| 5th Battle of the Bands - Spring 2008 This year's battle brought forth its largest crowd at The Union Bar, topping around 1500 people. Three bands performed for first prize of $750. This time there was no second place winner, allowing the other two bands to take home $125 each. The bands that competed were The Uniphonics, Mad Monks, and Minus Six, with The Uniphonics as the winner. Much of the format of the battle remained the same as last year with the larger set times and voting process. With the continued support of University of Iowa Credit Union, West Music, and Old Chicago the battle was a large success once again. |
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4th Battle of the Bands - Spring 2007 The battle continued to expand upon the success of the previous three years. Twenty Something White Guys, The Vandon Arms, and EastEighteen met at The Union Bar on Saturday April 21st to duke it out, with EastEighteen taking home the $750 first place prize and additional performance, and Vandon Arms winning the $150 second prize. The new three band format, combined with another increase in prizes, meant that bands had even more to gain by playing for the Iowa City audience. The evening ended with all of the musicians coming together in a jam session. The voting system also underwent an overhaul, putting power directly in the hands of the audience. Tickets were issued at the door and when drinks were purchased. Audience members showed their support for their favorite band by placing their accumulated tickets in that band's voting box. Rolling Rock sponsored the event with $1 Wells all night, and was joined by sponsors University of Iowa Community Credit Union and Old Chicago. |
| 3rd Battle of the Bands - Fall 2006 The once humble battle was growing with a focus on bringing together eastern Iowa's musical community. Bands were selected from a larger demographic, and the prize was increased to allow two bands to go home with cash in hand. Prominent members of the musical community acted as guest judges, getting a chance to meet with the performers. Iowa State Bank and Trust and Old Chicago were also brought on board to sponsor the event. The event and bands were even featured in an article in the 80 Hours section of the Daily Iowan. All involved met with each other beforehand at a networking dinner. Unfortunately, things were postponed when a tornado hit downtown Iowa City 2 weeks prior to the event, and took the roof from The Union Bar. As a result, The Critical Hour, New Beat Society, Unsung Heroes, and Jim the Mule met for an October show. New Beat Society took home $500 and a follow-up gig at The Union Bar, and Jim the Mule took the second place prize of $100. |
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2nd Battle of the Bands- Spring 2005 Many changes were made to ensure success for future battles by changing venues to The Union Bar. This proved to be very popular as over 800 people showed up to hear Fighting Blind, The Jake Dilly Band, Public Property, and Hairline Fracture. The Jake Dilly Band took home the $500 prize. This battle also brought forth a continued tradition of the Battle of the Bands t-shirts. |
| 1st Battle of the Bands - Spring 2004 The brothers of Iota Gamma chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia were in search of a way to hold true to the Object of the fraternity, which is "to advance music in America". The chapter was looking for a unique way to incorporate the music scene of downtown Iowa City. The chapter decided on a Battle of the Bands to promote up and coming artists in the Iowa City area. The first venue to host the Battle of the Bands was the Industry, formally known as the Que Bar. Three bands performed at the battle and a prize of $500 was taken home by winner, Downtime. |
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