik feat. Tony Prescott
Lead Vocalist: Tony Prescott
Written by: Edwin Yearwood
Executive Producers: Cliff Harris, Junior "Ibo" Joseph & JW Productions
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
JW Productions 1997
Genre: Soca ?
? Listen. Share. Amplify. Our artists embody culture not only during Carnival but also on a daily basis. Sokah2Soca—Where Rhythm Lives and Calypso, Steelband Music, and Soca Thrive!
We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Sokah2Soca/Soca Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
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Caura River Lime: Trini Surfer Captures the Spirit of Trinidad
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 11, 2025
Dive deeper into Caribbean music and culture at Sokah2Soca—your go-to source for Soca, Calypso, and Carnival coverage. First published on Sokah2Soca, now streaming live via Island Vybe Radio.
No, this is not an error; we are reposting Trini Surfer's culinary post from YouTube. There is so much talk about uncertainty and war coming to the region, with Trinidad caught up in the middle of what's taking place. I wanted to let people know that life in Trinidad is about people and sharing moments that last a lifetime. Liming is our national pastime and Caura River Lime is something every Trini should experience.
This experience features Trini Surfer documenting the day's events while Dinesh and the rest of the crew cook all the delicious river-lime food. We will quote the video summary from the post to save time and allow you to go ahead and enjoy the video presentation:
"We cook authentic Trini pepper fried chicken outdoors by the Caura River in Trinidad and Tobago. The video follows the preparation process, from seasoning to frying, showcasing local culture. Enjoy the stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere as the culinary adventure unfolds."
Set aside some time to view the video in its entirety; it is about 48 minutes in length. This is a much-needed break and we hope you enjoyed watching it. As the video presentation came to an end, it began to rain, but as we say in Trinidad, "Rain does only stop Cricket!"
Let us spread awareness of the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
We do this to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and stories of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy reaches a wider audience and fosters creativity and connections. While it is important to always purchase music, you should avoid sharing promotional music because doing so denies essential revenue to songwriters, producers, and artists. You can find all of our posts online on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Spotify, and SoundCloud. We recommend that you explore your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Original YouTube Title: Caura River Lime + Pepper Chicken = Pure Trini Vibes
Presented by: Trini Surfer
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca ?
? Listen. Share. Amplify. Our artists embody culture not only during Carnival but also on a daily basis. Sokah2Soca—Where Rhythm Lives and Calypso, Steelband Music, and Soca Thrive!
We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Sokah2Soca/Soca Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please click the small triangle button in the music player below to listen now.
Sokah2Soca Approved: Anika Berry’s “Drift” Is Sweet Like Soca Syrup
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 11, 2025
This post first appeared on Sokah2Soca, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.
She's Soooo Sweeeetttt! ? Anika Berry is back with another Carnival 2026 release, and this one’s a vibe you won’t want to miss. “Drift,” featured on the Heavy Hitterz Riddim, is an exciting Soca track for 2026 that evokes a gentle pull into her embrace—indeed, she sincerely desires you to drift away with her! Boat ride or not, you will want to drift away with Anika
The magic of ace Trinidadian songwriter (now based in Barbados) Jason "Shaft" Bishop wrote this one; it is typical of his brilliant songwriting skills. He crafted lyrics that float like waves while using oceanic metaphors to bring the message home—captain, life jacket, drifting—to evoke comfort, surrender, and emotional guidance. It's a gentle yet rhythmic call to surrender and allow love to carry you. Fans will feel this one deep.
Anika is clearly on the right path—delivering quality music with heart and finesse. And yes, we’re calling it: Sokah2Soca approved!
Let us spread awareness of the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
We do this to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and stories of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy reaches a wider audience and fosters creativity and connections. While it is important to always purchase music, you should avoid sharing promotional music because doing so denies essential revenue to songwriters, producers, and artists. You can find all of our posts online on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Spotify, and SoundCloud. We recommend that you explore your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Drift
Artist/Performed by: Anika Berry
Produced By: Da Reel Deal Productions
Executive Producers: Dream Team Productions and Commercial Music Inc.
Written By: Jason "Shaft" Bishop
Music Composed By: Scott Galt
Backing Vocals By: Anika Berry
Vocal Editing By: VocalDini
Mixed and Mastered By: Anthony Lowhar at Commercial Music Inc.
Artwork By: @newmedia_tt
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca ?
? Listen. Share. Amplify. Our artists embody culture not only during Carnival but also on a daily basis. Sokah2Soca—Where Rhythm Lives and Calypso, Steelband Music, and Soca Thrive!
We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Sokah2Soca/Soca Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please click the small triangle button in the music player below to listen now.
From Hurt to Healing: Ravi B’s “Vindictive” Hits Home
By Ananda/Sokah2Soca
in
Blog
November 11, 2025
Dive deeper into Caribbean music and culture at Sokah2Soca—your go-to source for Soca, Calypso, and Carnival coverage. First published on Sokah2Soca, now streaming live via Island Vybe Radio.
Ravi B’s “Vindictive” hits different. It’s not just another rum song—it’s the blueprint. The music isn’t driven solely by the drum kit; it’s rich, layered, and full of color. And the lyrics? These lyrics make total sense, adding clarity to the entire song concept. I have always been critical of songs that have anything to do with rum.... this one hits different.
Ravi Bissambhar (Ravi B Projects) and Rishi Mahato (Maha Productions) produced this song, which was engineered by Maha Productions, and I am pleased to report that it isn't just a typical Soca riddim driven by the drum kit. The music has 'color,' and it actually makes me sit back and listen. Well done, gentlemen.
“Vindictive” speaks to anyone who’s been betrayed but chose growth over revenge. "Vindictive" serves as a poignant reminder that peace and success serve as the most potent forms of retribution. Ravi B bares his soul with raw emotion and lyrical honesty; he delivers a powerful song, a possible anthem, for moving on—and moving up.
Let us spread awareness of the culture of the Caribbean diaspora.
We do this to promote Caribbean culture, musicians, and music producers. We are able to honor and promote the rich sounds and stories of the Caribbean thanks to your support. Together, we can ensure that this rich cultural legacy reaches a wider audience and fosters creativity and connections. While it is important to always purchase music, you should avoid sharing promotional music because doing so denies essential revenue to songwriters, producers, and artists. You can find all of our posts online on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Spotify, and SoundCloud. We recommend that you explore your favorite content on FeedSpot/RSS Feed, Threads, Bluesky, and Twitter/X, including email subscriptions. Thank you in advance.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Vindictive
Artist/Performed by: Ravi B
Written/Composed by: Ravi Bissambhar
Produced by: Ravi Bissambhar (Ravi B Projects), Rishi Mahato (Maha Productions)
Project Executives: Ravi Bissambhar & Vaneeta Gobin
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Soca ?
? Listen. Share. Amplify. Our artists embody culture not only during Carnival but also on a daily basis. Sokah2Soca—Where Rhythm Lives and Calypso, Steelband Music, and Soca Thrive!
We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Sokah2Soca/Soca Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/.
♫Please click the small triangle button in the music player below to listen now.
