The members of St Elizabeth-based sound Ruff Cut have one thing on their mind: Win the 2023 Magnum All-Star Sound Clash title.

The sound, which comprises more than 10 members, emerged victorious in the second knockout round of the competition, which took place last Friday night at the All Star HQ on Olympic Way in St Andrew.

Tafari Rowe, aka Unruly OJ, a member of Ruff Cut, in an interview with the Jamaica Observer, said: “Our main goal is for us to win dis title ya. We look at this as a nice clash, and being a sound from the country, we always wanted to participate in a clash in Kingston to make ourselves known to the Kingston audience. We need da title ya.”

The members of the sound who participated in the clash last week against Lincoln Avenue based Twin Star International are DJ Juice and DJ Stingaz.

Rowe said the experience of the selectors helped in its win against Twin Star International.

“We were more organised and more experienced, and I believe that’s what gave us the edge. We participated in five rounds, drew in one and won three,” said Rowe.

Ruff Cut sound has been around since 2015 and has participated in at least six sound clashes over the years with three wins.

Rowe says clashing has helped the sound gain new audiences and bookings.

“Clashing has helped us out a lot because a lot of people follow clash. People from all over the world call us and want to book the sound. Participating in clashes also helps to build the confidence of the selectors,” he said.

The third knockout round of the Magnum All-Star Sound Clash is scheduled for this Friday when Japan-based Rispec Jam goes up against Clarendon’s Echo One Sound.

The contest, which is aimed at highlighting sound systems in the dancehall culture, will see sounds competing for a cash prize of $1 million.