The West Indian American Day Carnival Parade passed you by this past Labor Day.

No problem, mon! There’s plenty of Caribbean charm right here in the Best-Chester and beyond … you just have to look for it. No worries there—I’ve done all your work for you. Keep readin’, start jammin, skip a few hair appointments, and in no time, you’ll be as comfortable in the ragga scene as White Plains native Matisyahu (yarmulke not included).

To prepare yourself for heavy riddims, feel the flow from the inside out by filling your tank with Island munchies. Beginners should start at Golden Krust Bakery, the McDonalds of Jamaica, where Caribbean specialties are milder than at more traditional restaurants (67 S. Fourth Ave., Mount Vernon, 667-1301; 178 Fulton St. or 126 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, 682-7400; and 10 Anderson St., New Rochelle, 654-8960). Passed the test? You’re ready for the big time.

Casual Calabash in Mount Vernon is a Jamaican bar/restaurant that hosts club events some nights. They play dancehall, roots, and Calypso, and serve a fiery Jerk Chicken (12 E. 1st St.; Mount Vernon; 665-3723).
A professional crowd grooves to old-school dancehall and live bands at Caribe New York in New Rochelle. Expect a $10–$15 cover and obey the dress code – no jeans! (435 North Ave.; New Rochelle).
For a comprehensive selection of local reggae artists you can shadow like a cloud of smoke, check out Black Mind Records. The Mount Vernon-based label represents a great selection of dancehall and roots talent, announces upcoming shows and album releases, and is always in the market for groupies.

Lazy bum, get up and groove! Or, you can stay home and tune in to the “Father of Reggae,” Gil Bailey, Saturdays on WPAT (930 AM).

Reggae is easy to find in New York City, but if you live further north, the Upstate New York Reggae Guide (and corresponding myspace page) will satisfy your soul.

Have more suggestions? Like Bob Marley said, Hit me with music!

“One good thing about music, when it hits, you feel no pain.”