Nu Civilisation Orchestra joined Rampage Sound System at the Barbican on Friday 20th June to reimagine Carnival Classics, celebrating three decades of the iconic tracks that have shaped the sound of Notting Hill Carnival.

Featuring a 30-piece orchestra and many of the original artists, this concert brought to life the iconic sounds of Soca, Dancehall, Jungle, UK Garage and more with electrifying performances of the songs that have shaped Europe’s largest street festival. From the traditional rhythms of the Caribbean to the ground-breaking genres shaping British Black Music, this was a journey through sound like no other.

Rampage’s legacy spans over 30 years at Carnival, and their collaboration with Nu Civilisation Orchestra told the powerful story of a musical evolution. Inspired by the Windrush generation’s Caribbean roots, this incredible celebration featured performances from Carroll Thompson, Damage, Donaeo, General Levy, Janet Kay, Kele Le Roc, Kyla, Louchie Lou and Michie One, Malika, Omar, Stush, Stylo G, Terri Walker and more.

Performing to a packed Barbican Hall, the crowd joined the party the moment the first tune dropped and stayed on their feet dancing and bringing the good-times carnival vibes through the night.

Photographs courtesy of Frozen Earth Photography.