Greetings from the Generals!
Welcome to the Generals little area of the world wide web. You are either here because you have seen us at a live show and want to know more or because someone has told you about the band. Either way, we hope that you find what you are looking for. Our band was formed in 2004 with the purpose of channeling all of our influences, both local and foreign, into a unique sound. The band is comprised of very unique individuals and the music represents this.
The Generals is about a strong passion for rhythm and melody, yet it is also about having fun. Its is equal parts conscience and comedy; equal parts unity and individuality.
After years of honing our craft, and armed with an upcoming album and no end of confidence we are ready to take on the world. Thanks for taking the time to hear, see and read about us. Feel free to send us your feedback because each one of you, as a fan, are our fellow travelers on the journey upon which we now embark. Respect.
Shyamal Chandradathsingh
14th December 2007
Darren "Dern" Pierre
Guitars, Vocals
While the Generals is Darren's first band, he has been involved in music since the age of 14, when he first picked up a guitar and started to write songs. Over the years Darren has morphed from a songwriter into a true frontman, and as those who have been to Generals shows can tell you, he loves to crack a good joke. Darren is one of the two primary lyricists in the band and a glance at his lyrics will show you that his sharp wit, no matter what the topic, cuts through with no nonsense.
Shyamal Chandradathsingh
Bass, Vocals
Along with Darren and Puss, Shyamal is one of the founding members of the band. Shyamal started off in bands playing guitar, but but rose to the task of playing bass when the Generals could not find a bassist suited to their eclectic sound. He has grown to love the instrument and approaches it with unparalleled intensity. Shyamal often says he shares the same blood with Otto and one listen to the Generals rhythm section will show you what he means.
Jonathan "Otto" Otway
Drums
Otto has been playing drums for the past eight years. He is by far one of the most versatile drummers to emerge from Trinidad. Because he is so comfortable in so many genres, his rock solid drumming allows the Generals to venture into almost any form of music and still sound different.
Keshav Singh
Keyboards, Vocals, etc.
Keshav is the younger brother of Generals bassist, Shyamal. Keshav is probably the most talented person you will ever meet. He excels at soccer, having played at the highest level during university in America and was part of the Trinidad and Tobago Under 23 squad. He also has his own TV entertainment show on local channel, Win TV. It doesn't stop there, he is also a music producer, having worked with 3Canal, Bunji Garlin and a number of local and foreign acts. He is comfortable on almost any instrument you put in front of him for five minutes. He was originally brought into the band to help fill out the sound but after the first practice, the band realized he had actually changed it for the better. He is now a key part of the Generals sound and takes up lead vocal duties as well for a few of the songs.
Brian "Puss" McMeo
Vocals, Vibes
Puss is no ordinary chanterman. What can we say - Puss is the Baddest. As the other lyricist and generator of mad vibes in the Generals sound system, Puss is always a crowd favorite, switching between comedy and reality in painting a detailed image of all he sees around him. Much respect to the resident gyangsta!