Red Stripe, the iconic Jamaican beer brand, has always embraced creativity and innovation rooted in its DIY culture. As part of their “Make with a Red Stripe” series, they teamed up with Japanese sound artist Yuri Suzuki to create a one-of-a-kind sound sculpture. This unique installation, titled “Make Something from Nothing,” is constructed from thousands of recycled Red Stripe cans, paying homage to the deep influence of Jamaican music and sound system culture. The sculpture was unveiled at Village Underground in London on November 16th 2011, where guests enjoyed an immersive experience with Jamaican-inspired music, jerk chicken, and, of course, plenty of Red Stripe.

Yuri Suzuki, known for his experimental music machines, collaborated with designer Matthew Kneebone, singer/songwriter Gappy Ranks, and DJ Al Fingers to bring this project to life. The 2.5-meter-high structure captures the spirit of Jamaica’s legendary sound systems, which are famous for their bass-heavy beats and innovative engineering. Suzuki expressed admiration for Jamaican culture, noting how sound system pioneers have historically built their setups from scratch with limited resources. This project mirrors that ingenuity by transforming everyday beer cans into a fully functioning musical instrument.

The launch event featured electrifying performances from DJs like Ben UFO and Spencer, filling the venue with pulsating rhythms that highlighted the sculpture’s capability as a sound machine. The project showcases the intersection of art, music, and sustainability, celebrating Jamaica’s impact on global culture. Check out the video to see how this incredible sculpture was brought to life and experience the fusion of sound, art, and Red Stripe’s unmistakable Jamaican vibe.

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