To Order
Call Clemson Band Office
(864) 656-3380
or e-mail Paul Buyer
pbuyer@clemson.edu
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Steel Band Releases New Recording
The Clemson University Steel Band has released “One Small Step for Pan,” the group’s latest recording. Featuring new steel band arrangements of several popular tunes, the new CD includes songs by Jimmy Buffet, Bobby Mc Ferrin, and Brian Wilson.
“We are glad to showcase songs by some of America’s most popular musicians,” said Paul Buyer, the director of the band, “but we are also pleased to have works by some legendary contributors to steel band music.”
“In Sync With You” is one such tune. Written by Ray Holman, this piece combines several musical styles, including rock, funk, and calypso. “Ray is a native of Trinidad and long-time performer and composer of steel drum music. He is one of a few master builders of steel drums, as well,” said Buyer.
Another tune by a legendary steel band contributor is “Pan Squared” written by Chris 
Wabich. Wabich is a leading composer and steel drum tuner. “He’s tuned our drums several times and does an excellent job,” added Buyer.
Among the more recognizable songs on the CD is “Sloop John B,” a song made famous by the Beach Boys in 1966. “This is a traditional folk song from the West Indies about a sunken boat,” explained Buyer, “which was also recorded by the Kingston Trio. The version on the CD is considered the most popular.”
“Don’t Worry Be Happy” is a familiar song that listeners will also know. Released by vocalist Bobby Mc Ferrin in 1988, the song was #1 on several U.S. pop charts that year and won two Grammy Awards—Best Pop Vocal Performance and Song of the Year.
Percussionist Arthur Lipner appears on the CD performing on vibraphone and marimba. His playing is featured on the tune “Heartland,” a slow melodic composition. In contrast, “Na Do Dat” is an up tempo Soca selection, meaning “Don’t Do That” in Trinidadian creole.
As for the CD’s titles Buyer said, “It was the idea of one of the band members. We were trying to come up with a title that included either the word ‘Steel’ or ‘Pan.’ After several suggestions, we selected ‘One Small Step for Pan’ because we believe the recording adds to the wealth of college steel band music that’s being performed and recorded around the country.”
“One Small Step for Pan” is $10. To order copies, call the Clemson University band office at (864) 656-3380 or by e-mailing Paul Buyer at pbuyer@clemson.edu.
