Preparations for the 2006 renewal of Rebel Salute are reportedly in full gear, with the list of artistes officially confirmed thus far reading like a "veterans reunion".

The latest acts from what is widely dubbed "the foundation era", are singer Leroy "The Don" Smart, deejay duo Michigan and Smiley and the popular vocal trio from yesteryear, the Tamlins, all making their first appearance on the roots and culture showcase.

But it will not all be retro-music for the event that has been branded "a conscious party" since its inception 13 years ago. Noddy Virtue of Rising Star fame, and Rated R (for rightegousness) another upcoming act, are also on the bill.

Even though the promoters of Rebel Salutes are keeping the names of some of the main attractions close to their chest, at least until the press launch scheduled for December 29 at the Hilton, Splash has been reliably informed that Turbulance and Queen Ifrica have been confirmed.

To date, two foreign acts have been added to the line-up that includes headliner Burning Spear along with Third World and Inner Circle Bands.

The overseas performers are Germany's top reggae star Gentleman and Leoes do Israel (Lion of Israel) band from Brazil.

Live Wyya which will be leaving the island on Monday for London, England to compete in the Global Battle of the Bands (GBOB) music contest, will also appear on Rebel
Salute. Having won the local competition over 15 other bands, Live Wyya will represent Jamaica against bands from 25 other countries, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and Norway.

Chances are, on January 14, Rebel Salute will thus potentially be the first local gig for Live Wyya as The World's Best Band, should they win.

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