An April blizzard ushered in the last weekend of quarter finals at the Petit Campus in Montreal last week on Thursday the 12th. Unity Jam – a group of youngsters with a horn section and very strong vocals - kicked off the night, followed by Billioneyes, a more mature rock band. Dimebag Jonnys took the stage next, sporting pajama pants and spouting out some energetic punk – a good lead into Silver Stone’s modern rock with which they stole the show. Next, Jebus, rocked the crowd with their enthusiasm and Bridges to Dreams ended the night with two long melodic pieces. Les Voisins, a francophone folk-rock number, got the crowd going with their version of ‘Oh Canada’ first thing on Friday. Dislexy, with their long instrumental piece, did their thing in front a group of screaming female fans. Hindsight introduced their new singer to the public this night and put up a great performance. Next up, Leap enchanted the audience with their melodies and strong presence. Top Johnny’s retro sound and look kicked the energy and vibe up a notch and finally, The End, appropriately so, wrapped up the show with some pop folk. Wicked Star took the stage first on Saturday, adding to their set a dancer. Manoray’s experimental rock kept the vibe going and Ytheband won the crowd with a great performance including an acoustic number. Drastic’s unparalleled energy and distinct sound drew in the crowd and won them first place. The alternative rock trio Sunyata was up next also incorporating some acoustic sounds. A real change of pace with The Polo Hypocrisy who shook the crowd with some melodic metal. The instrumental trio Dekesse got the crowd involved in their psychedelic set getting them to scream ‘Grabenbrusky’! The fast paced pop-punk of Empty Brother Paul finished off the night. Sunday – another snowy night - started on an excellent note with Mukus, a three-piece rock group with amazing energy. Houle and the Gang slowed things down with a softer sound and female vocals – and a very successful rendition of a Janice Joplin hit. Warfare pumped the crowd up again with some classic long-hair death metal followed by Evali who performed an admirable hardcore set. A very respectful closure to the evening was put forth by Nomad with their classic rock tones and acoustic accents. We’ll be seeing this weekend’s winners rocking it out at Club Soda and hope to see the rest of the bands cheering them on!