Sak Pase- XPhantoms

Standing over the tombstones of all of the deceased pioneers of our beloved konpa music was on the cover of Phantoms’ first album (Ove Barye); proclaiming 1991 as the year of Phantoms’ birth; vowing to continue the legacy of the creator of Konpa music. After over 15 years in the world music arena, on Saturday May 19th 2007, Phantoms changed its name to " Sa'k Pase " It is now known as the band formerly known as Phantoms.Many will read this change as an apologia for the excesses of the Phantoms era, an indictment of its self-absorption, the name’s change suggests that whatever comes next will represent a change in attitude. “This will give us the opportunity and the assurance of continuing our existence and thus having a renewed chance of attaining a new height”. Explains Jensen Desrosiers, Phantoms’ founder and drummer.So it's tempting to look to the up-coming album as the true start of a new era for Phantoms. If the new title of the up-coming album "Reincarnation” serves as a preview of the attitude change that accompanies the name change, then this new album might be its first reel. Obviously this new testimonial can be referred to as Phantoms’ metamorphosis into the un-known world, but rather it is more of a renewed life than death.Throughout its career, Phantoms has been cast as a musical prodigy, love, hate, political, controversial, quasi-mysterious, and out-of-touch alien. But while the misconception to its public image may have led many to write them off as old news, "Reincarnation" will be a breakthrough. It will reveal a guise of a band that has been all but forgotten but at the same time manifest itself as a reawakening of a new dawn.With almost two decades in the business, Phantoms’ obligatory instincts and larger sense of responsibility are kicking in like never before. There's always a rainbow at the end of every rain; there is always light at the end of every tunnel. They are starting to look back while pushing forward. Now more than ever before, Phantoms seems committed to continuing making meaningful work and leading the musical market.Phantoms is no stranger to the raising of eyebrows. But this is different; it's a universal truth that is finally coming out. Phantoms has apparently changed its name so it can start a new relationship with its fans, and in the process it will be going up against its former self.“To our beloved fans who may have a personal connection to the name Phantoms, don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened,” whispered King Kino. A great philosopher once said: “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending”.What is Phantoms/Sak Pase?In undertaking the task of proving that "Creole Music" is as global as any other music, Phantoms/Sak Pase have become Haiti's "New Generation Konpa" musical icon. Founded in 1990, Phantoms have, through the years, only given their constant best at all time, and, without a doubt, carried their entire generation along with them for the ride. Their music can be described as a well-balanced mix of high-energy cuts from traditional Konpa by adding Pop/Rock guitar, drum 'n' bass rhythmic tunes and provocative lyric concoctions. Thus, they pioneered Konpa/Rock in their own unusual musical style while soulfully meshing English, French and Creole words.

King Kino, Phantoms/Sak Pase's lead vocalist and front man, is a true legend in his own right with an undulating vocal cord, commanding tone, impressionable verbiage and a captivating air. His undeniable distinctive voice has been replicated among the younger generation Konpa vocalists, yet he remains unequaled.

King Kino and Phantoms/Sak Pase, on their first album, "Ouvè Bariè Ya", experimented with a new form of sounds that not only was unique, but also spanned to various genres, from rock to soul. This debut album was a hit overnight with "Pression Lanmou" and "14 Fevrier". It won them the 1992 "Best New Group" at the Caribbean Music Awards held at the Apollo Theater.

In 1995, the double album, "Rezireksyon/Resurrection," was a first in the Haitian music market. With twenty-three songs filled with inspirational messages and lyrics, it cemented the band's reputation as advocates of democracy. This album definitely made their legacy where more urban styles like Reggae, Rap, Gospel and even a hint of Opera were introduced. This compilation was a clear indication of their outstanding versatility. The New York time stated that the song "Rekonsilyasyon" was "An informal anthem for their country" (Haiti). Not afraid to be controversial or stand out for human right is one of this band's mottos. Most of their songs have enough verbal ammunition to ignite the mind while infiltrating the body with hyper kinetic beat, leaving their audience breathless.

During the "Rekonsilyasyon" promotional tour in Haiti, the band performed for an audience of over 60,000. In addition, to constant touring to various country like France, Belgium, Holland, Switzerland, Senegal, Japan, Martinique and Guadeloupe, they also appeared on the same stage with the likes of Little Kim, Luther Vandross and Jermaine Jackson. They made their mark for their unparalleled live performances in such places as Madison Square Garden, The Roseland Ballroom, The Apollo Theater, Essence Magazine Music Festival and Summer Stage Central Park to name a few.

King Kino and Phantoms/Sak Pase are always a step ahead and have the capability of reinventing themselves. "Fwet Kach", their 2003 release, is proof positive. It revealed a sense of more mature sound and smoother blend of Konpa with an R & B touch. The band members have been hailed as an incredibly gifted group that is very involved in the writing, recording, and producing of all their albums. Their dedication has earned them a rightful place among the best Haitian bands.

These trendsetters understand the rules of putting grandiose stage presentation, outstanding live tunes, creating off the hook production and giving a hundred percent high energy animation. Theses musicians have real talent to give a surreal performance.

Dont be fooled by the name Phantoms because you will never see a Haitian band, with so much heart and soul on stage, that is determined to win over the most dubious audience.

-Discography: Ouvè Bariè Ya (1990), Pa Bouge (1992), D.C. Sou Kompa Live Vol 1, Rezireksyon/Resurrection (1995), Best of Phatoms I and Best of Phatoms II, Fly (1997), My Way - King Kino (solo album) (1999), Phanttoms featuring: Jose "Nick"Milord (1999), 10 Ans Deja (2000) Fwet Kach (2003)