Congratulations to the four bands that have won a slot in our live Battle of Original Music: Suffolk & Rain, Canoe, Coterie of Stern, and the Funky Beets.

These four acts will square off in person at Nietzsche’s on Friday, January 14. The band that collects the most ballots from concert-goers that night will win a slot in the BOOM Grand Finale, where one talented act will be crowned the Artvoice BOOM Grand Champion and walk away with a hefty cash prize.

Past B.O.O.M. Grand Champions include local notables Dali’s Ghost, TypeRelevant, and Photos of Wagons.

Since 2006, the Artvoice Battle of Original Music has provided exposure to hundreds of area artists, through our weekly online contests and our live shows. We couldn’t have done it without the generous sponsors who’ve supported our contest with their time, talent, and treasure over the years. We’ve given away everything from musical gear, to recording time, to packaged CDs, to tattoos! Plus over $15,000 in cash. But the thing never would have lasted a week without all the musicians who are out there working to create their own unique sound, and craft their own sincere message to share with us. And of course, it would all be for naught were it not for the great, enthusiastic local music fans who’ve visited our Web site and packed the venues at our live shows. We’re lucky to have such a happening scene, and Artvoice is proud to play a little part in it.

So we’ll see you all at Nietzsche’s on January 14, where one of the bands to your right will win a coveted slot in our BOOM Grand Finale, next to our first live show winners, the Etchings. Come out and let your voice be heard. And as always, may the best band win.

Visit the BOOM website for more information, and for band sign-up - there's two more rounds yet to come!

Week 1 winners: Suffolk & Rain

Week 2 winners: Canoe

Week 3 winners: Coterie of Stern

Week 4 winners: The Funky Beets