Shawn Thwaites Rebel Quartet

Shawn Thwaites is a reputable and versatile steelpan musician and performer. His accomplishments include recordings with notable artists, such as Lauryn Hill, Walter Beasley, and Greg Philliganes. Thwaites earned his stripes within the steeldrum fraternity performing with several steel orchestras, such as Pan Masters, Moods Pan Groove and Oasis Steel Orchestra. The Shawn Thwaites Rebel Quartet (STRQ) was born out of an exploratory effort to fuse intricate masterpieces of Caribbean, African, American, and European composers. With the steeldrum at the helm, STRQ is undoubtedly the world’s most eclectic ensemble. As a steeldrum musician, Thwaites’ vision was to compile a cadre of talented musicians in a manner that would authentically present the steel drum and its deeply rooted history, while simultaneously pushing the instrument and culture to uncharted territories. Bringing together elements of jazz, rhythm and blues, hip hop, afro-beat, and calypso, STRQ pushes the limits of innovation, while remaining loyal to authentic world sounds. STRQ’s music is a healer, a weapon, a legal drug. It truly doesn’t get any better.