Battle Of The Bands Starts This Sunday

THE Hype Entertainment Battle of the Bands 2008 is set to kick off with the first of three heats on Sunday at 4pm in Kilkenny’s Zoo Club, 40 Parliament Street. Its shaping up to be a huge competition with over 10 local bands going head to head to win an array of great prizes.

According to organisers, the contest will see many new local bands make their debut alongside groups that have built up credible reputations and large local followings since last years contest. New bands like Attonement, South and Jaded Aces will battle it out against established acts like Desecrate, Decadation and Teratoria.

BOTB fans can look forward to a special BOTB showcase gig featuring last years winners Atrax Mantis on September 14. This gig will give the BOTB finalists a chance to rehearse a new set list to impress the judges at the final on September 21.

Fans can also look forward to a special performance from the legendary Mike Got Spiked while the judges decide the winning bands at the final. MGS will fly home to Ireland from their American Tour to play the slot.

Prizes so far this year include a demo recording package, and EP recording package, a PR, web and photography package and an impressive backline featuring top of the range amplifiers and drum kits for the bands to perform on. Sponsors for the event include Essaness Music, Brodericks Music Warehouse, The Mill Studios, KilkennyMusic.com, Ross Costigan Photography and Zoo Club.

“It’s going to be another great contest this year and Im delighted to see that even after eight years of running this contest, bands and music lovers still regard it as a highlight on Kilkenny’s music calendar,” said organiser Andrew McGuinness.

“We couldn’t do it without the generous and continued support from our sponsors. The same sponsors have supported the event for many years. Almost everybody involved in the local music scene contributes to this event in some way and that is very much appreciated,” he said.

The first heat kicks off this coming Sunday at 4pm with Modern Rick, Desecrate and Joe Had A Stroke. The order of performances will be drawn from a hat on the day to keep it fair. Organisers are advising fans to arrive on time as places are limited. Entry is €6 and like previous years, all ages are welcome.