Courtesy of: The Morning News
By: Rosalie Klein
The thousands who came to dance in the streets and move to the beat of El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico on the first night of the 7th Annual Carribbean Sea Jazz Festival were not deterred or disbursed by the sudden downpour at the end of their set, such was the overwhelming popularity of this classic group.
While El Gran Combo was “doing old school” (literally, the youngest member of this iconic group of Latin music idols rumored to be 67,) on the main Padu stage, Giovanca from Curacao was thrilling audiences in the air-conditioned comfort of the Renaissance Convention Center. Island Radio host Hilario Doncker said of Giovance “With her powerful, voice, she sang, and with her athletic body she moved in such a way that merit great applause…she interacted well with those who came to see her perform. She even took pictures with those who were present. Great performance from Giovanca!”
Not only did Aruba‘s local Latin-music loving population fill the stands, as promoters reported by Thursday, they were already sold out for tickets for Saturday night. Many wondered if the move to a new venue would be an improvement; those who have attended the festival every year since inception answer a resounding “yes!”
Regular attendees to the annual fest were impressed with the change of venue; the grounds of the Renaissance Marketplace proved far more spacious, and every inch was needed for the packed area of the main stage. Aside from the famous CSJF Food Court, offering very reasonably prices snacks and drinks, there were also many options among the restaurants and clubs of the marketplace to dine and relax while enjoying the music.
This was particularly appealing around the “Divi” stage, which is the mall’s normal bandstand. It offered perfect seating and dining at Plaza Cafe or Casa Tua for the energetic performances of Luci and the Soul Breakers from Panama.
This year, the CSJF prompted a record number of travelers come to Aruba specifically for the event. Dorothy and Cynthia from Los Angeles, jazz aficionados who travel the world to attend such festivals, were visiting the island for the first time. They became fast friends with time share owners Daisy and Felicia, from NYC, so it can be said the festival drew fans from coast to coast!
Saturday evening had cooled down a bit from Friday’s oppressive heat and humidity, on and off the stage. Headliner George Benson made the mood mellow with his smooth vocals and iconic guitar stylings, followed by Jose James. This year, the CSJF proved a great success, not only for its new venue, but also an appealing diversity of music, bringing back some of the distinctly Latin feel of its predecessor, which proved immensely popular.
