Solo artists Holly Arrowsmith and Max Gunn, along with duo Emily Burns and Hertzog Burger, will take on the Fletcherz and DubSide in the 2011 Ultimate Battle of the Musos in the Youth Booth on Friday.
Judge Reuben Pearce, co-director of It Might Get Loud, told the audience the judging panel had been impressed by the depth of talent and it was good to see so many original songs performed.
Bantering hosts Caleb Dawson-Swale (18) and Tom Rowan (18) entertained the crowd and guest performers Toni Joseph and Ned Webster sang and played guitar while the judges deliberated.
It was the turn of acoustic singer-songwriters and keyboard players for the second heat on Friday after bands competed in the first heat the previous week.
The final will the held on Friday, October 7, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost $5 from the Youth Booth, formerly known as X-it Youth Centre, in Stanley St.
Play it Strange chief executive, Split Enz co-founder and music industry veteran Mike Chunn will return for the second year as guest judge.
The overall winner, 2011 Ultimate Muso, will have the opportunity to record their original song with Studio 183 owner Dave Allison and recording artist Andrea Cruickshank-Pearson. The Ultimate Muso will also support an established act in Revolver.
The best band wins a warm-up slot on stage for New Year's Eve. The best acoustic soloist or duo wins $200 for musical equipment from It Might Get Loud Music Company.
