Drummers swap seats, guitarists pass the straps to the next guitarist, and equipment including amplifiers and pedals are passed down to the following performance.
Eight bands rocked out for the Battle of the Bands event Monday, April 27, where students performed covers and original songs from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. in front of the El Camino College Art Gallery in competition for a prize.
The Society of Music Club collaborated with the art gallery to host their second Battle of the Bands event which showcased the talents within the club.
The genres ranged from Latin music to heavy metal and electronic rock which attracted the attention of about 30 crowd members who showed up for the tunes and in support of the club’s event.
Josias Canul-Marchand, president of the Society of Music Club said it is important to come together and perform.
“We love seeing the arts grow and it’s always special seeing people [at events],” Canul-Marchand said, “there’s always someone you can relate to.”
In between running around hosting the event, Canul-Marchand cheered on his fellow musicians.
For many students, the event was an opportunity to make connections with other writers and singers in the club.
Student, drummer and singer Michael Nicoli said, “it’s an excuse to hang out and play music.”
“[Battle of the Bands] is an easy way to break from reality and just hang out,” Brandon, “Bee Lo” Brag, 25, songwriter and guitarist said. “Making music is only part of it,” Brag added, “it’s self expression and it’s fun to hear what others think about it.”
Some of the participating bands included Speaking of Her, rock out to their new demo single “Ruminate.”
“We’re mostly doing it for fun now, but we also need people to take over for the Fall since most of us [in the Society of Music club] are leaving,” Canul-Marchand said.
The Society of Music Club meets every Tuesday from 1:25- 2:25 p.m. in Room 134 of the Music Building.
The club will be hosting their next event on Monday, May 4, for Star Wars Day. The “May the Fourth be with You” event will feature an orchestra that will play Star Wars’ theme songs and soundtracks.
