Local Music Scene

So it's come to the end of another year for the Original Bands Showcase, after starting back in May. Thirty five bands represented some of Leicester's finest live music talent. They battled it out, heat by heat, and only four reached 'The Final'.

The Final Heat

The stage is set and taking the opening slot to a now packed Shed were The Chairmen. Tight catchy tunes churned out one after another to the appreciative crowd who soaked it up.

That stripped back, almost "Stax-like" feel to their songs coupled with their onstage chemistry made this a commendable opener from the cool dudes. They worked the room extremely well and threw down the gauntlet to the remaining three.

Second up came Kalena. No hesitation from their front man on the night. He was straight in there with his 100 mph performance that makes him stand apart from the norm.

Their trademark pacy set, well honed from an experienced outfit was laced with the ringing chants of the Kaaaa-leeee-naaaa faithful.

The Picks

Third on were The Picks who poses's loudest front-man of the whole comp... ever! This band just have a charisma that needs to be bottled! There is something that's so enjoyable about watching these lads onstage.

They blasted out another fine set illustrating why they were in the final and adding to the now obvious headache decision the judges will have to make.

Final act of the competition were The Jack of Hearts Band. Cool, smooth, talented, with a catalogue of songs that trip lazily off the front-man's tongue.

The infectious hook lines underpinned with the intervening bass and lets not forget the splattering of Sax, TJOHB band ooze dance ability.

Judgement Night

Left to entertain the crowds whilst the judges deliberated were OBS 2006 winners Proud To Have Met You.

After much consideration and discussion the judges reached agreement and the winners of The Original Bands Showcase 2007 were... The Chairmen.

They will now play at Summer Sundae Weekender on Friday 10 August between 17:00 and 18:00 on the Musicians Stage.

The Chairmen also receive a days recording session at a studio and a professionally designed and hosted website as well as £400 cash.

• Darren Nockles - The Musician
• Gaz Birtles - Emnet
• Richard Haswell - DMH/SSW
• Rebecca Bryers - BBC
• Tobi Gibson - GigsGuide.Co.Uk
• Sean Tizzard - SSW (Rising Stage)
• Val McCoy - vjtpromotions