Alison Hinds - Queen of Soca in Queens

Alison Hinds, a major soca star from Barbados, comes to Queens this weekend, playing in Richmond Hill, the heart of the Indo-Caribbean community. Hinds, known as the Queens of Soca, is bound to get a warm reception. She also sings reggae and zouk in her concerts, and her style isn't pure soca. "She's great, and really fun live," the About.com Guide to World Music told me.

Here's an interesting tidbit on soca music: "it's a blend of traditional Calypso and Indian Music."

• Alison Hinds - Soca Concert
• April 21, 2006; Showtime - Midnight - Doors open 9 p.m. - 4 a.m.
• $20 in advance, more at the door
• Rum Jungle, 121-08 Jamaica Ave, Richmond Hill, 718-848-7171
• Related - Soca Music 101