This past weekend was a time for celebration in the city of Memphis. Playoff Basketball, Spring Baseball and the beginning of a month long celebration of music. Emergenza Semifinals at the Young Avenue Deli fit right in. Four nights for the fans to decide who they want to represent their fine city in Germany in August. Though know for its blues, Thursday brought out some Memphis Metal with Paraphenalia and Image taking the top slots. Starroy was barely getting started when time expired leaving their fans still wanting to dance till the sun came. These boys didn''t take one break and put on a great performance. They will get another chance at the New Daisy on Beale in June. Friday night brought the rain and the Rock''n Roll. This Is Goodbye was the complete definition of a band. All players melded together and each song was a collogue of collaborated sound. Not to mention rows of southern beauties adorned with home made t''s. An over all appealing performance that I''m sure will only improve by the Finals. Opening the evening was Satchel Boogie who immediately had to hop a plane for New York City after the show. But first they won over the early crowd with some solid songwriting and a polished look and attitude. None were surprised as they advanced to the next round. Saturday''s special at the Deli was good Music. The place was packed for the majority of the night and everyone got a taste of what Emergenza is all about and yelled and screamed for each of the performers. But when the dust settled only three could advance, unless of course there was a tie! Tribe Of Eli and Down The Highway came in neck and neck with One Bullet Booth and Maux Faux only slightly ahead. With all the support it will be hard for Judges to pick just one at the Finals in June. After a long weekend of partying, it was a more somber setting as the Semi''s came to a close on Sunday. Not even the over-the-top move''s of Gabby Johnson''s Guitar player could get people to their feet but it was enough to get them yelling and screaming with their hands in the air following their set. Consummate professionals; look for them to wow the judges in the next round. Finally though were the young lads of Tesco, playing the closest thing to Memphis Blues that I heard all weekend. Even the kitchen staff came out into the crowd to check who was tearing up the stage at their fine establishment. June 11th all these acts will join together for one last show at the New Daisy crowning one the new “King” of Memphis. (photo by Thomas Clinten Hubbard, courtesy of ONEBULLETBOOTH @onebulletbooth.com)