Biography

For the last three years, the calypso big band "Lord Mouse and the Kalypso Katz," founded by Keeley Brineman, Boris Kontorowski and Tom Lee Who, has been expanding slowly from their hometown of Berlin, Germany. The founding members decided to take an active role in exposing the public to this almost extinct genre, not only for their love of it's music, but it's unique sound, cheeky social commentary and "slacking" culture. With a large repetoire of originals, plus some old covers that should be listened to by the uninitiated, this 17 piece collective has quickly established itself in the vibrant music scene in their hometown, upping the ante by delivering an engaging stage show, with colourful costumes, engaging on-stage antics, and a professional yet relaxed group of musicians. Since the inception of the band, this musical genre, native to Trinidad and Tobago, is becoming not only more accessible and popular in Berlin, but popping up in all major cities in Germany. Above all, the band leads the way for the public to rediscover the festive 1940s-50s in a popular, up to date style that appeals to contemporary music and fasion lovers, while retaining it's authentic roots. The members of the band hail from countries scattered all over the globe. The lead singer, Lord Mouse, of the USA, leads the 10 piece orchestra (4 horns, 2 percussionists, stand-up bass, ukelele, guitar, piano, marimbas, and a female vocal sextet.)
The songs are products of what is becoming the new calypso era, contributing to the preservation and propogation of the genre, while giving it a more contemporary make-over. Commercial success comes after the more noble endeavor of bringing this great style back into public awareness, from the 1920's right up until today. The first CD, released in 2008 by the Department for Cultural Affairs, quickly circulated among Berlin's top latin and dance floor DJ's. The band has since finished a new CD, yet unreleased, and tours around Europe considerably. They've played in the majority of Berlin's most respected venues, such as Haus den Kulturen den Welt, Admiral's Palast, SO36 etc, and many festivals, Fusion, Breminale, Soul fest Lille, etc. and circulated on big radio stations, such as Radio 1 Berlin, and around Europe in cities throughout France, Spain and Russia.