Digicel Pantime Steel Orchestra performed a beautiful warm-up piece that got the crowd into the mood.  They then exploded with Pan Baby, their tune of choice while dressed in red and black, the signature colors of Digicel, their ‘sponsor.’  The arrangement was well thought out and balanced.  Their performance reiterated the fact that Pantime is a class act at the top of its game.  Their ability embraced many of the native rhythms of the Afro-Caribbean experience in a manner that was phenomenal.  In addition, their musical theme was repeated throughout the performance allowing the audience to stay connected melodically with the piece as they moved through their musical variations.  The band was very tight and the arranger allowed the music room to breathe even when there was much activity occurring, by separating the ranges well and varying the styling of the percussion section.  This is no doubt one of the best performances so far for the 2008 panorama season in any country.  With seventy-three players, the orchestra again placed second this year, the last time being in 2006 when Pantime came even closer to seizing the Panorama title - losing by a mere one half of a point. 

Rest in Peace Leo Hippolyte