Thursday 23rd January The opening night consisted of five bands, eager to prove their worth on the local Southampton music scene. They had an unenviable task of winning over this capacity crowd, which happened to include most of the bands taking part from the following nights. These bands took full advantage of Emergenza’s hospitality, and made use of the free passes to attend each night, so they could check out the weekend’s competition. First band to take to the stage were Uncle Herb. A lot of talent for a band so young, they just need to work on their confidence onstage, but I’m sure in time this will come, and when it does this band will be something to be reckoned with. Facelift Wired were up next, heavy band. Unfortunately, their influences shine through too brightly for me. Barrington followed with their eclectic ensemble of musicianship and great vocal melodies. Up next, were the highlight of the evening for me and due to the amazing crowd response they received I’m sure for everyone else also. Toupe took to the stage, with their bizarre mix of a drummer and two bass players, one of which being the singer. This bands music HAS to be heard live and no other way. They went down a storm with the audience and picked up massive votes from everyone including the other bands taking part, which is always a good sign. I thoroughly enjoyed watching these guys. Finally, Without Reason had the task of ending the show and after Toupe’s set I was unsure if they could manage it, but in true professional style this band played a thought provoking set of great music with great hooks combined with a lot of power, nuff said. Friday 24th January Up first were Neversence. Lots of energy and enthusiasm but at the same time looked a little nervous, which I can’t blame them for really, since the venue was at capacity, before they even took to the stage, always daunting...! Capital Punishment followed, with their brand of cover songs. These boys are amazingly young and if they hone their talent now and put it to use writing their own material, I can’t see any reason for them not to be a success in the future. The audience showed their appreciation of these young lads, by scoring them some high votes. Not X Choice, travelled to Southampton from Basingstoke, and it seemed like they brought their entire family down for the night. I think if I asked for it, they could have produced their kitchen sink for me. Great band, with an abundance of talent, these guys are gonna make it big, with or without Emergenza. In complete contrast to Not X Choice the next band Lo*Chine took to the stage with their brand of funky rock. The inclusion of a saxa’ma’phone in the line up was refreshing to hear and added great dynamics to their performance and sound. As for the next band Carnation, they seemed to have a nightmare gig, first the guitarist string broke, then he went out of tune for the remainder of the set, very unfortunate for these guys, because they have a great selection of Brit rock tunes under their belt. Finally, Wale finished the evening off nicely with a set of pure British indie rock. Another great night, and fun had by all. Saturday 25th January Murmur opened tonight’s proceedings, once again to a packed Joiners Arms. Great to see bands getting to play to capacity crowds even if they are the opening band. The band played well, tight set, good performance. Persona with their very British style of nu-metal took to the stage, again, a young band with bags of talent. Also in given time, these boys are gonna be BIG. Lounge Act were to follow, they played a great set and I enjoyed these guys a lot, as did the audience who showed their appreciation of good music by voting them through to the next heats. Kidgloves with their UK pop rock sound had a hard act to follow, in Lounge Act. Their performance was tight but lacked originality for my liking, but saying that, the crowd seemed to enjoy them, so who am I t