Noel Thompson, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Montego Bay was kicking with New Year's Eve celebrations on Wednesday night and the vibe was really pounding at the Pier One Restaurant and Bar.

Perched on the waterfront, the venue is ideal for partygoers and the young at heart, who simply yearn fun and entertainment but prefer not to travel out of town.

Showcased as the Retro Twist New Year's Eve Party, the event was organised by the Russell family, owners and operators of Pier One restaurant. The theme was aimed at reflecting moods, dressing and music of the 1970s, '80s and '90s era.

Jamaican dancing styles

Most of the patrons did not stick to the dress code. However, the organisers, Robin, Jason, Anna-Kaye and Shari Russell and their friends, Dwight Crawford and Bryan Ho-Sue, looked really dapper in their outfits and when they grouped at intervals it was a throwback scene of the 1970s.

Before midnight, it was mainly foreigners who had converged at the venue, as they tried to hone their Jamaican dancing skills. And, just before midnight, complimentary champagne was served. There was a countdown and all in attendance watched a spectacular fireworks display at the Sunset Resort and Spa nearby.

It was party time, as patrons danced throughout the night. Jason, who was the disc jockey for the night, selected the right songs and kept up the momentum as it seemed there was never a dull moment for anyone.

They enjoyed the reggae, soca and rock 'n' roll beats. When Jason spun the 1970s funky rhythms, there was hardly anyone who could contain themselves. The vibes continued way into early New Year's morning.

'Gentlemanly' affair

At the Rose Hall Resort and Spa, it was a different kind of crowd - a more 'gentlemanly' affair in an exclusive party setting, attracting foreigners and locals. The popular Fab 5 Band, with lead vocalist Gem Myers, provided entertainment for the night.

As the countdown commenced to welcome the New Year, a barrage of golden balloons and confetti fell from the ceiling of the ballroom. Fab 5 struck the musical cord in synchrony and the song Happy New Year was rendered.

Songbird Myers took the audience on a nostalgic journey, interspersed with soca and reggae. She earned the audience's respect. It was a night well spent.