Start a revolution from your bedroom

The River Rock people who brought you those ads that nobody understands (How do you wear mineral water? And why?) are taking press release humour to a whole new level with their announcement of the 2004 River 'Rock' Music Revolution. ‘Rock’, geddit?

Witty puns aside, their music quest for the best unsigned bands and solo acts sounds like the place to be for any rock or alternative hopefuls. Competing acts get a chance to perform at the Island Arts Centre in Lisburn, Antrim, and the lucky winners walk away with a prize that includes £500 cash, a live recording of the performance and a professional, promotional photo shoot. Not bad at all.

The 2003’s winners, The Zoo, have since performed with the Stranglers, and played at the influential Belfast Festival and belFEST.

So if you fancy your chances and you are (a) a new or established unsigned band/solo performer and (b) writing and performing your own original material, then be sure to send your entry in by June 28.

Application forms are available from The Island Arts Centre, Lagan Valley Island, Lisburn. For more information telephone (028) 92 509509, textphone (028) 92 509508, or email [email protected]

Meanwhile in Derry, July 17 sees local promoter Vigilante Events host their first ever Battle of the Bands at The Nerve Centre.

This is an all-ages event with a particular focus on encouraging young and inexperienced bands. Eight bands are expected to battle it out on the night and the judging panel will feature representatives from Across The Line, NIMIC, Alternative Ulster, The Nerve Centre and Michael Bradley from The Undertones.

The winning band receives one day of recording time in the Blast Furnace Studio, and special fetaures in Alternative Ulster Magazine and BBC radio's Across The Line. Second and third prizes include Henderson's Music vouchers for £100 and £50 respectively.

For more information on the Videlanteism Battle of the Bands or to obtain an application form, email [email protected]