San Fernando Carnival band, Kalicharan Carnival recently held the launch for its 2014 presentation Beats.
Ayana Kalicharan, daughter of mas icon Ivan Kalicharan, explained the idea behind the new concept, saying it's all about how the beat of music makes us move and dance, but more than anything else, the feeling it creates.
"It's about the effect of dance, because of each beat, and how that makes people feel."
She explained that each of the eight sections represents different beats of different genres of music which include Arabian, Samba, Zulu, Chutney, Soca, Lakota, Jazz, and Electro Dance, each with a specific colour to represent that section.
Each costume portrays the attire associated with that particular type of music.
Costumes are made of rhinestones, shiffon, feathers, moulding and wire.
The overwhelming support for the band launch at Metro Nightclub is now reflected in registration for next year's Carnival parade, Ayana said.
"We have had a great response so far. San Fernando looks forward to this."
She also boasted that many masqueraders indicated they were leaving the Port-of-Spain parade of bands to return to the San Fernando scene.
"They are impressed with the quality of our costumes as well as the price."
Two of the sections offer the all-inclusive experience–Lakota and Soca–costing $2,600 for the female costume and $2,300 for the male costume.
Overall, prices range from $1,350 to $1,600 for regular sections.
Kalicharan Carnival has won the Band of the Year title in San Fernando 20 times, with a seven-year streak since 2007.
Earlier this year, the band won with their presentation of the Rise of the Olympians, which showcased Greek mythology.
When asked about the band's expectation to take yet another first place title in 2014 with Beats, Ayana said they felt confident.
"We are always confident but not complacent. We put out our best effort in production of the costumes and ensuring our band is a fun band. That combination is imperative for our success."
She said proudly that the band was growing with each day, and each year.
When asked what sets the Kalicharan Carnival experience apart from other bands, she said it's all about that family feeling.
"All our masqueraders feel like part of the Kalicharan Carnival family. We make everyone feel at home. Everyone is one," she said.