Why Sound Systems Are As Important As Music

It seems obvious when you think about it, but how much attention do you normally pay to sound systems when you’re on a night out? We take a look at the unsung heroes of the music world and find out more about some of the best sound systems around.

Originating in Jamaica, the term ‘sound system’ refers to a phenomena from the 1950s which saw DJs load up vans and utility trucks with large generators, turntables and speakers. The aim seems self-explanatory – to bring music to the masses, wherever they are. Although the term has moved on from its original meaning, sound systems are still very much a part of the modern free party scene, and are even flourishing thanks to a shift towards all things retro.

When the UK saw many Jamaican immigrants arrive between the 1950s and 1960s, music played an important role in how these new citizens were welcomed to the country. There is still a huge cultural significance attached to sound systems and the types of music that evolved from the era. Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, is still seen as the birthplace of many varieties of music, and sound systems played an important part in these developments.

Channel One Sound System

Feeding into the journey we’ve outlined, Mikey Dread and his brother Jah T took over the running of their father’s rig way back in 1979. Since then they have toured the world and specialise in bringing reggae to different places. They are a British institution and at the Sound Stage event they were letting partygoers create distinctive loops to the beats of DJ KiNK.

You might also like: Why the Trend for DIY Entertainment has Gripped Millennials

The Dutch Masters

This triumvirate of industrial-looking sound systems from The Netherlands are also regulars on the party scene. King Shiloh has pounding drum pads ready to beat along to, and the effect is impressive. Another drum-based mechanic is featured on the GoedBezig, which also happens to be built out of a car. This harks back to the origins of the sound systems.

Finally we have the theremin-playing sounds of the Olaf Mooij. The retro feel of the car works with the general aesthetic, and its one of the favourites on the touring circuit.

Nik Nowak’s Sound Tank

This impressive beast of a sound system is purpose built by German Nik Nowak. Reverb is the name of the game here, and as you can see it is impressively designed to handle all the top notes. The interactive element comes from partygoers being able to raise their hands in time to the music.

Legal Shot

Inspired by the most famous street party in Europe, French pioneers Legal Shot looked to Jamaica to get their sound system just right after a revelatory experience at the Notting Hill Carnival. The look is similar to that of Channel One, which isn’t all that surprising given that they both have roots in Kingston.

Realhorns

The most visually impressive sound system on display at Desperados W.T.F. Sound Stage was easily the German outfit that lived up to their name. Uniquely designed with festivals in mind, Realhorns amplify sound. Horns in general have been used from the early days of electronic music for this quality.

Sound systems have come a long way from the streets of Jamaica, but the spirit of bringing live music to partygoers remains a constant.

SaveSave

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.