Determined to take the Band of the Year title for the 23rd time, last Friday, LIME Commancheros launched their masterpiece, ‘In Flight’ to be portrayed on the streets of St George’s the second Monday and Tuesday in August, for the 2014 carnival celebrations.
The band was formed 29 years ago and during that time, Commancheros has won the Band of the Year title on 22 occasions. Costumes from 3 of the 5 adults sections, and 3 sections from the children’s band, were displayed.
Lennard Gittens, a foundation member of Commancheros said, “In Flight tells a story of things with wings and will feature butterflies, fairies and Thor for the children. The adult band will feature angels, birds, bats and two other sections. The two sections that were not presented at the launch, will be presented in time.”
Commancheros is one of the larger bands to participate with an accompanying steelband providing the music. Alister Bain, Chairman of the Spicemas Corporation acknowledged that what Commancheros does for carnival in Grenada needs to be applauded. “It is a true reflection of positive community spirit. You are not just doing presentations but involving the community through your steelband and your carnival band,” he said.
Commancheros was described by Culture Minister Brenda Hood as uplifting the community spirit by contributing to carnival product. “The communities where you are located are very proud of your achievement. They all come together to showcase the beautiful and artistic costumes that are seen on the streets for carnival. Through carnival you are able to bring the community together,” she said.
By Linda Straker
