It’s taken 7 weeks, but we’re almost ready for the semi-finals. 16 bands will face off over the course of two nights to decide who will be crowned this year’s champion.

But first, we have one last issue to resolve: there are still two spots left, and 3 bands here to battle it out. So without further ado, let’s get this final night of the 1st round going. I’m back at the judges’ table along with Rachel Hanley (IndyMojo) and special guest judge Rob Snodgrass (that’s right, our host is pulling double duty tonight), and our first performer looks like he’s ready to go.

As evidenced by the guitar case he propped up on the stage, Jason Brown is first up. While most artists have had weeks to perform, he had just joined the competition that afternoon, but by listening to him, you wouldn’t even notice. Each song has a different feel (fun, somber, serious, rock, personal, etc.) and his overage confidence and stage presence tied everything together nicely. He’s very personable, and he has no problem baring his soul while on stage. Overall, it’s a very cohesive set from someone who looks like he has what it takes to go deep into this competition.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen competitors from weeks past come back to give it another go. Hey, why not? The slots were still open. This time, we’re welcoming back Mr. Jerry Allen and his crew. They were impressive the first time I saw them, so let’s see what they can do this time.

The biggest thing he had going against him last time was that his set felt very “on-rails,” and to some degree, it still holds up. Most songs – while beautifully executed – followed the same straight line. However, this time he throws in a new song with a little bit different feel, adding enough variety to keep things interesting. Also different this time were a few technical difficulties with the sound (mic was too low, a bad cord), but Mr. Allen soldiers through it relatively unphased and definitely earns some more points from this crowd. In the end, the name of the game is execution, and these guys definitely bring it.

I’ve seen a lot of new faces this time around, but I’ve also seen a few familiar faces. This next one falls into the latter category: a female soloist by the name of Eddie, making her return to the stage after a 4-year break.

Was she nervous? Yes, and she’ll even tell you that. That came across in between some of her songs as some of her banter tended to steer things off the rails. She even made someone lick a dead battery. Past all of this though was a very heartfelt, very folk-inspired set. She goes back and forth between picking and strumming her guitar, and her soft playing style matched her equally-soft vocals. Two people even took to dancing next to the stage during a song. In the end, her stage presence might have been a little unusual, but it was 100% her, and what’s music without a little authenticity?

Just like that, we’re done. The 1st round has finally reached its conclusion. Attendees turn in their ballots and all that’s left is to count the votes. The judges award points, while others step outside for a quick cigarette. This week, we have post-show entertainment provided by Jerry Allen and Jason Brown. In regards to the latter, it’s a nice change of pace from the high(er) stakes nature of the show to seeing them in something that’s closer to their element, which is, entertaining people with music.

After some time, Rob Snodgrass returns to the stage to deliver the news that will send us into the 2nd round. Who’s moving on? It goes a little like this:

2nd: Jason Brown
1st: Jerry Allen

Jason sticks around to perform for a bit. Some people stick around, while the rest head for the exits, eagerly awaiting what next week will bring.

So here we are, 16 acts are left, but only one can sit atop the throne (not an Iron one though). Next week, 8 of them will take to the 247 Sky Bar’s stage to show what they’ve got. Who will emerge? That’s for you to decide. No really, your vote decides who moves on and who goes home. It’s all Indiana music, all original, and it’s all up to you to choose a winner.

So join us, won’t you? See you all next week.