CPMC Chair, Tamara Gibson, says she is thrilled at the quality of music released by local artists. In her opinion, she says, the fight for the Soca Crown will be fierce.

“The music is definitely commendable this year. I think it has far surpassed our expectations. The music was released very early, and they've really been in circulation for quite a long time. So it's given us an opportunity to get familiar with it, to become excited about it. And I really think the three monarchs will have to put out their best foot to defend their titles this year,” she explained.

Deputy Police Commissioner, Ronald Phillip, assures that on the security side of things, police officers’ leave has been cancelled. All stops have been pulled, he said, to ensure the safety of all patrons and revellers.

“All officers on leave will be brought in to assist with policing carnival. I must tell you we will have an additional component to our policing. Yesterday the police were prepared to receive some high tech drones, so we will do aerial policing also,” the DCP explained.

Saint Lucia will come alive from July 1-17 to the sound of Dennery segment, soca, calypso, and steelpan permeating through the streets.