16 May 2013 (gig)
26 June 2013
The Roundhouse gig was the third of five gigs designed to pitch the sound of Brazilian bass culture from Salvador against the sound of UK bass culture from London.
Salvador is Brazil’s oldest city and has the largest African cultural presence in the country. This entwining of cultures inevitably brings with it a rich and eclectic mix of urban, popular, global and ancient sounds. Known for being Brazil’s hub when it comes to reggae and dub, Salvador is the bass culture capital of Brazil.
Reggae has been a long-standing asset to the culture of London Town. Brought over in the 1950s from Jamaica, the reggae culture has grown to be inherent within the culture of London its self. The huge prominence of reggae within the London music scene has grown, meaning London is now host to some of the best next generation sounds within bass culture.
Oquadro were up first. Tipped as one of the top acts in Brazil at the moment, fusing smooth Latin grooves with old school hip-hop and a whole heap of cool. These guys really brought the Brazilin vibes with them. Each of the bands MC’s brought a unique flow and offering a great energy to the crowd. The super chilled and relaxed atmosphere they created was offset by a few upbeat party tracks. This great balance had the audience dancing and shaking their stuff throughout the gig.
Following Oquadro and representing London came the Heatwave sound-system. These boys seriously know how to start the party, or in this case, the carnival! Joined on stage by Lady Chann, they instantly got to work building the vibes. The aim of the set was to recreate some carnival vibes in the style of Notting Hill. This began with handing out whistles and horns to the crowd inviting a high-energy party to ensue. The Heatwave boys took us thorough a fun loving set of dancehall and bashment, with horns and whistles galore! There was a fantastic atmosphere, with the boys really encouraging everyone to have a great time and get involved.
The highlight of the Heatwave had to be the soca dance that they taught to the crowd. This really got everyone involved. It was simple, effective and proved to be all round, great fun.
All in all I would say that the night represented, not so much a clash, but more a meeting of some fantastic bass culture sounds form two lively cities that certainly know how to throw a party. When the music is as vibrant and pumping, cool and bass heavy as these guys play, you can’t really go wrong.
