In the heart of the English capital last Saturday, March 8th, an exceptional evening took place—Emergenza Festival style! In one evening six bands contended for the title of best up and coming British band to represent the UK at the world finals of Emergenza at the Taubertal Open Air Festival in Germany!

The club hosting our bands is one of the top venues in London. We’re talking about The Garage—established in 1993 it quickly became a Mecca’s for indie performers. Not just a cult location in terms of up and coming bands, but also a major venue with headlining performers such as Arctic Monkeys, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Damien Rice, The Darkness, KT Tunstall, Oasis, and My Chemical Romance.

Along with these famous names in music are our very own bands destined to become great in their own time.

David Pear conquered the audience with his intense and determined rock and roll. Nice to look at as they are to listen to, their victory was well-deserved. In second place was all-girl group Ask Martin—great songs, truly British style and captivating on stage presence, particularly the lead-singer.

Tied for third place are Kassman and the Universal band and Habana. Both, top notch, but it’s the first band out of the two that really blew us way. Maybe the judges could have given them a few more points. We really hope to see them again! And then, of course, there was the totally original Habana. Three piece, with just two guitars and drums on stage. The lack of bass definitely doesn’t take away from this band, who got a really high vote nonetheless.

The last two spots go to the equally-talented-as-they-are-young Surrender The Thought and Jayah, the only rapper in the running. Too bad they came in last place, but the competition for the first ever One-Off Emergenza Concert in London was very stiff! Better luck to all the musicians who take part next time!

If you want to keep up with David Pear and his adventures abroad, his first show will be at Taubertal Open Air Festival, August 8th-10th in Germany!