There are plenty emerging music acts out there just waiting for their big break. Toronto venue the Hideout is hoping to help them out with "The Bout," its newly announced, 13-week long battle the bands.
Every Friday and Saturday from February 16 until the end April, acts will take to the Hideout stage for a 30-minute set. Attendees can then go online and vote for their favourite acts.
After all 100 groups have performed, the six acts with the best scores and live turnout will be named as finalists, and perform at the Hideout on May 4 and 5, this time in front a panel industry pressionals. The winner will take home a grand prize $6,500, plus a slot at a Canadian Music Week showcase in May and recording time at Trouble Town Records. Other finalists will receive cash prizes. The event is also being sponsored by Exclaim!
"This competition has been designed to give back to the artists," says Hideout co-owner Jimmy Good. "As owners a music venue in Toronto for the past 11 years, we have grown great respect, love and admiration for the many talented musicians who have graced our stage."
Each act is invited to a complimentary family-style dinner the night the showcase where they can mingle with other performers, and groups can earn up to $250 ticket sales.
"We hope this will create an atmosphere where artists can network and discuss their careers, achievements and challenges they face, not only with each other but with invited industry pressionals also," says Good.
Submissions are due by January 23.
For more information, head here, and keep your eye on Exclaim! for further details.