The appearance on stage of “Bankie Banx, and The Roots & Herbs” on Saturday night, March 18, at the Dune Preserve, was not only a main feature of Moonsplash 2006. It was in fact a celebration of thirty years since he was catapulted to the forefront of musical entertainment in the Caribbean and set on a course of international fame.

Bankie Banx and members of the Roots and Herbs performing at the Dune Preserve

Noted Caribbean journalist and broadcaster, Don Bobb, captured the scene as he introduced the group to a milling crowd which hardly left standing room on the spacious grounds of the stage. One estimate put the attendance at between two and three thousand.

“Bankie Banx and The Roots & Herbs revolutionised Caribbean music…,” Mr. Bobb said. “Between 1977 and 1984, the group recorded and sold throughout the Caribbean and left an indelible mark on the culture and consciousness of the region.
“Roots and Herbs emerged at a time of social awareness in the region when many of the islands found themselves officially free from the colonial hierarchy of the British Empire, yet struggling to find their identity…

Bankie Banx and members of the Roots and Herbs performing at the Dune Preserve

“Bankie Bank, the Roots & Herbs provided reggae music that was truly innovative. The band’s music introduced some elements of jazz, RMB and other influences of each of the band’s members. The lyrics also reflected the depth that had to be reached in reggae music… Bankie Banx, the Roots & Herbs have passed the test of time.

“I want you to take a look, ladies and gentlemen, at these icons now appearing on stage and reflect on the work that they have done 30 years ago; and use your creative imagination on when they took the region by storm.”

Section of the massive crowd at Moonsplash

In addition to Bankie Banx, the musicians and singers present were Ras B, Iwandai Gumbs, chairman; Keith Briooks, Leslie Brooks, Tony hodge, Leonard Richardson and Pricilla Gumbs. An absent original member of the group was Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch, who was off island.

Their appearance was part of the main “Legends Nite” performance which featured the tremendously popular Buju Banton show.

Section of the massive crowd at Moonsplash

The 16th Annual Moonsplash musical festival was held from March 16-19. The other events were a cocktail party and jazz hosted at Cap Juluca and featured pianist Omaje Allan Gumbs; a “reggae nite’ which featured Anthony B. Alana Davis, Cat Core, Bengy Myaz and the All Star Band; a cultural and arts fair encompassing the yard area of Cable & Wireless and a section of the public road, blocked from traffic; and a beach party which featured local music, food, traditional boat races, beach volleyball and the annual Moonsplash fashion show.

The Moonsplash festival, which has had the support of a number of sponsors, is listed among various special annual events in Anguilla with a tremendous attraction for tourists.

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