
What is a Soundclash?
A sound clash is a musical competition where opposing sound systems battle to win over the audience. These clashes often feature reggae, dancehall, jungle, and bass-heavy music, taking place in both indoor and outdoor venues.
Origins of Sound Clash Culture
The sound clash tradition began in Kingston, Jamaica, in the 1950s, when local reggae sound systems would challenge each other in musical duels. Each crew—known as a "sound system"—was made up of DJs, singers, and artists, each aiming to outperform and outshine the competition.
SAF Soundclash – Vancouver, 2025
Bringing this rich clash culture to a new generation, SAF Soundclash is a live music showdown based on the original sound clash format with a modern tweak.
4 crews, two opposing sound systems, one winner—chosen by the crowd. Crews will drop exclusives, remix tracks, and call out their opponents in a battle of sound, skill, and energy.
The first-ever SAF Soundclash takes place in Vancouver April 19, 2025, continuing the tradition of sound system warfare in a modern format.
🔥 Which crew will take the title? and the prize money! The audience decides. 🔥 RSVP 4 DISCOUNTED TICKETS
I. The SAF Soundclash Experience
At SAF's First Annual Soundclash, we’re bringing this traditional clash format into the modern world of bass music, with exclusive tracks, insane crowd energy, and no-holds-barred competition. Whether it’s dubplates (Vinyl or digital), bass-heavy rhythms, or crowd-shaking moments, only the best crew sound will emerge victorious. Get ready for an unforgettable battle sound, style and technique. SAF Soundclash Full Breakdown (Using Decibel Meter for Eliminations)
Round | Activity | Time Per Crew | Total Time | Crews Remaining | Elimination Method |
Doors Open & Warm-Up DJ | Crowd arrives, drinks flow, energy builds | - | 30 min | 5 | - |
Round 1: Statement Round | Each crew showcases their sound, no direct battles yet | 10 min | 50 min | 5 | No eliminations |
Decibel Reading #1 | Host announces decibel scores | - | 5 min | 5 | - |
Round 2: Clash Round 1 | Crews start direct battles, call-outs begin | 15 min | 60 min | 5 → 4 | Lowest decibel score eliminated |
Decibel Reading #2 | Host announces elimination | - | 5 min | 4 | - |
Round 3: Clash Round 2 | Battles intensify, more aggressive selections | 15 min | 60 min | 4 → 3 | Lowest decibel score eliminated |
Decibel Reading #3 | Host announces elimination | - | 5 min | 3 | - |
Round 4: Semi-Final | Crews fight for a spot in the final battle | 20 min | 60 min | 3 → 2 | Lowest decibel score eliminated |
Decibel Reading #4 | Host announces final 2 crews | - | 5 min | 2 | - |
Final Battle | Head-to-head final clash for the title | 20 min | 40 min | 2 → 1 | Highest decibel score wins |
Decibel Reading #5 & Winner Announcement | Host announces SAF Soundclash Champion | - | 5 min | 1 | - |
Victory Lap Set (Winner Crew) | Winning crew gets a short flex set | 15 min | 15 min | 1 | - |
Closing B2B Session (Optional) | Open decks for celebration | - | 30 min | - | - |
🔥 Key Notes:
Total Event Runtime: 5 hours, including breaks and transitions
Decibel Readings After Every Round to keep hype up and ensure transparency
Crowd Control Matters – the louder the reaction, the better the chance of survival
Winner Crew Gets a Final Set & the SAF Champion Title
This format ensures every crew gets a fair chance, but as the night progresses, the energy builds, competition tightens, and the crowd stays fully engaged.
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