Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine July 2018 | Page 56

Spirited Band
C
Antigua’s Premier Party Band
ricket-lovers around the world
would most certainly remember
the name Curtly Ambrose who
was rated the best fast bowler
in the world when he was a member of the
West Indies Cricket Team. Richie Richardson
is also a name that will be familiar to those
who followed cricket. He was once the No 1
batsman in the world and the former captain
of the West Indies Cricket Team between 1991
and 1995. They both entertained spectators
with flair during their cricketing years.
Although they have since retired from the
sport, they still entertain, this time, with music.
Sir Curtly Ambrose and Sir Richie Richardson
are now members of The Spirited Band, a
musical group that was born in early 2009
on the island of Antigua. This is possibly the
only band in the world with two knighted
cricketing legends being part of the line up!
They are often away a lot with their individual
cricketing commitments, but musicians, Craig
Daly on bass and Guy Reynolds on guitar,
ensures the band continues in their absence.
Tamah Boston
Jason Jacobs
These are the “Spirited” members who rock the
Antiguan music scene:
Tamah Boston, vocals
Music has been Tamah’s only job for the past 7
years. She loves rock and reggae but reggae is
her preferred genre. Her sister, who performs
with another band has been and continues to
be the major musical influence in her life.
Nadia Kellman, vocals
A musical aficionado from childhood, she
enjoyed performing in church since the
tender age of 11. Now, her enjoyment comes
from working with the “Spirited” group of
experienced and talented musicians who richly
compliment her vocals. Performing with the
band at various well known venues is truly a
source of enjoyment. She loves performing
soulful songs and songs of inspiration with
some of her influences being Erika Badu, Bob
Marley, Patti Labelle, Le’Andria Johnson, Lady
Saw and Baron.
Dave Bridgewater, keyboard & musical director
Dave has been involved with music from a very
young age at school and church. He has played
with a variety of bands in Antigua and also
Sir Curtly Ambrose
Sir Richie Richardson
Nadia Kellman
produced many tracks for Carnival. He would
love to hang out with John Legend because
of his versatility, ability to play the piano,
wonderful voice and seems to appeal to almost
everyone.
Sir Curtly Ambrose, bass
With his musical influences being the original
Burning Flames, Peter Tosh and the Mighty
Sparrow, Sir Curtly prefers to rock the stage with
Calypso and Reggae.
Sir Richie Richardson, rhythm guitar
He loves the camaraderie of the band and the
vibe they emanate when performing.
Reggae, Calypso/Soca are Sir Richie’s favourite
types of music to listen to but he prefers to play
music from the 70s & 80s when performing with
the band. His musical influence is Bob Marley.
Jason Jacobs, drums
Jason’s love for music began at school and he
played Leading Pan from the age of 12. He
then went on to play drums with various bands
before joining Dread and the Baldhead. His
musical influences are Burning Flames, Steel
Pulse, Kool & The Gang and Earth Wind & Fire.
Hits from the 80s are his preference on stage.