Kernel revives Kitch's spirit

Kernel revives Kitch's spirit
Newsday News, Thursday, November 27th, 2008

WITH CHRISTMAS in the air once again, Angostura brings back to life the iconic "Drink Ah Rum" commercial that starred the equally iconic Grandmaster himself, Lord Kitchener. In doing so, Angostura ensured that by "keeping it in the family," the 2008 version would be distinct from, and yet complements the original ad by linking up with Kernel Roberts, Kitchener's son.

The spot features a typical Trini home caught up in the merriment of the Christmas season.

Back in the early nineties most can recall the immortal Grandmaster strumming his guitar to the opening bars of that perennial Christmas classic "Drink Ah Rum" in that now-legendary Angostura ad. It would prove to be one of the most talked-about commercials ever made for local television.

Enter Kernel Roberts, son of the Grandmaster. An accomplished singer/songwriter himself, both he and Angostura had no qualms about reviving the spot.

Christopher Noel, Marketing Manager, Angostura, felt the link up with Kitchener's son was a natural progression from the old TV spot.

"Times may have changed," Noel noted "but life is still about friends and sharing enjoyable times together and that is what Angostura is all about."

Errol Peru, former manager of Lord Kitchener and current manager of Kernel, said that one of his objectives was to keep alive the Grandmaster's legacy.

"One of the avenues," explains Peru, "was a remake of that Angostura spot. It clearly emphasises that the baton has been passed, from father to son."

Blink, and you may just miss a cameo appearance by soca superstar Machel Montano joining in the fun. You can view it for yourself and revel in a giddy mixture of tradition meeting originality.