Like the longtail, the arrival of Byron Lee and his band, the Dragonaires, is a hallmark of the Bemudian summer, and when these legendary Jamaican entertainers step on to the stage in St. George's later this month, it will mark the 11th year they have done so - thanks to local promoter DeMello Entertainment Productions.

There will be one difference this time, however. During the Prime Minister of Jamaica's independence gala celebrations, Mr. Lee was honoured for "outstanding achievement in the performing arts".

Mr. Lee was recently described in the Jamaica Gleaner as "an individual who knows every aspect of the music business". In 1957 he founded the Dragonaires, and in 1968 the Dynamic Sound record company, which is still a major player in the business today.

The Dragonaires is one of the most sought-after bands in the Caribbean, and is known for the versatility of its repertoire, which includes rock `n' roll, calypso, Latin rhythms, Jamaican ska, soca, and pioneering a blend of soca and reggae which is known in the region as dancehall soca.

With more than 105 awards in the 42 years of their existence, Byron Lee and the Dragonaires take the sound of soca all over the world, performing in 36 cities annually. They have participated in many Trinidad Carnivals, and their soca song `Tiney Winey', became a major hit in the Caribbean and US.

As recording artists, their output is extensive.

On August 24 it will be Bermuda's turn to soak up the distinctive sounds of this highly popular group when DeMello Entertainment Productions presents `Caribbean Sty-Lee' at Tiger Bay. The programme will also include Caribbean artists Oscar B from Tobago, Roger George (formerly of Xtatik), Jumo from Guyana, and special guest Pat Ross, better known as `The Bomb', from St. Kitts.

"Pat is very, very versatile and does a little bit of everything. I want everybody to come on down and applaud her in on her first trip here," Mr. Eddie DeMello.

Last but certainly far from least, Bermuda will be represented by the dynamic duo Prestege.

As for Byron Lee and the Dragonaires' performance, the local promoter adds: "It is definitely the number one show of the year. He keeps bringing the people back to Tiger Bay year after year."

Mr. DeMello promises the show will have have something for everyone, and there will be plenty of security to ensure that a good time is had by all.

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Tickets ($50 in advance, $55 at the door) are available at the Music Box, Music Box East, Music World, Sound Stage, and the Somerset Laundromat. Visitors wishing hotel delivery should call 295-4839.