There was much celebrating, albeit of the non- alcoholic kind, out at RTÉ on Friday night as The Truffle Shuffles from County Cork won the latest 2fm School of Rock competition, which was judged by such industry heavy-hitters as Larry Gogan, Dave Fanning, MCD’s Noel McHale, Hot Press’ Niall Stokes, Faction Records’ Ken Allen and others who are listed in The Phantom’s ringside report in our new issue out on Thursday January 15.

Reflects the aforementioned Mr. Stokes, sir: “The Truffle Shuffles were the outstanding contenders – they had a great song, with a memorable chorus and delivered it with real soul in a way that felt authentic and free of the elements of pastiche and influence, which are characteristic of almost every teen band.”

We think he liked them! Pupils of Colaiste Choilm in Ballincollig, they also get a rave review from School Of Rock coordinator Helen Cullen.

“We are incredibly proud of the fantastic musical humans who performed at this year’s of School Of Rock,” she gushes. “Everyone was blown away by the standard and each band was a joy to work with. The winners, The Truffle Shuffles, are something very, very special. I have no doubt that the day (singer and lead guitarist) Nathan O’Regan was born a tuning fork was struck upon a star. Huge thanks also to Boss Volenti for their spine-tingling performance as our special guests. They received a standing ovation, greatly deserved, for they could and should be one of the biggest bands in the world. Roll on 2010!”

Along with ten grand’s worth of equipment from Everest Music & Piano Centre, The Truffle Shuffles get five-days recording time in Pulse, a support slot at an upcoming MCD event, a photo-shoot, a digital radio for each band member and a Hot Press interview.