By Brittany Weaver

The excitement was tangible in the cafeteria last Friday night as students trickled in, but doubt still hung in the air. Some gathered in clusters around the stage as hushed whispers traveled throughout on the possible downfall of this year’s Battle of the Bands. Others traveled out into the court yard for food and face painting.

The first band, Freezer Burn, came to stage and seemed unable to pump up the still-standing crowd. In events like this, performance order can be everything, as newcomers were still entering and diverted attention away from the band and onto them.

As the next band Dead before Sunrise came on stage and performed, excitement dwindled as people recognized how unprepared they were.  Their singer eventually grabbed the printed lyrics to the song he was singing off of an amp and read from it.

The next performance, Rabbit in Owl brought a cool jazz vibe. The highlight of their set was when the bass guitarist exchanged his instrument for a saxophone and caught the audience’s interest.

Finally the last band arrived on stage, the newly formed Track 12. Fans didn’t know what to expect until the lead singer opened her mouth and started with an amazing voice. Having already played at the White Rabbit, band members already knew what it felt like to play for a crowd. Continuing with their set the band had people on their feet screaming as they played.

In one song, the guitarist played a solo showcasing the amazing talent he had. His playing was phenomenal, and his performance left fellow aspiring guitarists in awe.  A few people ran to the stage and got on their knees in front of him and bowed as he played.

With each song the crowed cheered louder and louder, and by the end of Track 12’s last song the drummer threw his sticks into the crowed and the guitarist flung his pick as well. People eagerly grabbed at each wanting a piece of memorabilia of that night.

Things started to settle down as student council rounded all of the bands up for judging. Student council members announced the name of each band and judged by how loud the crowd cheered. Track 12 won with the loudest applause and received a gift basket.

All bands seemed as if they have fun, and when it comes down to it, that’s all that truly matters.  Talent wafted throughout the cafeteria, and in the end the last band standing was the one who already had previous success under their belts. People will surely look forward to next year to return and see what next year’s bands have to stand up against because this year the bar was set high.