After a hugely successful series of gigs last summer, the Battle of the Bands competition returns to Mike the Pies this June.

Mike the Pies the legendary Listowel venue which has hosted many a memorable gig including Fontaines D.C. and the live debut of The Murder Capital held it’s inaugural Battle of the Bands competition last year with the stunning talent that is Abe Soare emerging victorious after 6 nights of eclectic and impressive music.

The aim of the Battle of the Bands is to unearth the next big thing, along with showcasing as many up and coming acts as possible.The competition is open to all unsigned bands, singers, and musicians, with some tantalizing prizes up for grabs,  with the overall winner getting to have a single recorded at Camden Studios, with a release by Cork’s FIFA Records.

There will be 5 heats over 5 nights starting on Thursday, June 15th with the Grand Final taking place on Friday, July 28th. The panel of judges is a who’s who of music industry notables such as Fergal D’Arcy, Elaine Kinsella, Willie Ryan, Audrey Reidy and Golden Plec’s own John Loftus.

It’s a great opportunity for any act to to put their talent in the spotlight and show what they’ve got on stage. Entries need to be sent in by the closing date of Thursday, June 1st. Send your details to MTPBattleoftheBands@hotmail.com and make sure to include a link to your music, and a short bio.

Tickets to the live shows will be on sale soon from Mike the Pies, and will cost €10 per night.