Review: Soundsplash 2008
Brazilbeat Sound System
Soundsplash 15-17 Feb 2008
Highest respect goes out to the organisers of Soundsplash Eco-Reggae Festival in Raglan. This, the sixth intallment of the now legendary Aotearoa roots festival, boasted a strong lineup. Unfortunately, West Coast weather was not kind, and wind played havoc with production and scheduling on Friday. Salmonella Dub delivered a competent set; Little Bushman (the most anxiously awaited act of the night) managed to deliver their inspired offering during a dry spell. Thankfully, Opensouls were moved from the main stage into the Heavyweight tent, which turned into an unexpected high point of the weekend. Horns screamed and dancers sweated inside while the rain beat down relentlessly outside.
With improving weather, things really got rolling on Saturday. Homegrown favourites Ladi6 and Unity Pacific pleased afternoon crowds who drifted between the stages, to the dizzying array of food stalls, eco-area, "ragga rats kids zone," and other attractions. High energy headliner Junior Kelly uplifted and moved the massive as only a top Jamaican dancehall artiste can.
Saturday night was Sound System Night in the Heavyweight tent, showcasing the international trend in Sound System Culture toward live instrumentation. Heavy bass rocked the Waingaroa valley full spectrum from hip-hop to reggae to jungle/drum 'n bass. The Birmingham-based Groove Corporation entertained with lighhearted cutting and shredding of classic reggae tracks. BrazilBeat Sound System with Nego Beto on percussion and mic, pounded out a tight adrenaline-fueling set of Afro-beat, samba-breaks and baile-funk, grounded by live bass. The Beat Company's DJ Exile showed his lesser-known but very formidable skills on tenor sax. The mighty Overproof Sound System took the stage with DJ Juggla, 2 percussion players, and MCs Jah Grizzly and Messenger Douglas. Mashing up vintage Jamaican basslines with their own productions, Overproof demonstrated why they have emerged as one of the UK's most evident reggae ambassadors. Finally, defying rumors that their set would be cut short due to council regulations, Sunshine Sound System took the stage. The doors were shut, the time was expired, the packed tent was heaving. Those who got in were the lucky ones and were treated to a show of deck-dexterity from the legendary Downtown Brown and lyrical sharpness from brothers KPz and Staun. Walk-ons from Imon Star (Olmecha Supreme), Nego Beto (BBSS), and others brought the energy to delirium levels.
Soundsplash continues to reward as a roots event of uncompromising quality with unpretentious down-home vibes guaranteed.
by
Mara Weiss
The Beat Magazine (USA)