Next wave of musicians prepare for battle

The next generation of musical talent will do “battle” in the Lerwick Legion at the end of this month.

The Shetland Young Promoters Group (SYPG) is set to hold its annual Battle of the Bands on Friday 27th March.

The group is run by a committee of 14 to 25-year-olds and their aim is to host and promote safe, alcohol-free gigs for young people.

SYPG gives young people the chance to experience live music and also presents the opportunity for young bands to gain recognition and confidence in their performing abilities.

The Battle of the Bands has become an annual showcase for Shetland’s next wave of talented musicians. This year there are some returning bands while there are also many fresh faces.

Callum Anderson of SYPG said: “One of the bands performing is Toxic Flames, who, if you listen to SIBC, need no introduction. With some strong catchy rock songs getting radio play, they are clearly a band that will set their goals high on the night.

“Another is the new Black Trow, a heavy blues band with some incredibly talented players. These guys are sure to be a favourite on the night, so come see them while it’s cheap.

“Misbehavin’ are new to Battle of the Bands but are no means new to the music scene. Definite contenders for the prize, they consist of a strong, talented line-up playing a mix of rock and blues.

“Blind Summit will also be making a return after playing at the event for the past two years, and have a strong line-up. They play a solid set of catchy rock classics and are definitely the ones to watch out for. Don’t miss them.

“Next up is Draugon, another new band with a set of fast-paced, melodic, acoustic covers, they aim to raise the bar for musicianship this year.

“Yet another fresh face is The FB, a funk band. They are full of energy and will be definite contenders for the prize, they are keeping a close eye on.

“There’s a panel of judges who will watch these bands and decide who ultimately gets the prize – a day recording in Mareel, kindly donated by Shetland Arts.

“For a band on the rise this is a great opportunity to get a track down professionally, and using Mareel’s resources, producing some industry standard tracks.”

Meanwhile last year’s winners Autopilot, are set to return and headline the event, non-competitively.

Autopilot, like many of the other bands who won Battle of the Bands (such as Hoygir, Organised Chaos, Automatic Chicken, Maskarade) have gone on to be big names in the local community.

Anderson added: “Autopilot will no doubt deliver a great live, in-your-face performance.

“Finally, talent scouts from the Heavy Metal Buffet will be keeping a close eye out for any bands that they feel are gig worthy.”
The event begins at 7.30pm.