This post first appeared on Sokah2Soca, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.
Once again, the sweet sound of steelband music is rising from panyards across Trinidad, and this is a reminder that Panorama 2026 is already in the works. Today, we have news about last year’s small band co-champions, the Golden Hands Steel Orchestra, news that you will appreciate. After tying for first place in Carnival 2025 with T&TEC East Side Dimension, the question on everyone’s mind is: Can they do it again? It was musical precision that led to their co-champion performance, emotional storytelling, and the power of youth-driven excellence. Small Bands Panorama will be a must-see, must-listen part of the Panorama competition for Carnival 2026.
Golden Hands returns to competition, to defend their title with "All Aboard" by Atlantic, featuring Tony Prescott This is an iconic anthem that has found new life as the Golden Hands' Panorama selection, arranged by Vanessa Headley. Here's a breakdown of the song, the arranger, and the competitive stakes.
The Song—"All Aboard"
We said that the tune is an iconic song and whenever you hear the name Tony Prescott, this song immediately comes to mind. Regardless of Tony's repertoire, he will always be known for this song. Released in 1997 with production by Junior "Ibo" Joseph, this song is played on every boat ride that is now a staple for Carnivals across North America and the Caribbean. Since this song is so well known, everyone hearing the steelband version will easily recognize it and be able to understand and appreciate the nuances of the musical arrangement. All Aboard is real Trinidadian party music and will have people dancing to the sweet sounds that Golden Hands will deliver. But wait, since Edwin Yearwood wrote the song you may be asking if he released a version of his own... the answer is yes, with Krosfyah but the first release was by Atlantik.
The Arranger: Vanessa Headley
She is not just the arranger for the Golden Hands Steel orchestra but also a presenter on WACK Visual Radio. She brings her signature blend of technical mastery and emotional storytelling to the panyard.
She recently arranged for the Metro Steel Orchestra in the 2025 New York Panorama (Brooklyn's Labor Day Carnival). Her arrangements are known for layered harmonies, unexpected modulations, and groove-rich phrasing—perfect for a song like “All Aboard.”
The Stakes
Golden Hands enters Panorama 2026 with momentum, confidence, and a song that feels tailor-made for the steelband orchestra. Their 2025 tie was historic—not just for the result, but for what it represented: the rise of a youth orchestra with professional standards and cultural depth. Vanessa was celebrated by all her fans, especially those who know her personally but also by her WACK Visual Radio 90.1 listeners, who enjoy listening to her breakdown musical arrangements every Sunday after De Dotish Hour.
Final Thoughts
All Aboard is not your typical high-tempo Soca song. It was released during a time when people viewed Soca music as sweet, characterized by a slower bpm. It will be fascinating to see how Vanessa maneuvers around these limitations to deliver the sweetness of the song while capturing the essence and vigor of a Panorama test piece. There is a risk of playing at a slower bpm, especially in the high-energy world of Panorama. If done correctly, "All Aboard" could become a Panorama standout—not based on hype and speed but one that resonates with pan fanatics.
We eagerly anticipate Tony Prescott, dressed in sailor white, waving his flag during the band's performance. Panorama isn’t just a competition—it’s a cultural ritual. It’s where arrangers become architects, players become storytellers, and songs become movements. With Tony Prescott, Vanessa Headley, and the full force of Golden Hands behind this year’s performance, “All Aboard” could be more than a tune—it could be a triumph.
So as the panyards heat up and the Savannah waits, one question echoes: Will Golden Hands ride this rhythm all the way to the top again? Bush Judges, real judges, music enthuasists, let the music play on!
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Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: All Aboard
Artist/Performed by: Atlantik feat. Tony Prescott
Lead Vocalist: Tony Prescott
Written by: Edwin Yearwood
Executive Producers: Cliff Harris, Junior "Ibo" Joseph & JW Productions
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
JW Productions 1997
Genre: Soca ?
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