The Filipinos are a musical bunch – that much we know. While there are pop singers, rock outfits and cover bands a-plenty, dub and reggae aren’t as well represented on the island nation. But one humble music man and his sound-system are looking to change all that. The Manila-based DJ and producer Red-i, along with his crew, have been keeping the Pinoy reggae culture alive and kicking by hosting regular parties and gigs at B-Side – an alternative venue in Manila where Red-i is a co-owner.

His latest album Jahdgement Day is full of grimey beats and experimental sounds. It ceremoniously debuted on April 20 – an appropriate day for a dub album release, we feel. And Red-i, along with select members of his sound-system, is in Hong Kong this fortnight to launch Jahdgement Day in our neck of the woods.

Helping to headline the launch is Red-i’s partner in crime and Manila’s ‘first lady of bass’ DJ Soulflower, known for her deft mixing of bass, dancehall, ragga jungle and reggae tunes on the decks. Tearing up the mics live are MC Artstrong and Ras Taro, also Manila based.
True to the intergalactic cover image of the Jahdgement Day album (Google it!) we think the sights and sounds of this upcoming gig will leave you feeling like you’ve just wandered the universe and returned to planet Earth… with the smell of a fresh blunt lingering in the air.

Andrea Yu

The Red-i soundsystem will be spinning a set at Backstage with local support on Saturday June 9. Click here for more info.