Caribbean Heat has thus far showcased the talents of various solo acts so let’s use this opportunity to highlight the incredible material put forward by one of the West Indies’ most promising collectives. Kes the Band is a group of performers from Trinidad & Tobago who have been heralded as the representatives of the new generation of Soca artists.

Headed by Kees, Kes the Band gained recognition on a global scale because of the heavy Pop music influence on their material that attracted a following across the US and Europe. Additionally, the group regularly branched out into the fields of Reggae to help introduce a new brand of Reggae Fusion.

Watch some of Kes the Band’s videos below and get familiar with their material:

‘Wotless’

‘Stress Away’

‘Loving You (Kees & Tessanne
Chin)’

‘Ah Ting’

‘Thunder’

It is usually difficult for foreigners, particularly persons in the US, to appreciate Soca music because of the generally localised sound of the material and accents of the artists. However, although Kes the Band maintain Trinidadian twang in their music, they have cleverly expanded their audience by crafting material by considering broader market.

Ironically, while Kes the Band was readily accepted by persons outside of the Caribbean, they struggled to make an impact within the region because of that Pop sound. Now, on the other hand, as globalisation continues to affect the tastes of locals, it is clear that Kes the Band will have long term success by that of their peers.

If you enjoyed Kes the Band’s music then you could find more on iTunes! Which was your favourite song? Let us know in the comment section below!

Thoughts?