Emergenza kicked off 2006 in high style with another rawkus weekend at the BackBooth in Orlando. Leading the way Thursday night were the fine dressed men of Mysterioso. This group was above definition as they combined storytelling with great harmonies, trombone, keys, and pure personality. A well polished performance that begged to continue. Another band that took the less traditional route was Cure For Caska. A lighter sound brought to life with a cello and violin; thoughtful lyrics captivated the waiting crowd. Kastdown livened things up with hard rock and a throng of screaming girls in the front row. It’s good to know that grunge is still alive and kicking with Unfinishd. There singers gravely voice carried well without having to scream. Though they played early, they were able to get enough hands in the air to carry them to the Semi’s along with all those previously mentioned. Honorable mention goes out to Missing Picket who had a handful of radio ready songs. Though not moving on,look for their name to pop up on the airwaves soon. Friday brought out the Kids in all their hardcore glory. We got to hear variations of the genre through out the night. It was punctuated by the constant barrage of windmills and mule kicks from the crowd. This Last Dance bought the crowd to life with their dueling screaming/singing vocals that was perfect after the young rock of Valor. It was a very high energy for both bands and it got them enough votes to make it to the semi’s. He Bled First’s straight up hardcore that got punched in the face and scared some of the parents. Vinyl Orange was more laid back with a classic feel. They’re music like their name seemed more suited for 3 decades past. Also moving on to the semi’s were Cover the Sun. They played a great set to go along with their appearance on the mighty monster radio show the night before. It was chockfull of much appreciated hard rock Bringing a different flavor was Inhume. They had a semi gothic/80’s style that begged people to sway. They will have one more chance in the semi’s at the BackBooth in May. In spite of multiple missing ID’s and confusion Saturday came and went. Depleted stumbled through their set of sleeveless long haired hard rock while the fans of Losing It, did just that during the punk rock set. Even going so far as to pull the monitors off of the stage and start a fight with another band. The second time was the charm for Koiel, who participated last year, had better luck and advance to the next round. It felt like 2 shows in one as the early crowd disappeared and was replace with the easily excitable following of A Daylight Away and Beyond the Sun. Both had a great sound and I expect to see them both in the finals. Sunday closed it out with a light showing and a wide assortment of talent and music. This Solemn Vow got it started with its finger flicking guitar solo’s, which was followed by Urbe Prima, and their plodding alt rock. We then were taken Old School by Remynder, who meshed theatrical vocals, like metal of old with today’s rock. This was then followed by Swansinger. The had an Indie/ original sound that can make you dance or freak out in a corner. Finishing up this round was Breach of Peace. Though young, they still made the most of their Senhiesser wireless systems while rocking out to Johnny Be Good. All and all the talent only continues to improve as we hit the half-way point for the prelims in Orlando. Join us back once again as things heat up down in Florida once more with Emergenza 2006.