As Trinidad and Tobago’s 2025 Carnival prepares to explode into full swing this weekend (March 1), soca icon Machel Montano has once again proven why he reigns as the undisputed King of Soca. With the release of his highly anticipated album, One Degree Hotter, Montano has delivered a scorching collection of soca anthems and global collaborations, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable Carnival season.
Released on Tuesday (February 25), One Degree Hotter marks Montano’s first full-length album since 2021’s Wedding Album. The title is a clever nod to both his fiery soca catalog and his recent academic achievement: a Master’s degree in Carnival Studies from the University of Trinidad and Tobago. This dual celebration of music and education underscores Montano’s deep commitment to elevating soca music and Carnival culture on the world stage.
A Star-Studded Musical Journey
One Degree Hotter is a testament to Montano’s ability to blend soca with global sounds, featuring an impressive lineup of collaborations that span genres and continents. The album includes tracks with Grammy-winning R&B sensation Ne-Yo (“Truth & Balance”), Nigerian Afrobeats powerhouse Davido (“Fling It Up”), and Vincentian soca star Skinny Fabulous (“Fallen Fetters”). Montano also teams up with Trinidadian legends Drupatee and Lady Lava on the infectious “Pepper Vine,” while fellow soca heavyweight Bunji Garlin joins him for the heartfelt anthem “Home Is Where the Heart Is.”
Each collaboration brings a unique flavor to the album, showcasing Montano’s versatility and his knack for creating music that resonates across borders. From the pulsating rhythms of Afrobeats to the soulful melodies of R&B, One Degree Hotter is a celebration of unity through music.
A Road March Contender
One of the album’s standout tracks is the “road mix” of Montano’s latest hit, “Pardy.” Already a fan favorite, the song is a top contender for this year’s Road March title, a prestigious honor awarded to the most-played song during Carnival’s parade. If Montano secures the win, it will be his 11th Road March victory, tying him with the legendary Lord Kitchener for the most wins in history.
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