Atlanta hosted its final set of Elimination rounds for the 2007 season at Vinyl this past weekend. We couldn’t have asked for a better line-up this past weekend. From funk to punk and rock of all kinds this weekend wrapped up yet another successful eliminatory season in the A. Vinyl has hosted the Emergenza events for the past 4 years and continues to prove to be one of the most sought after venues for local and national bands alike. Stiilpoint kicked off the weekend’s events with an all-out hard-rock set that set the standards high for the weekend. They had strong vocalizations, rippin’ guitar riffs and an excellent rhythm section. Swank Motel followed with an all-original indie-rock set. They had very well composed songs, complete with meticulously placed bridges and choruses, exceptional vocals and a vibe that had the place in awe. Check them out at the semi finals at The Loft in may. Soul Sister kicked us into a classic-rock mood as they stormed through their set. Donned in pink bellbottoms the lead guitarist belted out classic lyrics and had the audience clapping and singing along. With tight rhythms and strong guitar work these guys soared on to the semi-finals. Carrilla Zurda raged through their original Spanish-rock set. They covered a Beastie Boys song and continued in that vein for the duration of their set. With a banging stage presence and precise lead vocals these guys also slid into the semi-final round. Wrist Bandits never cease to entertain with their punk-rock that has a catchy yet unique feel to it. When the pleasantly plump drummer took off his shirt these guys captured the attention and hearts of the audience. They sang songs like “I love that Guy”, an attack on George W. Bush supporters, “Old Guys are born with Earmuffs” and “Stupid Couch”. Most any young punk-rock kid would have been ecstatic over this innovative and talented group. Levity brought back the classic-rock vibe as they played a set of both cover songs and originals. They had the audience wailing in unison and kept the momentum alive with strong lead vocals, a great stage presence and professional compositions. Sonen played their debut show this evening and what a show it was! Their indie-rock style was enhanced by both a xylophone and cello. They had great guitar solos, drum beats, and bass licks. With a good mix of testosterone and estrogen this male/female group had the audience dancing like there was no tomorrow. Bordumb closed out Thursday night’s show with a great rock set. They had an excellent ability to interact with the audience, great compositions and a very high level of energy. They were the perfect band to close out a superb night of great music. Friday night was one of the most spectacular Emergenza nights in Atlanta I have ever seen! Almost Heroes never cease to amaze with their rock compositions that gradually build into a full on explosion of rhythm and grandeur. Nick Edelstein added some alternative blues to the mix as he weaved melodious solos between lyrics that were relatable and well composed. Chilton & TexBukSex tore the roof off the sucka when they ripped through funk songs that had the audience shaking like crazy! With a presence as entertaining as theirs and equally impressive funk rifts these guys sure knew how to throw a party! Obviously schooled in the art of jazz, rock, funk and fusion the Bill Hart Project set out to impress and accomplished so much more than that. With a pure instrumental set the musicians were technically flawless as they spoke to music lovers through composition, dynamics, harmony and melody. The Inward Stare had great alternative rock songs that were stimulating and catchy. They dialed into powerful rhythms and guitar work along with quality lyrics. Innerview then took over with a rock set that was a cyclone of rhythms, c