Despite a few glitches and semi-empty house, “International Night” at the Caribbean Fever Irie Jamboree Music Festival did not disappoint. The three-day festival featured several ‘”big-name” acts in Reggae, Dancehall, Calypso and Soca. However, what set last Friday’s “International Night” apart from the rest was its history making status. For the first time since its launch in 2003, the traditionally reggae / dancehall festival featured acts from the French Caribbean islands.

Roger “Shoubou” Eugene of Tabou Combo credit: Vania Andre

On August 30, the Irie Jamboree brought legendary bands, Tabou Combo and Kassav, to Brooklyn’s Barclay’s Center. Award-winning and multi-platinum musician and producer Wyclef Jean headlined the show, while cultural comedian Vlad “Haitian V” Calixte hosted. Djakout #1 also performed.

Jocelyne Béroard of Kassav, credit: Vania Andre

Music is a universal language and we’re thrilled to showcase a fusion of iconic artists from the French Caribbean on the opening night of this year’s historic Caribbean Fever Irie Jamboree Music Festival weekend at the Barclays Center,” said Blandine Jean-Paul, principal and executive marketing director of White-Mark Entertainment.

DJ Stakz Hi-Profyle, one of New York’s most popular Haitian-American DJs, hit the stage, livening up the crowd with some of their favorite tunes. Much to the crowd’s surprise, J-Perry performed his chart-topping hit “Dekole.” Scheduled right at the beginning of Labor Day weekend, “International Night” set the tone for the rest of the holiday weekend.The Barclay’s Center hosted the event in commemoration of the West Indian American Labor Day Carnival Parade in Brooklyn that attracts 3 million people every year