One of the most virtuosic of small groups in the field of steel band, Jit Samaroo and family run a tour de force over both calypsos and various adapted pop hits on
Quintessence. All members of the band, except the bass pan player, are family, and prior to 1991, the bass player was family as well (sister Vidya, featured in "Pan Rising"). Jit Samaroo has gone on to be one of the big five steel band composers, and the arrangements on
Quintessence prove the validity of his inclusion among the elite. For fans of crossover style calypso, this album would be a perfect addition, with its overly varied repertoire covered. For newcomers, too, its crossover appeal might not be a bad introduction. ~ Adam Greenberg