The BASS Festival, British Arts and Street Sounds,  is the UK’s only month-long celebration of Black music and arts. For their seventh year, BASS is launching their programme of music, arts and cultural events at the Custard Factory along with holding events across Birmingham to explore the unstoppable influence of Jamaica on British creative talent.

BASS has always been about the impact of Black culture within the UK and nowhere is this more apparent today than in the powerful contribution of our Jamaican community.

Ammo Talwar, founder of BASS festival and owner of Punch Records, says, “It may be the impact of Dub in our club scene or the way that Dancehall is transforming Street fashion, but Brand Jamaica is touching everyone’s life in Britain today.”

The BASS 2012 Festival delves into all aspects of Jamaican culture in the UK. The launch night features the opening of an exhibition by Birmingham painter Mark Anthony Carrol at the Custard Factory and premieres new Jazz work from Black British musician, David Grey.

Musical highlights include Junior Murvin, whose massive hit “Police and Thieves” became the sound track for the Dread beat and Punk era. London’s hottest soundsystem, The Heatwave present “Showtime” featuring Durty Goodz, Rodney P, Lady Leshur and much more, The legends of the Dub scene Channel One play an intimate set for the lovers of Roots Reggae, whilst members of Musical youth and Steel Pulse debate reggae and its impact on the city of Birmingham from the 70’s onwards.

BASS is very proud to honour Birmingham stalwart photographer Vanley Burke with a special commission, “Respek Vanley”. Working with the local community and schools, musician Bobbie Gardner will produce new work which reflects his images.

Other festival highlights include “Same Difference” – a new spoken word theatre piece, and a celebration of Rasta culture with a Marcus Garvey Day of youth workshops and good vibes – Because Jamaican culture stays close to its roots there will be a whole series of pop-up exhibitions, concerts and dance performances around the city – watch this space!

For more information on BASS Festival and line-up announcements visit www.punch-records.co.uk

BASS Festival | June 19th – July 13th 2012 | Launch night June 19th @ Custard Factory

Other venues include: The Jamhouse, Mac, Library Theatre, PST, The Edge, The Drum, The Rainbow & Hare and Hounds.