Journey through the roots and evolution of reggae in the city across the decades, with Black Obsidian Sound System and live DJ sets with Jumbi setting the tone.
Hosted by Dr Aleema Gray, founder of House of Dread, this event creates a space to reflect on Black music in London—particularly reggae—its cultural impact, and its role in shaping the city’s identity. Aleema will be joined by guest speakers for short conversations exploring the stories behind the music, the artists and the pivotal moments that has defined generations.
This event coincides with Dennis Morris: Music + Life (27 June – 28 September 2025) at The Photographers’ Gallery—a powerful exhibition showcasing the work of British-Jamaican photographer Dennis Morris, known for his iconic images of Bob Marley and other influential musicians, as well as scenes of London life.
Free and open to all.
Biographies
Black Obsidian Sound System
Black Obsidian Sound System was established in the summer of 2018 with the intention of bringing together a community of queer, trans and non-binary black and people of colour involved in art, sound and radical activism. Following in the legacies of sound system culture they wanted to learn, build and sustain a resource for our collective struggles.
The system, based in London, is available to use or rent by community groups and others with the purpose of amplifying and connecting them. Black Obsidian Sound System are Kiera Coward-Deyell, Phoebe Collings-James, Evan Ifekoya, Onyeka Igwe, Shenece Liburd, Marcus Macdonald, Nadine Peters, Shamica Ruddock.
House of Dread
HOUSE OF DREAD is an anti-disciplinary heritage studio. Guided by principles of co-production and community knowledge(s), they ask questions that disrupt what is already known, provoke creativity and inspire new ways of thinking.
Jumbi
A Hi-Fi Music Bar & Restaurant in the heart of Peckham celebrating the sounds & flavours of the African-Caribbean diaspora.
Supported by Westminster City Council as part of its Inside Out festival
