AUDIO: Ataklan + LAZABeam Go “Carnivalin”

Words and Photos by Rian Nurse

Some would say that Ataklan is one of Trinidad & Tobago’s best-kept secrets. He is a singer, songwriter and all-around diverse and innovative artist of the modern Rapso persuasion.

Following the success of his Carnival 2K15 hit “Renegade Soca” with Bunji Garlin, produced by Jus Now, the UK/Trinidad production duo that includes Sam “Interface” Chadburn and Keshav “LAZABeam” Singh (as well as making the rounds at the international festival circuit) Ataklan has been in the studio working on some incredible music for Carnival 2K16.

With “Carnivalin,” Ataklan and LAZABeam have teamed up once again to create what can only be described as a Rapso, Soca and EDM smash up that is quite different from the norm. Its rapsonic chanting, and melodious build-ups, capture the euphoria that is Trinidad Carnival. Supported by sweet steelpan undertones and a driving rhythm, this could easily be the theme song to thousands of feet chipping and jumping with the common goal of “Carnivalin” on Monday and Tuesday.

The duo has worked on other tracks such as “Robber Rave” (a lyrical onslaught which highlights the prowess of the Midnight Robber), which featured in Berlin Carnival. Ataklan is known for honoring the traditional but also pioneering the trajectory of the local music scene with his lyrical and distinct approach to his tracks, and this song is no exception:

Trinbagonian to meh heart, Soca is my work of art, May we never be apart, Season short- lewwe start!

Up next for Ataklan are projects with several internationally acclaimed producers from various genres of music that are sure not to disappoint. He has also released a traditional soca called “Wine Thief” for the Carnival 2K16 season which describes the mischievousness that happens when infectious music affects party goers. Stay tuned and keep your eyes peeled for future works from this artist.

Up and Up and Away!

Follow Ataklan on Instagram and Facebook @ataklan.