Search is on for unsigned talent

Mar 3 2009 by Andrew Welsh, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

TALENTED unsigned bands are being invited to submit demos for this year’s T Break competition.

The initiative, which tracks down fresh talent to play at T in the Park, has grown into an established highlight on the Scottish musical calendar since starting in 1996.

Organised by festival sponsors Tennent’s Lager, the band search has supported thousands of aspiring musicians, including cult heroes Biffy Clyro and Island signings Attic Lights, who first made their mark at the event.

Both Scots acts have acknowledged the backing they received from T Break while working to launch their careers, while others to have followed the same path have included The Cinematics, The Lizard Kings and Drive-By Argument.

Sponsorship head George Kyle said Scotland’s best 16 new bands would be given a chance to play at the Balado extravaganza.

“We’re looking forward to hearing from Scotland’s freshest, unsigned talent again this year,” he told Music Scene yesterday.

“Each year we are amazed by the passion there is throughout Scotland for making new music, and we are proud to be able to give those aspiring musicians a platform at T in the Park.”

Dave McGeachan of festival organisers DF Concerts said initiatives like T Break helped explain the sheer diversity to be found among the nation’s grassroots musical talent.

“Securing a slot on the T Break stage at T in the Park has become a must for emerging Scottish acts, so the competition is always fierce,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to seeing yet more fantastic live talent take to the stage at this year’s festival.”

T Break’s long-time supporter, Radio 1 in Scotland jock Vic Galloway, said he was continually astounded by the mountains of demos received.

“It’s always a highlight of mine at T in the Park to visit the tent and see the sheer quality and diversity of Scottish bands,” he enthused.

“Main stage headliners Snow Patrol started right there, as did many other quality bands further up the bill in different tents.

“I’d encourage anyone who has a ticket to T in the Park to take a stroll off the beaten track and support the stars of the future.”

T Break is open to unsigned musical acts over the age of 18 who perform original material.

Entrants should visit www.tbreak.co.uk for submission details. Demos can be uploaded via the website or by post, with the closing deadline April 15.

Entries will be scrutinised by a T Break judging panel which will include representatives from Tennent’s, DF Concerts, Radio 1 and HMV.