It’s been an eventful year for the members of Umbrella Surprise Attack.
The hardcore-metal band scored first place at the Southwest Coast regional Battle of Bands competition at Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre last January.
“Winning Battle of the Bands was a great achievement for us,” said band member Josh Hepditch. “We worked really hard writing our own material and to see people actually enjoying our songs felt great.”
Fellow band mate Robinson McFatridge said the competition had added benefits.
“It also got our name out there and in turn opened a few doors getting us a few shows around the island.”
The band has performed at the provincial Battle of the Bands competition in Grand Falls, the Blueberry Festival in St. George’s, and club dates in Corner Brook and St. John’s.
The band continues to work on new material and currently has more than 500 followers on their Facebook fan page.
Could be called off
Local groups hoping to have similar successes as Umbrella Surprise Attack could have more of a struggle, as the 2011 Battle of the Bands competition might be cancelled.
Wanda Cook, Stephenville Arts and Culture manager and event organizer, said only two bands have signed up for this year’s contest.
“There is so much talent in the area that it would be a shame for this not to go on.” - Josh Hepditch
“Last year we had eight bands competing – and we did it before with four bands,” said Ms. Cook. “But we really need at least five bands to make it a successful event.”
The original deadline to sign up for the competition was Jan. 14, but that’s been extended to Jan. 19.
“There are monetary prizes for first, second and third place,” added Ms. Cook. “And all the judging is done on a point system, with totals added up from each judge, so it’s a really fair process.”
The members of Umbrella Surprise Attack encourage others to participate in the local Battle of the Bands competition.
“To any young new bands in the area, I would suggest signing up, it is a great experience and a great way to have fun, get your name out and meet new people,” said Mr. McFatridge.
“The feeling for playing to a large crowd is awesome,” added Mr. Hepditch. “There is so much talent in the area that it would be a shame for this not to go on.”
For more information or to register, call the Arts and Culture Centre at 643-4553.
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