UCD Battle of the Bands returns – with the winning prize including a guitar worth over €1,000

UCD Music Society’s Battle of the Bands is back this year.

Taking place during Fresher’s Week on Tuesday, September 16, the competition is once again run in association with Hot Press and is now open for applications.

The event is calling on bands (each act must include at least one current UCD student) to take to the stage to battle it out for a wide set of prizes – including a Fender J Mascis/Dinosaur Jr Telecaster guitar, worth €1,000, courtesy of X-Music.

Fender J Mascis/Dinosaur Jr Telecaster guitar, courtesy of X-Music.

The winning band will also secure:

A coveted slot on the Whelan’s ONES TO WATCH 2026 line-up
A Hot Press photographer shooting their live set
Coverage of their performance on hotpress.com
A professional selection of photos for their own use
An interview with Hot Press
Inclusion in Hot Press’ influential ‘Hot for 2026’ list

How to apply:

Fill out the application form below with your details, a short biography of your band, and any links to live performances or recordings you may have.

Applications are open now – those interested can sign up here.