Savantic, the first band on stage, had excellent drumming and an impressive saxophone sound, but was a bit weak on lyrics, guitar play, and intensity. However, I did enjoy their humorous antics such as throwing kisses out to the audience members and cutting credit cards during a song about financial freedom.

The competition’s runner-up, Effect, showcased a well-coordinated, progressive sound and disciplined guitar play that reminded me a bit of personal favorites Rush and Pink Floyd. Their song was slightly long but otherwise very well performed.

The third-place finisher, Surviving Annex, had a loud, rocking punk/grunge sound much like Sponge or the Goo Goo Dolls before their Super Star Carwash album. Their moving rendition of “My Hero” by the Foo Fighters was especially superb and could have helped them to achieve a spot in the next competition.

The winner of the competition, the alternative band DMP Project, featured smooth, gripping, guitar work, a loud, powerfully stirring sound, and most excellent instrumental synchronization. A singer from the Dot Machine, a band that had performed at the last Battle of the Bands, contributed to their excellent vocals. They performed the last song of the night as the prize for winning the competition.

Although the Battle of the Bands was well-organized and provided excellent entertainment, it would probably have been more enjoyable if those in attendance had voted for the winner of the competition rather than a panel of six judges. Since the bands’ members are students, their performances should also be judged by the opinions of their peers.