Despite international visibility and fame, there is an age old debate that resonates among clash fans of which sound rules Jamaica’s countryside — Bass Odyssey or Black Kat. Hailing from the remote Jamaican territories of Saint Ann and Christiana, far from the city life of Dancehall hotbed Kingston, respectively Bass Odyssey and Black Kat have been battling over the title of Jamaica’s top country sound for years.

Now, before thousands of clash revelers at both World Clash New York R.E.S.E.T. on Saturday, April 7 (w/Fire Links, Tony Matterhorn, Poison Dart, Earth Ruler and David Rodigan) and World Clash Jamaica R.E.S.E.T. on Easter Monday, April 9 (w/Kilamanjaro, Black Blunt, Heavy Hammer, Rootsman and Code Red), these powerhouse sounds will settle the score. While the stages in New York and Jamaica will serve as battlefields, the ultimate proving ground for Bass Odyssey and Black Kat will clearly be in their homeland in front of loyal supporters at Pier One.

Black Kat with Panther (left) Winners of Death Before Dishonor clash.

Stellar war sounds Bass Odyssey and Black Kat are synonymous with high power sound clash. Rising to prominence in the early 90’s, the sounds have cemented them selves as fixtures in the sound clash arena, generating scores of victories, a worldwide fan base and the utmost respect from fellow members of the fraternity. Known for craftily defeating legions of sounds over time, Bass Odyssey and Black Kat remain the most feared players in game. Most of today’s modern day sound systems don’t feel that they can properly reach the big leagues without facing off against these clash leaders.

It’s no secret that Bass Odyssey and Black Kat are not just dynamic sounds, but also powerhouse brands. Their names carry weight, allowing them to periodically interchange and showcase team players without losing their position or credibility. Regardless of who plays the sounds, one can almost always anticipate high caliber, strategic sound clash entertainment. Bass Odyssey also excels in juggling. Boasting the role of teacher, some of today’s most prominent sound men admit to learning or studying the tactics and careers of Bass Odyssey and Black Kat front men. Historically, one of the most heralded and praised duos in the sound clash industry consisted of DJ Mark and the late, great Squingy of Bass Odyssey.

Squingy (RIP) and DJ Mark with the UK Cup Clash trophy

Tied with 7 World Clash victories (along with “The Far East Rulers” Mighty Crown), Bass Odyssey and Black Kat are set to come head to head on two World Clash stages in April 2012. There is intense energy among fans centered on these highly anticipated face offs. Whenever, these two giants are billed for the same event, only “helter skelter” can erupt. While Bass Odyssey boldly attacks contenders with a fusion of well structured speeches and sharp music selections, Black Kat’s team often dons smiles and sneakily strikes opponents with witty warnings and well-known dub plate anthems.

No matter one’s position on who will take home the coveted World Clash R.E.S.E.T. trophies, fans are certain that Bass Odyssey and Black Kat’s showdown will be forever written in the pages of Dancehall history. For R.E.S.E.T. New York, limited tickets are available online and in select retail outlets. R.E.S.E.T. Jamaica tickets will be available at the gate only.

Which sound system will bring home the World Clash title?

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