Unheard Voices

Author A. Myrna Nurse artfully describes the origin and innovators of steelband, the controversies surrounding the music and its leaders, and the violence that shaped the movement. Nurse's portraits of the Caribbean artists describe both their perpetual struggle against poverty and violence, and their innate will to create. Her discussion of the American musicians is a compelling presentation of the grit and determination involved in furthering "the pebbles of the pan."

"Unheard Voices" relates the experiences of two of the movement's fathers: Elliott "Ellie" Mannette and Neville Jules. Nurse also considers the women who have broken into this art form, as well as Calypso-the music of the steelband-itself. "Unheard Voices" is a welcome addition to the small but growing body of literature on the musical inventions of the African Diaspora.