Jamesie, King of Scratch

Documentary

USA, 70 minutes

Directed by Andrea Leland

Summary:

James Brewster, 79, is known for his humorous and provocative compositions, and lively performances. Scratch band music is an ingenuous form of folk music that originated in the U.S. Virgin Islands over a century ago. The lyrics are a form of oral history used to immortalize significant historical events, spread gossip, and relay the trials and tribulations of living. Playing with both homemade and contemporary instruments, the music has a crudeness to it that is intoxicating and rhythmic speaking to both the beauty and hardship of the Crucian (of St. Croix) lifestyle.