Review by James Lindorf
Director Sean Frank brings you an eye-opening look into the world of “musicologists”, in both New York City, and the Dominican Republic. “Musicologists” radically customize everyday vehicles, packing them with speakers in the pursuit of music purity at maximum volume. Más Fuerte is a short documentary, at just under 15 minutes, and is currently available on YouTube and at https://masfuertefilm.com/ in collaboration with Presidente Beer.
Though short, Frank manages to stuff his film with jaw-dropping moments and information. These street level “musicologists” are able to keep their Dominican culture alive in New York, despite the city’s often restrictive environment. Frank contrasts the wide-open get-togethers in Santo Domingo, that look like a scene from any Fast and The Furious film, and short lived secret meetings throughout the boroughs of New York, where they can share their passion in 1-2-hour bursts.
This movie was a blast! It is full of style and substance, and left me wanting to know more: How are the cars modified, how did this culture become so important, and how do they balance the quality of their sound with the pure power of the bass? With a runtime of 15 minutes, and the wonderful fact that it’s free, there is no reason to put off checking out this film the next time you’re stuck in traffic, early for a meeting or on your lunch break. And remember, the next time you hear a car with the volume turned all the way up, “Es ritmo, no ruido. It’s rhythm, not noise.”
Watch for yourself:
