Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

Christopher Martin made a surprise appearance on stage.

With artistes often being a speck in the distance at stage shows, Sex in the City, held at Carlos Café in New Kingston was a pleasant change last Saturday night.

Elegant, up close and with good music on hand, although the venue wasn't packed, the performances of Queen Ifrica, Chino and Laden ended the night on a high note. Entertainers such as Christopher Martin, Tony Rebel and DASECA's first lady Loraine were also in the building.

Host and the event's promoter Nikki Z greeted the persons there after 11 p.m., announcing that the artistes would soon grace the stage. Persons surrounded the bar having a drink, while others chilled with friends as DJ Chris played some soothing R&B music. Shortly after midnight the Big Ship family strolled in, signaling the beginning of the performance segment.

Took control

Laden showed the crowd 'what's going on' as he took control of the stage with his Real Life and I'm Sorry, which the crowd sang along to. Looking well put together, one woman cried out, "Him can sing man and him look good!" He continued with Pon Top of Things before waxing a few more lyrics and leaving the stage.

Fellow Big Ship member, Chino, in a yellow shirt with jeans and a tie gave an excellent set. One woman in particular obviously enjoyed the artiste, screaming and singing along with him. Chino enticed with Fi Di Girls Dem Straight, his new song Ruff It Up, She Want It Hard, Protected and teased with Rave All Night. He soon took a seat on the stage as he reasoned with the audience.

Nikki Z invited Chris Martin, who was the first performer at Sex in the City three months ago, to make a special appearance. As usual Martin's honeyed voice wowed the audience as he did Take My Wings and Fly Away before doing Man A Galist and Nah Go Bow a capella.

Wooed the crowd

Queen Ifrica delivered an excellent set at Sex in the City.

The only female for the night, Queen Ifrica, was in her element as she wooed the crowd with Be Sure your Ready and Nah Go Bleach as media personality Empress cheered and carried on with her antics. Ifrica had the crowd thinking Below The Waist before ending her set with Daddy Don't Touch Me There. Tony Rebel also briefly touched the stage when Nikki Z called him up on the spot as he did a couple songs, including Fresh Vegetable.

When THE STAR spoke with Nikki Z she explained the concept behind her show saying, "It's about getting up close and personal - people get to relax and see them in their element." Next week, Alaine and Terror 3000 will touch the stage at Sex in The City.

Host Nikki Z chilling at her Sex in the City party.

Patrons chilling at Sex in the City held at Carlos Café, New Kingston, on Saturday. - Colin Hamilton photos