Omari performing at the Gospel Vybez party.

Gospel Vibez, The first all-inclusive party of its kind could have been a historical event, except it lacked two main ingredients: an extraordinary line-up and patrons.

Promoted by Souls for Christ Ministry and Mahlon Hugh, an upcoming gospel artiste, the Gospel Vibez party, held last Saturday at the Girl Guides headquarters, Waterloo Road, was advertised as the first all-inclusive gospel show. With tickets $1,000 apiece, one expected a great show with at the very least drinks flowing all night.

THE STAR arrived at the venue minutes after 8 p.m., more than an hour after the scheduled start, expecting the show to be in full gear. The music and police officers standing guard seemed to be signs of an exciting, packed show, except the hall was virtually empty.

On stage, DJ Marshy Redz of Prayz House and Mega Jams 98 FM, along with Omar Trowers of Love FM were spinning the newest gospel tracks. The loud music should have moved the people, but there was only a small group of about 15 persons dancing in front of the stage.

Autograph

As the deejays spun, most persons were seated to the back of the hall having drinks, listening to the music or just chatting among themselves. A few had their flyers autographed by Mahlon Hugh.

At 9 p.m. the small crowd queued to collect their food. Again, they gathered at the back, around tables, and ate. By 9:30 p.m. the concert began with Omari opening the show.

Although he belted out hits like Help, Tell Mi A Who, and Why, the majority of the audience stayed put. Next up was the Christ-like Dancers. Their set began with a solo of the intro to Michael Jackson's Billie Jean, moves and all. It then developed into a performance of the popular dance moves, then moved into Prodigal Son's Shake Off The Devil.

Abigail Hamilton was next with a powerful voice. She was followed by the group Divine, Deejay Praise, Ariff and the man of the moment, Mahlon Hugh. It was only then that members from the dwindling audience moved closer to the stage, singing along to Free and The Message. Terrence Campbell did his popular Vote Out Satan and left the energetic SOS - Sons of the Shepherd - to close the show at 10:30 p.m.

Patrons cheering for their favourite acts on stage at the Gospel Vybez Party held at the Girl Guides HQ in Kingston, last Sunday. - Colin Hamilton photos