Sashi has announced Synergy, which organisers are calling a nod to the glory days of dancehall, where sound systems and DJs had to prove themselves on the musical battlefield through a clash.

Sound systems are what birthed dancehall; before dubplates, artistes did live clashes on sound systems.

For the inaugural staging of Synergy, taking place on May 24, as part of the Sashi Experience Festival at Plantation Cove in St. Ann, Sashi has called upon Tony Matterhorn, Ricky Trooper, Metro Media and Bass Odyssey.

In addition to its lineup of artistes, Synergy will feature four sides, each with its unique style and sound. From the legendary Sound Clash Sound Systems:

1. Tony Matterhorn

Known for his explosive energy and infectious vibes, Tony Matterhorn emerged from Kingston, making a name for himself as part of the dynamic duo King Addis. His ability to deliver an energetic and exciting live show propelled him to victory at the dancehall World Cup in 2000.

2. Metro Media

With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Metro Media has garnered the respect of artistes and audiences worldwide. The creative song selections and onstage antics of their selector “Big Belly Sky Juice”  have earned him the Guinness Sounds of Greatness Recognition Award, celebrating his contribution to dancehall culture.

3. Ricky Trooper

A legendary sound killer from Killamanjaro and owner of Sound Trooper Sound System, Ricky Trooper boasts an impressive 50 years of experience in the industry. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award during Reggae Month Essence of Reggae Promotion, in recognition of his unparalleled skill and contributions to the dancehall scene.

4. Bass Odyssey

Hailing from the hills of St. Ann, Bass Odyssey is widely recognized as Jamaica’s best sound system, dominating the music arena for over 23 years. Known as the “World Champion Sound,” Bass Odyssey has won numerous sound clash titles and continues to captivate music lovers worldwide with its unique juggling and clashing of reggae and dancehall music.

These legendary dancehall icons will converge at Synergy for a night of electrifying showdowns and musical prowess.

At the core of it, Sashi also introduces a pioneering draft system, where DJ/Sound System will select 10 artistes from a pool of Dancehall Clash heavyweights from the 90s. These legendary figures, with their extensive catalogue of songs, include Professor Nuts, Danny English, Oneil Famous, Peter Metro, Junior Cat, King Kong, Bunny General, Lone Ranger, Nitty Kutchie, Quenchaid, Major Mackerel, Josey Wales, Screechie Joe, Little John, Admiral Bailey,  Roundhead, Guinney Pepper, Utan Green, Singing Melody, Wickerman, Silver Cat, Ricky General, Mega Banton, Admiral Tibet, Jigsy King, Flourgon, Daddy Lizard, Echo Minott, Frisko Kid, Terry Ganzie.

“This is more than just a clash – it’s a celebration of our musical heritage and the vibrant culture that defines us as Jamaicans,” says Horatio Hamilton, founder of Sashi. “Synergy pays homage to the pioneers of clash culture and the cassette stalls in Halfway Tree that kept us abreast of clashes and new sound releases. It’s a nod to the legends born from these clashes – Sky Juice, Tony Matterhorn, and Ricky Trooper – and the cultural icons they helped shape. This event transcends borders and brings together fans of the music and the culture, from uptown to downtown. This was what made Ninja Man, Yellow Man, Shabba, Beenie Man, Wayne Wonder and Bounty Killer household names in the 80’s and 90’s.”

Synergy promises to be a night of nostalgia, excitement, and raw energy, drawing fans from around the globe to witness history in the making.