Entertainment

Voice Mail - BIO 2

Voice Mail in performance at Emancipation Jam held at Jamalco Sports Club on Monday. - nathaniel stewart

Fans can look out for features and giveaways as well as a special competition later on in the month. There will be a call-in session during which fans can call in to The Star and talk to members Craig, Oniel and Kevin for 1 hour. Can't Call? Then you will also get to chat on-line with the members on a date to be announced shortly. Plus, you can get even closer to Voice Mail at a special autograph signing session at Aquarius Records, Half Way Tree. And to get still closer, two lucky female fans will win a date with Oniel and Kevin. And don't forget the big splash to come!

Today, THE STAR brings you the second part of Voice Mail's bio. Part one was carried in The Star yesterday. The group is this month's featured artiste.

Like any group, the three have their distinctly different dynamics. Craig is the "mushy one", who is always cuddling, loveable and laid back. However at the same time, he's the one that they all agree is most miserable and meticulous when it comes to recording. Anything less than perfection is simply not an option.

Kevin Blaire, a former model is surprisingly the quietest and most unassuming member of the group. He describes himself without airs, "for the most part, I'm just a happy-go-lucky person - always bouncy and ready for anything".

Once you get to Oniel, the baritone voice of the group, it's clear he is the leader, the organiser and the unspoken boss. Always an entrepreneur, Oniel had his own business importing and selling goods prior to joining the group. According to Kevin, "He's the man that while we sleep, he's there pon the 'phone calling this person and that person, setting us up to record and all those things. He's the man in charge."

Distinctive period

Teaming up with Danny Champagne of Champagne Records in Jamaica signalled the start of a distinctive period of growth in recordings and relationships for the group. This independent producer actually puts forth more energy in promoting his recordings as demonstrated by the co-ordination of a video for Voice Mail with Delly Ranks, also featuring dancer Bogle, for their collaboration Weh Di Time. This video helped provide Voice Mail and Champagne with extra promotions since it was aired on all of Jamaica's local video channels and in New York where several programs are re-broadcast. Later, She Want It another collaboration with Delly Ranks was recorded by esteemed Dancehall producer Tony "CD" Kelly, known for his timeless riddim tracks for the Grindin riddim, Tony allowed them another hit locally and more penetration internationally.

Filled with talent, their determination and dedication has allowed them to move forth and record with some of Jamaica's elite producers. They linked up with Christopher Birch at Big Yard Studios in Jamaica for the title track Salsa on the Salsa riddim. Also at Big Yard Studios they laid down their singles Exit Sign on the Thriller riddim. Their special chemistry impressed Robert Livingston and they are featured on his 'The Return' 'riddim' creating a crossover friendly track Jamaican Jiggas.

They are also featured on the vivacious Dancehall Rock riddim from Skatta with the song Higher.

The group does not look for controversy. They are focused on quality recordings, not mixing up the pot or going for the shock factor just for the sake of publicity.