by JOHN SEALY

IT WAS party time for the Stray Cats at Casa Grande, Oldbury, St Philip, on Thursday night. And some of the uptempo numbers have something going for them.

Unfortunately the judges were not dealing with possibilities but with what was presented on the night, and it would be up to the artistes to look at where they fell down.

African could have a chance in the Party Monarch at Farley Hill. His catchy number Road Call heralded "Crop-Over as sweet fuh days, so everyone just gather 'round, Crop-Over festival is the world greatest Carnival."

It was enhanced by a well-choreographed display by two dancers. But still there was a lack of melodic synchronisation between band and singer.

Hammer's Town Is Where I Come From is an intelligent blend of rhythm and lyrics about the icons and landmarks of Bridgetown and it caught this writer's ear. Unfortunately Hammer seemed to have been losing "the key to the city" as he wobbled in and out of tune inspite of looking very confident.

Sobie's Aphrodisiac was witty and was carried by a nice melody. But it does not leave an impact; maybe because of the singer's laid back approach to delivery.

Jason Weekes known as Rude Boy was another glimmer of hope for the future of party music with Party Time. He also has stage presence.

Others appearing before the judges inlcuded Private with I going Down De Road, Annie ann doing Gangsta Wuk-up, Caesar Never Leave You, Mighty Concrete with Get Out De Way, Dockie Roberts with a Tribute To Tuk and Ghadaffi Gorilla with Mash Up De Place.

Zulu, the emcee, was witty again with lots of jokes. But there is no need to try to tell all in one night.