Five Star General advances to Magnum All-Star Sound Clash final
After weeks of competition, the grand final of the Magnum All-Star Sound Clash is scheduled for Saturday, May 20.
Last Friday, St Thomas-based Five Star General became the first sound to advance to the final, after it defeated Unruly Stumpy in the first semi-final.
Busloads of supporters witnessed the fiery clash at 153 Olympic Way.
Andrew Pang, a member of Five Star General, said the team’s confidence was what helped them in their defeat over Unruly Stumpy.
“We had the confidence and the belief, so that’s what helped us. At first, they [Unruly Stumpy] were leading. But we were confident in a victory. Heading to the finals is like a dream come true for us. All of us on the team dreamt of making it to the final,” said Pang.
Five Star General has been around for five years. Some of its members are based overseas. The local members include Worl Blacks, Bad Stain and Craig Genius.
“This is the first big clash that we have participated in. We decided to enter because people in our home parish of St Thomas were always encouraging us to enter a clash outside of the parish,” Pang disclosed.
Co-promoter of the Magnum All-Star Sound Clash Chieftin Campbell said the weekly event has been entertaining and he is looking forward to the final.
“It has been a hugely entertaining sound clash. The talent that we’ve seen so far on display has been really good. I can’t wait for the world to see what these sounds have to offer,” said Campbell.
He added: “Sound clashes are one of the most authentic dancehall sports that we have. And to see these guys flex their muscles each week is amazing. You have a lot to look forward to at the final including guest performances from artistes. It’s gonna be a really good clash with surprises in store from our sponsors.”
Kamal Powell, regional marketing manager for Magnum Tonic Wine, said: “The weekly face-offs have been scintillating, to say the least. Magnum is impressed by the level of talent in the sound system community. Week after week we have seen where sound groups have taken the feedback from the judges to come back stronger each week. We are now in the semi-finals and we can’t wait to see who will win at the finals come May 20.”
He continued: “Magnum is known for putting on a great show in the dancehall space and the finals for the Magnum All-Star Sound Clash will be no different. As a brand that supports dancehall culture, we take pride in knowing that we always provide a platform for persons in the space, and they will definitely benefit from the exposure because a lot of local and international eyes will be on this final show.”
At the end of the competition, the winning sound system will walk away with a cash prize of $1,000,000, a trophy, the best sound system title, and bragging rights.