Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
The Budweiser Battle of the Bands - as we knew it - is no more. But there’s no need to spend sleepless nights crying in your pillow because in its place is a new, improved version of the popular contest.
The new concept will see the competition span six months with a different local band supporting an international main act every month from April onwards.
Over a six-month period ‘Bud Music… Live’ and Likwid will host a live music night once a month, which will incorporate some of the traditional BOTB competition elements.
Bands & musicians in Bahrain who are not currently employed by a hotel or bar will be invited to submit their demo CD to the ‘Budweiser panel of judges (including yours truly).
The six best bands chosen will in turn be invited to battle it out in a live play-off final.
Each band will be allocated one of the monthly ‘Bud Music…Live’ gig dates and will play a 45-minute set as a support act for the evening’s internationally-acclaimed headliners.
The bands will be judged on their versatility, musical ability, originality and their live performance.
The winning band will be awarded with studio recording time and a chance to play at an end of year ‘Bud Music… Live’ festival in November.
Contest spokesman Richard Thayne, of Bahrain Maritime & Mercantile International, said: “We view the ‘Bud Music…Live’ concept as a natural progression.
“It takes the elements of BOTB that everybody enjoyed, namely live music in a fantastic atmosphere but in addition it provides music lovers with the opportunity to witness some accomplished international bands here in Bahrain on a regular basis.”
Organiser Victoria Bushnell added: “Over the last 15 years it has grown and grown and really developed into one of the main events on the Bahrain calendar.
“We are keen to introduce a new fresh and contemporary style and offer a regular innovative live music experience.
“In recent years we have heard of more and more residents in Bahrain with great musical talent and we want to help their development and raise their profile by providing them with an opportunity to play live in a superb venue in front of a great crowd.”
The first session of ‘Bud Music… Live’ kicks off at Likwid in the City Center Hotel on April 20th with Juliana Down, pictured above, as the first headline act.
For further information contact Victoria Bushnell on 17 57 90 43 or email vbushnell@bmmi.com.bh or visit Budweisermusiclive@BMMI.com.bh
Marie-Claire
