The showcase formerly known as Battle of the Bands

Back to Alternative acts

By Vincent Geerts
Ames247 Staff Writer

More than a dozen local bands submitted contact information, a music sample and a short biography to be considered for a stage spot during the Music Showcase Extraordinaire (MuSE) at The Maintenance Shop on Veishea Thursday.

According to M-Shop director Connor Nolan, six applicants were chosen for the free show based on “overall criteria” such as having a local base and music quality. In the end, Bull of Arc, Bombardier, Chaos Saints, The Blend, Cameron and Androids Dungeon were chosen.

In addition, national touring act Gentlemen Hall will take the stage at the end of the night.

“We weren’t originally planning on it, but they needed a show that day,” Nolan said. “They’re a pretty big up-and-coming band with a new album this year.”

The album “When We All Disappear” was produced by multi-platinum award-winning music producer Michael Siefert and mixed by Tony Maserati, who has worked with big name artists such as Lady Gaga, Beyonce and Jason Mraz.

Ames rock group Bombardier, which won last year’s Veishea Battle of the Bands, returns for MuSE this year. The group has maintained a tri-weekly practice schedule since then, and is happy to have a chance to play at the M-Shop again after so long.

“Playing at the M-Shop is always great,“ said lead vocalist Josh Tenney. “Every band just wants the chance to play a full house.”

Last year, the M-Shop filled to capacity quickly and was forced to institute a one in, one out policy. Bombardier expects this year’s turnout to be similar, though there is no award up for grabs.

“I don’t think it really affects how well the bands play,” Tenney said. “It’s nice to be recognized and the competition is fun, but we’re not worried about it.”

The band hopes to eventually make its music a full-time job and has been working heavily on its latest album since last year. Tentatively titled, “Don’t Mind Me” is in progress at Alexander Recording Kompany in Ames.

Other acts in the showcase bridge a variety of genres from hip-hop and rock to pop and punk. A full lineup is listed below. You can read the band’s bios here.

MuSE is free, open to the public and expected to fill up, so arrive early.

MuSE
When: 6 p.m. Thursday
Where: The Maintenance Shop
Cost: Free

Lineup:
Bull of Arc — 6 p.m.
Bombardier — 6:40 p.m.
Chaos Saints — 7:20 p.m.
The Blend — 8:05 p.m.
Cameron — 8:50 p.m.
Androids Dungeon — 9:30 p.m.
Gentlemen Hall — 10:15 p.m.