High school rock bands from across the state of Maine are once again being invited to step out of their garages and basements and into the limelight in Reindeer Record’s 19th Annual ROCK-OFF competition. The winning band will earn the title of “Best Young Band in the State of Maine,” plus receive $1,000 to help with their career plans.

Young original bands of all contemporary genres and experience levels will present their brand of talent in one of several showcases slated for April 5 and 6 at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland. The top five overall scoring bands will then advance to the Finals, set for Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, also at McAuley.

Producer Louis Philippe describes the competition as a musical triathlon that’s much more intense-and fun-than the average battle-of-the-bands. Separate judging panels evaluate each band on many facets of their live performance, original material and marketability.

“We impose label industry criteria that makes this competition unique and multi-faceted,” said Philippe. “The top prize money is certainly a good incentive but what can prove to be more valuable are the opportunities for publicity, networking and industry exposure that the Rock-Off historically provides to all participating bands across the board.”

Last year’s winning band was “GLORY TRAP” representing Thornton Academy.

Registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 21. Information and online registration packets can be obtained by contacting Reindeer at 878-4554 or ReindeerHQ@aol.com.


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