When Emergenza’s semi-final round kicks off at Club Soda, it’s always a guarantee of two things – a few tense moments for the bands as they rock their hearts and hope to make it to the finals and a smashing good time for the audience as they watch them try.

This year the semi finals start the day after Valentine’s day – just as everyone’s hearts are still full of love and emotion. What better way to welcome the first eight semi-finalists to the stage?

The honour of opening the night belongs to The Envoys – five young musicians whose indie/rock style is polished and entertaining.

With some music of a different flavour altogether, Safe in Sound is up next. Their unique blend of funk, rock, and jazz is as diverse as the band members themselves.

Korum will follow with their interpretation of a similar genre with one main difference – their lyrics are in French and their music carries a somewhat more powerful beat.

An energetic instrumental set is up next as Mass Klout takes the stage with their energetic and inspirational pieces.

At the halfway point of the night, Fugere.Poirier a duo urban/folksy music wows the crowd as much as the variety of instruments which they include in each set.

The night’s second francophone ensemble, Origine is up next and they stay true to their genre as well as culture not just with the language of the lyrics but also with their style of music.

The Effigy Sound is up next bringing to the stage something quite different – a mix of R&B, pop and some electronic sounds that must be heard to be appreciated.

Capping off the night we have Envez, a band whose relatively new status as an ensemble would be hard to see given their well-assembled songs and performance.

As you see – we are in for a treat on this sure to be freezing cold Friday night in Montreal. If you don’t already have your tickets to the show, don’t waste any more time! Don’t miss your opportunity to be in the hottest place in downtown Montreal!