Soca artists are now venturing into the realm of Calypso, the mother of music. Orlando Octave boldly enters the political kaiso arena in "Jawbone Lock," delivering an uncompromising commentary. He introduces his takedown using the stick fighters' war cry, "No Boi Man Doh Fraid No Boi Man!" He makes it clear that he is out for war and doesn't care who comes back at him with sparring vocals! Written by Lyndon Peters and produced by the veteran Kenny Phillips, the track channels the classic calypso tradition of calling names, exposing contradictions, and challenging public figures to account for their words and actions.
Hold on now, spare me a moment—Jawbone Lock refers to the tribal and partisan 'no comment' regarding events or speeches that were absurd, yet silence proved to be valuable. Now, those who were previously silent have found their voice and are speaking out against anything related to their opponents, even when the decisions made by their adversaries are positive.
The songwriter positions Orlando as a witness to shifting loyalties and sudden awakenings. There has been a real sudden awakening, and people who were previously silent are now becoming vocal. In this case, prioritizing loyalty to the party took precedence. The song criticizes calypsonians and commentators who, according to the narrative, were silent during one administration but regained their voice when the political landscape shifted. Through sharp storytelling and pointed humor, the piece questions selective outrage, political convenience, and the ease with which some voices fall quiet when their preferred side holds power. The refrain—urging certain critics to “look back” and reconsider their stance—echoes the long-standing kaiso ethic: if you’re going to talk, talk consistently. If you’re going to defend the people, defend them regardless of who sits in office.
Supported by Tricia Hamilton’s harmonies and Phillips’ unmistakable production touch, “Jawbone Lock” blends melody with message, reminding listeners that calypso remains one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most potent tools for social and political examination.
Kaiso is doing what he does best, which is keeping the mirror steady.
A brief, direct summary of "Jawbone Lock"
- The singer calls out Calypsonians who remained silent for years but suddenly became loud critics after the government changed. He accuses them of exhibiting hypocrisy and political expediency, only speaking when it aligns with their stance.
- The song boldly proclaims that some critics harbor bitterness due to their loss of contracts, positions, or influence.
- Again, the song tells the listener that these critics previously ignored public issues but now pretend to be "champions of the people."
- Then again, the refrain tells them to “lock back”—meaning hush, reflect, and examine themselves.
- Overall message: if you weren’t speaking when the country needed you, don’t pretend to be righteous now.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Jawbone Lock
Artist/Performed by: Orlando Octave
Written by: Lyndon Roberts
Produced by: Kenny Phillips
Brass Instruments:
Trumpet—Roger Jaggasar
Saxaphone—Oral Roberts
Trombone—David Jacob
Background vocals by Tricia Hamilton
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Calypso 🎶
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