- In Jamaica, before ska, reggae and dancehall there was mento. This is a history of Jamaica's first commercially popular music which emerged in the 19th century and peaked with the worldwide popularity of Trinidadian Calypso. Stylistically unique, mento is the original sound of Jamaica. The film includes rarely seen vintage footage from the 1950's and 1960's, interviews from leading authorities on mento, and performances by more contemporary bands that have kept the spirit of mento alive.
- Mento music is a fusion of African and European musical traditions that began in Jamaica in the 19th century. Although widely played throughout the island for many years, it wasn't until the early 1950's that the first mento recording appeared on a 78RPM disc. This decade was mento's golden age, as a large variety of artists recorded mento music in many different types of rhythms and styles. It was the peak of mento's creativity and popularity , as well as the birth of Jamaica's recording industry. Interviews include commentary from leading political , cultural and musical personalities like P.M. Edward Seaga, singers Toots HIbbert and Harry Belafonte, and guitarist Ernie Ranglin. Musical performances include a panorama of existing mento bands from all across the island, some of whom who have been playing continuously for over fifty years. There is also significant vintage footage from the 1950's and 1960's.—Bill Monsted
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What is the English language plot outline for Pimento and Hot Pepper: The Mento Story (2023)?
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