Kicking of this year’s Final in Vancouver, B.C., Over the Coals gave an excellent performance, drawing in and winning over a seemingly indifferent crowd with widely varying vocal textures and excellent use of dynamics. Use of negative space in music is something that most metal bands overlook, but it is what really sets this band apart from the pack. Zelas Hype followed with a blues driven rock sound, and somewhat cocky stage presence a la early Stones. These guys are a great rock band with an element of twanginess that I was surprised and pleased to find in a young and promising band. Mouthful of Daisy’s performance, like their name, was both beautiful and unique. This female fronted rock band consists of a solid and driving rhythm section and subtle guitar work as a backdrop for their lead singer’s melodic lines to weave in and out of. I am sure we will be hearing a lot from this band in the future. Painted Cities’ followed with an equally impressive display of subtlety and nuance in their music. Leaning more to the trippy side of the musical spectrum, with haunting vocals blending into delay-laden guitar riffs, this young band left a big impression with both the audience and the other musicians in the room. Proving the be the overwhelming crowd pleasers of the evening, indie band Maclean took to the stage and made it their own with an upbeat gravitating performance. A brilliant rhythm section and slick yet subtle guitar work earned this band a place among the national finalists. Though not a punk band, a ska band, or even what you would typically call a rock band, Badd Habits put an energetic and upbeat performance that draws elements from all of these genres and more into an eclectic mix, and a very memorable show. The Chase followed with a well written, and equally well executed performance. Leaning to the edgier side of rock, but with an upbeat and carefree air about them, this band’s combination of combination of songwriting ability matched with their natural stage presence makes them a band to watch out for. Hailing from Whistler, 7 piece world-reggae band Kostaman brought the audience into their own realm with a poppy and uplifting, yet organic and homegrown sound that had the audience and club staff alike bobbing their heads. Closing out the evening were winners of the Emergenza 2006 international finals The Sessions. Having previously heard much about, but little from The Sessions, I was blown away by this band’s performance. Possessing a cohesive and impressive stage presence, and pairing catchy and singable lyrics with an edgy, yet dance friendly rock sound, it is easy to imagine this band wowing a screaming horde of 20,000 fans in Germany. Great work guys, and a great performance by all of the bands tonight. I hope to hear from many of you soon.