Caption: Orange Sky
By Azlan Mohammed
THE quiet hills of Upper Santa Cruz will erupt with the sound of guitars, drums and raw energy as Voices of Rock presents BuckFest T&T, featuring 14 local bands in a thunderous tribute to the legends of rock on September 23.
The event is the brainchild of rock promoter Joey Sabeeney, who has decades of experience bringing world-class acts to local stages, including Blue Öyster Cult, Kansas, Dolores O’Riordan, and the Scorpions.
“The pandemic took a heavy toll on the music scene. It’s time to bring back the big production shows—no more one-band, one-venue nights. We’re restarting the rock ’n’ roll train with BuckFest T&T,” Seebaney told AZP News earlier this week.
Taking place at Drew Manor, Upper Santa Cruz, the festival promises a mix of veteran performers and rising talent.
Headlining the night is Trinidad and Tobago’s internationally recognised recording and touring band, Orange Sky, fronted by veteran rocker Nigel Rojas. Under Sabeeney’s guidance, Orange Sky has shared stages with major acts including Scorpions, King’s X, Collective Soul, Yngwie Malmsteen, Buckcherry, White Lion, Night Ranger, and Lifehouse.
The lineup also features a powerful roster of local rock outfits: Supernormal, Code Black, Sidekick Envy, The Narrows, Koat of Arms, Bcuz of Us, Gras Project, Burn, Circle Square, Tempest, Death in Paradise, Skulkyd, and Upset the Order.
Billed as the first large-scale rock concert since “Rock, Stock and Barrel” more than 30 years ago, BuckFest T&T is also designed as a “cooler event,” encouraging patrons to bring their own drinks and chairs. Food vendors will be on site, but no bar service will be available.
Sabeeney promises a top-tier production, featuring a massive stage and rock-fueled theatrics.
Keeping the energy high throughout the night will be master rock DJ “Less than Zero,” Ricardo “Dumplin” Bailey, spinning classic anthems from the golden era of rock—think Van Halen, Rush, Kansas, Triumph, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden, among others. “Coincidentally, the show takes place on the anniversary of the Scorpions’ 2008 concert,” Seebaney noted.
Gates open at 4.30 pm, Nigel Rojas will perform the national anthem at 6.20 pm in tribute to the late Joey Ng Wai, the respected guitarist and musician, followed by the first band taking the stage at 6.25 pm.
Tickets are on sale at The Naughty Grape (Mucurapo Road), Toppers Restaurant & Bar (Grand Bazaar), and Planners Sports Bar (Cipero Street, San Fernando).
