Longshot Sound System

Dub Smugglers meets Operation flyer

Dub Smugglers Meets Operation

Well lets see how I can do with this review, I am friends with both sounds and assisted with putting on the event, but will try to remain as neutral as possible. The promise of a Roots & Dub style dance was most definitely fulfilled, on a Sunday night on a corner in Rusholme at Saki Bar.

Operation sound System originally hails form Blackburn and was established in 1996. Operation has met with many legendary sounds including Jah Shaka, Iration, Freedom Masses, King Earthquake and many others. Nick aka Dubite is the man behind the controls, he has crafted his own system, versions and releases and guides Operation through quality Dub excursions. Operations tag line: “who feels it knows it”.

Dub Smugglers are a fledgling sound based in North Manchester, consciously approaching the sound business with respect for the culture and heritage. Ed speed heads up the crew and the system is based around old school and vintage equipment. Dub Smugglers have the support of some quality but not yet known selectors and established artists.

The venue which hosts many underground music events, acoustic nights and is a friendly, busy hub was cleared of all furniture on the ground floor to make way for the Speaker stacks of Operation and Dub Smugglers sound systems. With the dance starting at 8pm both sounds arrived in good time to set up and have something to eat from the barbeque. The downstairs room at Saki’s felt very much like a dancehall with enough space to dance or to relax and listen.

From the start this event was most definitely a friendly meeting, with both sounds paying each other respect and trying to follow each other’s vibes and selections. Dub Smugglers entered this dance as the underdog and with Operation fresh from his quality performance at the UK Dub Cup Quarter Final, the Smugglers were under pressure.

Dub Smugglers initially had problems getting the sound running properly but as the dance started both sounds were looking good and sounding nice. Operation running on his custom preamp and crossover set-up and Dub Smugglers on what looks like an early Jah Tubbys preamp.

As the session progressed each sound pulled out Dubplates and unique versions of songs. Further into the night Operation clearly stepped up a gear, with their bass shaking the place like thunder and blessing the dance with exclusive Duplates giving them their first play in public.

The playing of these exclusive dubs seemed as definite encouragement and respect given to Dub Smugglers. At this point when it seemed Dub for Dub, Dub Smugglers could not quite keep up both with selection and quality of sound. At points the tops in particular got a bit crunchy as Dub Smugglers tried to match Operation’s weight and treble.

Despite this Dub Smugglers played like a true sound system, and in that vein displayed determination, creativity and individuality. Smuggler’s guest mic man Kwasi Asante delivered truly deep and resounding performances over Smuggler’s Dubs. Although it could be said Operation came out on top, Dub Smugglers definitely left as a credible sound system, and better for it.

Look out for Dub Smugglers pushing some Dub contraband near you soon.

Check out:
http://www.dubsmugglers.com
http://www.operationsoundsystem.co.uk
http://www.myspace.com/operationsoundsystem
http://www.myspace.com/kwasiasante
Peace
Louis Longshot