National Semi-Final at The Independent Sunderland

Last night saw the National Semi final of Stage Pass Promotions national Battle of the Bands 07/08. The Line up saw 4 bands from the Yorkshire region advance to the Final in Manchester.
The competition was intended as a five band lineup but the only band in the competition from Sunderland split between New Year and last night leaving all of the bands who played to advance automatically and playing for their slot in the final.
‘Captain Backfire’ were in attendance and although they did enough to finish third, ahead of a young rock band whose name escapes me, they did not play at their best relaxing too much when the pressure was lifted. They did however debut a new song ‘Adaptations’ a slower song then the rest of their set, watching them play, having seen them plenty of times before, it was obvious they were not as confident with the song but it sounds promising and I’m sure will grow over time as they get used to playing it.
Second were heavy rockers ‘I Panri’ (I think that’s how it spelt) who were really tight, competent and seemed to have massive support.
The winners were the band from the Leeds final a funk band called ‘16 Days’. They were outstanding and their slot was so tight and well rehearsed. A proper show. The funky bass groves kept the audiences head bobbing, and the lead singer’s awesome voice blew everyone else off the stage. Easily the best band on the night it doesn’t look too good for the Backfire boys in the final with them around.Look out for the final which promises a non-BotBs group opening the show, 8 bands competing for the big prize, and a well known signed band closing the show. All for £10!