Boots on the Ground

Talk about 'boots on the ground' ... and we were not soldiers in Iraq. Arriving at Sumfest on Friday, July 23, was like stepping into a giant-sized pigsty. Or, if you prefer, some unending health spa from an upscale resort Middle Eastern spa where you could indulge in mud masks and wraps, from here to eternity! The roadway to the parking lot was transformed into a muddy mess. As you parked the car, you had to seriously contemplate where to place your feet.

'Big-up' to the Japanese makers of Subaru hatchbacks; the little baby handled the mud like a fish in water. Just a slow and steady rev in first gear, and easy it went. No getting stuck in the sticky stuff like some of the bigger models.

But, Jamaican women were not daunted and, like true fashionistas, made the most of the moment with protective footwear from black scandal bags to water boots otherwise used by the farmers of the land. For the first time in this hot, humid country, boots became relevant. But there were also those who simply abandoned their flimsy flip-flops and went back to basics - bare feet!

Not surprising, then, that most of the hardware stores in Montego Bay were sold out of water boots by Saturday afternoon! Even the markets cashed in on the unexpected windfall created by urgency of the need for more suitable footwear. The shelves in MegaMart that were previously filled, were soon empty, as patrons sought to fight back the muddy mess that at times invaded their pants, shirts, legs and cars. It was a muddy Reggae Sumfest, but the best Saturday night performances since Lionel Richie appeared at the event years ago.

It was brand loyalty and dedication that caused persons to leave the comfort of their homes to attend the festival, and they were not disappointed.

No surprise

From the sensuous antics of Usher, Shaggy (glued to his enamel mug), Beenie and D'Angel proclaiming their love for each other, Tarrus Riley satisfying every need in his female fans, to Christopher Martin showing his prowess, Reggae Sumfest 2010 was the bomb!

Bounty Killer is now a 'preacher' and finally, Vybz Kartel found a kind policeman who appeared with him on stage and 'released' him from jail.

Dancehall did not surprise many. It remains the night that pulled in the largest number of patrons.

barbara.ellington@gleanerjm.com & janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com