Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine April 2016 | Page 88

Andy “Laykay” Purcell
Hermitage Shortknee
Band Leader and Calypsonian

Let us introduce Andy “Laykay” Purcell, a resident
of Hermitage and the leader of the Hermitage
Shortknee Band. Scared but also intrigued as a
child, he watched his older brother “play” Shortknee
and was determined to overcome his fear one day,
and get involved. This he did in 1985 at the age of
15 and a short while later in 1988, he became the
Band’s leader. His is one of many Shortknee bands
on the Island, but as Andy and the other members
will be quick to tell you, theirs is the best. In 2008,
2009, 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2014 they captured 1st
place in the Shortknee Band Category during the
Carnival competition. Alas, in 2015 they placed
2nd, losing to the St. Johns, St. Andrew’s Band
(they also took 2nd place in 2011). But they are
not deterred, Determined to re-capture the title in
2016, Andy will again rally his troops and begin the
process for this year’s competition. Members come
from Hermitage, the neighbouring villages, other
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Caribbean Islands like Trinidad and as far away as
the USA and Canada. Due to their popularity, no
recruitment drive is needed as people gravitate to
the band all on their own. Enquiries pour in from all
over as this colourful, cultural expression expands
throughout the Island. Andy explained that many
young people are now getting involved, with over 40
active participants, some as young as 2 years old. It is
also not only reserved for men as there are now over
16 ladies in the band. Maximum band size is 150 and
sadly, some are turned away because they’ve reached
their maximum capacity.
While additional costumes are being sewn for new
members, songs are written for the competition. The
lyrics of these songs contain pieces of local village
gossip. It is said that one should live pristine lives all
year round, being careful of watchful eyes and sharp
ears.