EMP’s Sound Off starts semifinals

EMP Museum will host its first semifinal round of Sound Off! 2015, its “battle of the bands” for young artists in the Pacific Northwest, on Friday, Feb. 13.

Now in its 14th year, Sound Off! gives musicians 21 and younger an opportunity to showcase their work, connect with the larger artistic community and perform live at a top venue in the region. 

Bands performing in this round include Seattle’s all-female family band Bleachbear, Champagne Babylon and Nightspace and Super Soaked, of Oregon, City, Ore.

The show will begin at 8 p.m. at EMP’s Sky Church (325 Fifth Ave. N.).

The second round will take place Feb. 20, with Charlie and the Rays, Hemlock Lane, Honcho Poncho and Naked Giants competing.

The third round, on Feb. 27, will feature Emma Lee Toyoda, Mystery Machines, One Above Below None and Righteous Minds.

The winner of each semifinal round will advance to the finals round, vying for the Sound Off! 2015 title on March 7. The finals competition will include a “wild card” band from the semifinalist pool selected by a youth panel.

The winner of Sound Off! 2015 will have the opportunity to perform at a major music festival in the region. Prizes for the top-four finalist bands include gear, studio time, radio airplay and one-on-one consultations with music industry professionals. 

For tickets to the semifinal shows, visit EMPmuseum.org/soundoff.