Cats lap up praise

Feb 24 2009 by Andrew Welsh, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

A PERTH band have made it through to the next stage of a UK-wide search for music’s brightest new hopes.

Blues rockers Black Cat Scene were given a big thumbs up by judges at the Scottish auditions for the Live and Unsigned talent competition, which were held last week at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall.

As a result of that success, the three-piece will be given the chance to perform at the next live stages of the 10,000-band event on March 14.

After competing against hundreds of other hopefuls, Black Cat Scene have been invited to take part in a live head-to-head battle in front of hundreds of music fans and a professional judging panel to win a place in the final heats,

The Perth High School band, who have just completed a debut EP, formed just over a year ago.

Their line-up features 16-year-old Sam McMaster (guitar / vocals), Lil’ Chris Marshall (14) on drums / harmonica /vocals, and bassist / vocalist Kris Dye (16).

Live and Unsigned is a national music competition that gives unsigned acts the chance to compete live for a lucrative recording contract.

With over 10,000 registrations, it’s the UK’s biggest music talent search for original acts.

Artist manager and concert promoter Paul King, who is best known for his work with the likes of Tears For Fears, Julian Cope, Level 42 and Genesis, headed up the judging panel.

The Future Music boss said the event helps identify talented artists ripe for public exposure.

“We can really see those acts that have the commitment and fan base to be successful in the industry,” he said.

“For the acts involved it is a great opportunity to develop and impress.”

Competitors in the heats will be asked to perform two songs, one of their own compositions and a creative cover.

The contest has winners in separate categories covering indie, urban, pop / acoustic and metal, with the overall winner being offered a recording and management contract with Future Music, including an investment of up to £20,000 to release a single.

The winners will be thrust into the media spotlight and invited to join the UK Live and Unsigned tour involving as many as 100 gigs and the chance to perform live at some well-known festivals.

Last year’s winners Kiddo 360 have gone on to win an award at the Vodafone Live Awards last October, which also honoured The Ting Tings, Primal Scream and Kate Nash.

Black Cat Scene will compete in the live show on March 14 at the Royal Concert Hall for a place in the national final on May 2.

There’s more on the band at www.myspace.com/blackcatsceneband