Prepare to be swept away by Brett Ratner’s “Caribbean Street Fest,” a vibrant fusion of Caribbean beats, jazzy harmonies, and electronic vibes. Ratner craftfully takes listeners into a vibrant world where steel drums converse with saxophones and synths hum like distant traffic.
Originally written for a multimedia presentation on Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, the early settler recognized for founding Chicago, “Caribbean Street Fest” showcases a classic rock guitarist’s take on Calypso, Afro-Caribbean, and World music. Featuring Monica da Silva on vocals, the upbeat tune evokes the festive atmospheres of the street festivals that make Chicago one of the best places to spend the summer.
The accompanying artful video follows a fixed-gear cyclist navigating city streets en route to the festival. Upon arrival, he explores the sights and sounds before pedaling away, capturing the spirit of urban exploration and celebration.
As the melody unfolds, it captures the essence of narrow alleyways, lively midnight parties, and the chaotic harmony of rush-hour traffic. The tempo increases, evolving into a lively carnival procession that invites everyone to dance.
Known for composing themes for TV shows and commercials, Ratner has an innate ability to capture listeners’ attention instantly. “Caribbean Street Fest” marks his first solo endeavor after decades of working as a musician for hire and being a member of numerous bands. It is the first glimpse of his forthcoming debut EP, CityScapes, due for release on June 21.
