RECAP: THE DMV ROAD TO I-OCTANE CUP CLASH – A NIGHT OF SOUND WAR SUPREMACY!
Bowie, MD was the epicenter of sound clash culture this past Saturday, March 29, 2025, as Revo Entertainment & Tek 9 Promotions delivered a thrilling, high-energy battle that had patrons on edge from start to finish. The venue was jam-packed with die-hard clash fans, all eager to witness history unfold in the DMV Road to I-Octane Cup Clash.
The air was electric, and the anticipation was high as five formidable sounds—Polo International, Jah Sound, Trinity Sound International, Gangsta Shack International, and Lion Vibes International—stepped into the war zone. Each sound came fully armed with exclusive custom dubplates, razor-sharp selections, and a hunger to conquer. But when the dust settled, one sound stood victorious—Trinity Sound International. The Guyanese-born, DMV-built clash warriors defied expectations, proving once and for all that their dub box is deep, their skillset is unmatched, and their presence in the arena is downright fearless. Now, they move on to New York to represent the DMV at the prestigious I-Octane Cup Clash.
BREAKDOWN OF THE CLASH
Round 1 – The Warm-Up
The first round served as an introduction to the war ahead. Each sound got a chance to flex their musical arsenal, setting the tone for what was to come. With no eliminations in this round, it was all about feeling out the crowd and establishing dominance. The energy was palpable, and the audience was locked in, ready for war.Round 2 – The First Elimination
The second round turned up the heat, and each sound came in swinging.
Lion Vibes International played a wicked custom dub by Lady Flame, which got a strong response from the crowd. However, despite this moment, their overall performance didn’t resonate as powerfully, and they found themselves struggling to maintain momentum.
Polo International, the youngest competitor, refused to be overlooked. He commanded attention, rinsing out some heavy Masicka dubs, receiving thunderous forwards in return.
Jah Sound surprised many by holding their own, unleashing a lethal combination of Bounty Killer and Beenie Man dubs, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Trinity Sound International came in like seasoned war generals, dropping custom Bounty Killer and Buju Banton dubplates that had the venue erupting in massive forwards. Doubters were quickly silenced.
Gangsta Shack International also brought the heat, ensuring the competition knew they weren’t here to play, securing strong forwards from the audience.
Elimination: After the hand vote, Lion Vibes International was counted out.
Round 3 – The Battle Intensifies
The clash warriors continued their relentless pursuit of victory.
Polo International started strong but faced a momentary dip with some of his selections, receiving boos. However, he quickly recovered, proving he belonged in the battlefield.
Jah Sound returned with undeniable energy, dropping more Bounty and Buju dubs, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to keep them in the competition.
Trinity Sound International came in with relentless power, maintaining their dominance and carrying the momentum from earlier rounds. Their dubplates hit hard, leaving the crowd in awe and securing them multiple forwards. Trinity's fearless execution left no doubt that they were here to win, continuing to set the stage for a dramatic final showdown.
Gangsta Shack International also delivered a solid performance in Round 3. His dubplates were heavy, his selections on point, and the crowd responded positively, sending strong forwards his way. Gangsta Shack showed no signs of slowing down, continuing to fight for his place in the competition as the battle raged on.
Elimination: After another intense hand vote, Jah Sound was sent home.
Round 4 – The Warzone Narrows
With three sounds left, the competition reached new heights.
Trinity Sound International came in fully charged, delivering a monumental performance that shook the venue. The forwards were relentless, leaving many stunned by the precision and firepower they brought to the round.
Gangsta Shack International received some decent forwards, but his round lacked the explosive impact needed to secure a top spot. The boos at the end sealed his fate.
Polo International had moments of brilliance, receiving massive forwards early on. A few selections caused a dip, but he fought back, ensuring he wasn’t underestimated.
Elimination: The votes were cast, and Gangsta Shack International was eliminated.
Final Round – The Tune Fi Tune Showdown
With only two sounds remaining—Trinity Sound International and Polo International—the stage was set for a legendary showdown.In a best of five tune fi tune battle, the crowd was hanging on to every intro, every riddim, every lyrical attack. The tension was intense, but in the end, Trinity Sound International proved to be superior, delivering the most lethal selections and securing a decisive victory.
THE CHAMPIONS – TRINITY SOUND INTERNATIONAL!
Against all odds, Trinity Sound International proved why they are elite war generals. Born in Guyana, built in the DMV, and forged in the fire of sound clash warfare, they demonstrated fearlessness, strategy, and an undeniable mastery of the art. Many underestimated them, but they didn’t realize that Trinity’s dub box was deep, their executions were precise, and their hunger for victory was insatiable.
Now, they move on to New York to represent DMV at the I-Octane Cup Clash, carrying the DMV’s legacy on their shoulders.
BIG UP TO ALL PARTICIPANTS & PROMOTERS!
This clash was nothing short of spectacular. Every sound brought their A-game, making it a night to remember. Big up to Revo Entertainment & Tek 9 Promotions for keeping the clash culture alive in the DMV. The patrons were fully engaged, the vibes were intense, and the competition was fierce—everything a real sound clash should be.
For those who missed out or want to relive the experience, Episode 3 of the Sound Clash Countdown series by Carib Life Media takes you inside the minds of top selectors as they prepare for war. Don’t miss this exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Watch the full episode now on Carib Life Media’s YouTube channel.
Sound Clash Culture Lives On!
WATCH HIGHLIGHTS HERE:
DMV Road to I-Octane Cup Clash: Trinity Sound Victorious
