POPULAR Magnum All-Star Sound Clash returns after a near three-year break and organisers are promising lots of excitement and high-energy when the competition returns on Friday, March 3.

The contest, which is aimed at highlighting sound systems in the dancehall culture, will see eight sounds competing for a cash prize of $1 million. The launch was held at the All-Star headquarters, 153 Olympic Way in Kingston.

Danielia McLean is project manager for title sponsor Magnum.

“Sound clash is synonymous with Magnum and both represent authentic dancehall. You can expect lots of excitement over the next 11 weeks,” said McLean.

“Clash, reggae, dancehall are the core of our culture and I think this is an amazing partnership,” she continued.

Chieftin Campbell, co-organiser of Magnum All Star Sound Clash, said the event has grown since its inception in 2014.

“The competition has grown and attracted people from all over the world. Even now, persons are asking us to stream it live. We have had sound systems like King Addies, King Jammys, Bass Odyssey, Tony Matterhorn, Fire Links, Ricky Trooper, Pink Panther, and a whole lot more. Kingston 11 is dancehall mecca and we are continuing that legacy,” said Campbell.

The Magnum All-Star Sound Clash will be weekly at the All-Star headquarters. The eight sounds that will be competing are Ruff Cut, Twin Star, Five Star, Rode Code, Black Magic, Echo One, Unruly Stumpy, and Rispec Jam.

Beginning Friday, March 3, every week, two sound systems will compete in five rounds to showcase their talent for the judges and a live audience. In week five, the knockout round will commence, where contestants will then go head-to-head for the duration of the competition; and in week 11, a winner will be announced at the finals.

Kensi, a selector for Japan-based sound Rispec Jam, is looking forward to the competition.

“We hope to win, that is it,” he disclosed in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

Bad Bwoy Kirk of Black Magic Sound is also hoping to take home the title.

“We expect to win. We ah go kill every sound, a just dat,” he said. His musical partner, Slaughter, has had experience in the competition, having entered previously with sound system Choice Movements and making it to the semi-finals.