Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Of course, the leading musicians of the islands make recordings, including the
hypnotic and tantalizing vocals from Dezarie, which can be heard in the album
Gra-
cious Mama Africa.
This album, among others, has earned her the title of St. Croix's
Roots Empress. Another empress is Mada Nile, known for her poignant lyrics. Our
favorites of her selections are “Senseless Killing” and “Righteously.”
A vocal rival of both Dezarie and Mada Nile is Sistah Joyce, who is acclaimed for
her hard-hitting lyrics as evoked by her recording of “Remembah.” She scored a hit
with her debut album,
H.Y.P.O.C.R.I.C.Y.
Since the new millennium, island music has reached an international following for
the first time. Reggae bands, such as Midnite and Inner Visions have found renewed
popularity, although they've been around since the '80s.
Midnite Intense Pressure,
Midnite's debut album, firmly established them as a force in roots music; the group
is known for its fiery lyrics. Midnite's rival group is Inner Visions; their album
Spiri-
tual Dancer
demonstrates the group's refined musical abilities, which distinguish
them from the more “raw roots” style of other rival artists. The band is made up of
first- and second-generation members of the Pickering family, with names like Grass-
hopper and Jupiter. The voices of two generations blend harmoniously as they “Blow
Down Babylon.”
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EATING & DRINKING
Just as food critics were composing eulogies for traditional cooking in the Virgin
Islands, there was a last-minute resurgence. Many of the old island dishes have made
a comeback, and little taverns and shanties offering regional specialties are popping
up everywhere. You can now escape hamburger hell and taste some real Caribbean
flavors.
When dining in the Virgins, try
fresh fish,
especially mahimahi, wahoo, yellowtail,
grouper, and red snapper. These fish, accompanied by a hot lime sauce, are among
the tastiest island specialties. Watch out for the sweet Caribbean lobster: It's likely to
be overpriced and overcooked, and many diners, especially those from Maine, feel
that it's not worth the price.
The major resort hotels often feature elaborate
buffets,
which inevitably include
some West Indian dishes along with more standard Continental fare. They're almost
always reasonable in price, and you'll most likely enjoy the sounds of a West Indian
fungi band while you eat (fungi music is a melodious, usually improvised blend of
African and Spanish sounds). You don't have to be a hotel guest to indulge, but you
often need to make a reservation.
Tips on Dining
Dining in the Virgin Islands is generally more expensive than it is in North America
because, except for locally caught seafood, many of the ingredients have to be
imported. This also means that sometimes they aren't as fresh as they could be.
Whenever possible, stick to regional food, which is fresher.
Overall, the food on the islands is better than ever. Many fine talents, including
some top-notch chefs, now cook here. These chefs often combine mainland recipes
with local ingredients to come up with a Caribbean/American cuisine. Try to eat at
some of the local places as well. The prices there are more reasonable, and the fare
is more adventurous.
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