Watch Subsource: A Dubumentary

Subsource: A Dubumentary is a 2011 documentary directed by Damian Christie that explores the underground subculture of UK dub music. The film features interviews with various artists, producers, and DJs within the scene, as well as plenty of live footage from events and sound system sessions. The movie begins by establishing what dub music is, tracing its roots back to Jamaica in the 1960s and 70s. From there, it moves on to focus primarily on the UK scene, particularly in London and Bristol. One of the key themes of the film is the importance of sound systems in dub culture. These elaborate setups, often comprised of multiple speakers and amplifiers, are what allow dub music to be felt as well as heard, and many of the interviewees describe the incredible power and intensity of being in the presence of a truly great sound system.

Throughout the film, we hear from a range of artists who are involved in creating and performing dub music. Some of these people are established legends within the scene, while others are up-and-coming producers or DJs. All of them are passionate about their music, and their enthusiasm is infectious. We also hear from people who are involved in running sound systems, promoting events, or documenting the scene in some way - all of whom play an important role in keeping the dub movement alive.

One of the most interesting aspects of Subsource: A Dubumentary is the way it delves into the technical aspects of dub music. We learn about the origins of dub mixing techniques, with studio engineers like King Tubby and Lee 'Scratch' Perry experimenting with layering different tracks and using echo and reverb effects to create a new, dub-infused sound. From there, the film takes us through the various sub-genres of dub music - from roots and steppers to dubstep and beyond - and explains how each one builds on the innovations of the past.

The film also tackles some of the challenges that the dub scene faces. Many of the interviewees discuss the difficulties of making a living as a dub artist in a music industry that often prioritizes commercial success over true artistic expression. Others lament the gentrification of certain areas of London and Bristol, which threatens to displace the sound systems and other fixtures of the dub scene. However, even in the face of these challenges, the film ends on a note of optimism, with many of the interviewees expressing confidence in the enduring power of dub music.

Overall, Subsource: A Dubumentary is a fascinating and engaging look at a musical culture that often flies under the radar. Even if you're not a die-hard dub fan, the film is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and passion that goes into creating and maintaining a vibrant musical community.

Subsource: A Dubumentary is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0.