One of Jamaica’s most accomplished visual artist, Andy Ballentine, is now doing the official artwork for Lt. Stitchie’s soon to be released album. For those not familiar with Andy Ballentine, his trademark work – the careful representation of Jamaican fruits, vegetables and landscapes – as well as other portraits, can be found island wide in various resorts. His eye catching art hangs beautifully in tourist traps like Couples (Ocho Rios), which contracted him to produce 30 pieces for their resort in 2002, Swept Away (Negril), and internationally, in places like the office of the Ambassador of Iceland.

The two men met recently at an airport in Miami, Florida. Andy, a die-hearted fan of Lt. Stitchie, introduced himself once he spotted the governor. Stitchie, for his part, was equally impressed once he learned about Andy’s work and achievements. There was an instant connection which eventually led to Andy Ballentine working on the visuals for Lt. Stitchie’s album.

Lt. Stitchie and his team will not be showing the artwork to the public until the album is ready.

The 3^rd annual Aarhus Reggae Festival takes place on Friday, September 29^th and Saturday, September 30^th at Voxhall, located at Vester Allé 15, 8000 Aarhus C in Denmark. It is being presented and hosted by Jam Link International Association, Aarhus’ leading Caribbean event organizer.

On Friday, September 29^th, the Aarhus Reggae Festival will give patrons a lesson in the history of Dancehall, as the night will be centered on the foundation of the genre. The intent is to recreate the energy, vibe and feeling of the authentic Jamaican dancehall experience from the early seventies. To help facilitate this vision, Jam Link International has confirmed: Mwakenya, Hiya Flames, Lappa Luma, Papa Dee and Norris Man. Supporting all the aforementioned artists will be selectors: Tiger Moth, DJ Mads and Riddim Fex. Each DJ was invited because of his specific knowledge about, and connection to, dancehall music, history and culture.

On the following night, Saturday, September 30^th, the organizers will change gears and focus entirely on original roots reggae music. Unlike on Friday, where all the artists will be supported by a selector, on Saturday it will be 100% live music. The backing band for the evening will be the highly energetic ‘Splif Click Crew’ from out of Denmark. Confirmed artists for reggae night includes: Omar Perry, Teacha Dee, Donna Marie, Lirical D Mirical and Jessica.

Prior to doors opening at 20:00 on both nights, there will be “reggae, dub and acoustics under the tent” on the lawns, by the river outside Voxhall. There will be finger foods (Caribbean patties and Reggae Grill), info on Caribbean vacations and advance tickets available to the public. On Friday the reggae wagon will be rotating some of the best reggae mixes, while on Saturday Papa Bongo will be spinning dubs and Jamee will do an acoustic performance. The tent will be up at 16:00 on both days.

Admission for dancehall night, Friday, September 29^th is only 85 DKR. On reggae night, Saturday, September 30^th, the cost to get in will be 150 DKR; while entrance for both nights is 175 DKR. That being said, persons who wish to secure their place may do so now by purchasing tickets online via the following link: http://fondenvoxhall.dk/koncerter/aarhus-reggae-festival-2017

THE AFTER PARTY

On Friday and Saturday nights, immediately following the performances at Voxhall, Jam Link Intl. will ask all patrons to head over to Casa V58, located at Vestergade 58P, 8000 Aarhus C, for the official After Party. Entertainment at the After Party will include special performances by: Mwakenya, Hadji, JJ Paula and Vibz Star. Additionally, there will be DJ sets by the dancehall King, Riddim Fex and the only female dancehall selector in Aarhus, Ida-I.

Entrance for the After Party is absolutely free for everyone with an armband from Voxhall. Persons without an armband will be asked to pay only 30Kr.