One of the most important cultural aspects of UVM is the University’s thriving music scene. The sheer passion for music amongst student bands and their fans was evident at the electrifying Battle of the Bands Finale, which took place in Higher Ground’s Showcase Lounge March 19.

Over the past month, student bands have been competing with one another in the annual Battle of the Bands competition hosted by the University Program Board. After an intense preliminary round in early March, four bands qualified to compete at the Showcase Lounge, where students then voted on which band would have the opportunity to open for the headlining artist at Springfest. 

The audience felt thumping drums and rage-filled vocals from Tabarnak, Mother of Pearl’s heartbreaking songwriting, and the immensely talented vocalists and instrumentalists from Wet Denim. Swampy Tonk, the winning band, won the audience over with their signature blend of country and folk music.