Republic Bank Exodus continued their winning ways at Sunday’s Panorama Semi-Finals.
The Large steelband from the East scored 277 points, performing their rendition of Voice’s ‘Too Own Way’.
In an interview after the band’s performance, Drillmaster of Republic Bank Exodus, Khan Cordice, said he is looking forward to dominating first place at the Finals on Carnival Saturday.
“We are looking forward to a great not just performance but production at the Finals because we want to win this year. The last time I think the band won would have been in 2004. If you know me, I don’t like to lose.”
But it’s a slim lead at the top of the scoreboard as reigning champions bp Renegades followed closely behind on 276 points with their rendition of Machel Montano’s ‘Bet Meh’ arranged by Duvonne Stewart.
Just half a point separates second and third place, as First Citizens Supernova Steel Orchestra scored 275.5 to take third place with the popular ‘Cocoa Tea’ sung by Kes.
There was a tie for fourth place between Heritage Petroleum Skiffle and Phase Two Pan Groove, while Nutrien Silver Stars, Massy All Stars, Shell Invaders, T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps, and RBC Redemption Sound Setters round up the top 10.
Meanwhile, in an electrifying showdown, reigning Medium Band champs, Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra, captivated the crowd and judges, soaring to first place in the highly competitive category.
Scoring 276 points, Katzenjammers performed their rendition of the Mighty Sparrow’s ‘Lying Excuses.’ Following closely behind was Pan Elders with a strong performance of Lord Nelson’s ‘Mih Lover’ that earned them 274 points.
Pan Arranger Ojay Richards said he always strives to stand out when composing his arrangements.
“My approach is you basically start off with the same criteria that you start off, but then, how do I make it different, how do I make it Ojay, in terms creativity, in terms of something different.”
They were followed by NGC Couva Joylanders with 271 points, Pamberi Steel Orchestra, Courts Sound Specialists, La Brea Nightingales, Dixieland Steel Orchestra, Arima Angel Harps, Sforzata Steel Orchestra, and Curepe Scherzando Steel Orchestra.
The Finals of the Medium Band category will take place this Sunday, February 23rd, at the Dwight Yorke Stadium.