From a moshpit in Powis Square to the electric slide over at People’s Sound, here are highlights of the 30-plus sound systems at this year’s event
Calypso, soca, steelpan and the masquerade (mas) bands have been key elements of the Notting Hill carnival since it began in 1966. It wasn’t until 1973 that carnival architect Leslie Palmer officially invited stationary sound systems – first brought to the
UK from Jamaica – to join the celebrations. and the event took on its noted street-party feel. Palmer wanted to attract a larger, younger crowd, because back then funding was directly linked to turnout. Still, Palmer probably wouldn’t have imagined that, almost 50 years later, carnival would feature more than 30 sound systems.
Some have cult status, while others bring out new
British talent to perform on the mic. Exiting Westbourne Park station, revellers are welcomed to Leamington Road Villas by the bass line of the Sir Lloyd sound system, which has been a carnival fixture for 40 years. Dedicated to classic carnival sounds that reach back four decades, Sir Lloyd attracts an eclectic mix of people. On a road nearby, Benji B’s colourful Deviation attracts a slightly younger crowd.