Photo by Andrew R. Jones

Acoustic rockers Family Portrait was one of six bands that performed at UPC’s Battle of the Bands.

Last Friday night hundreds of music fans showed up on Cater Lawn on Auburn’s campus for the UPCs annual Battle of the Bands. This year proved to be one of the best yet, with an incredibly high turnout. The eclectic mix of groups ranged from rock cover bands to R&B.
Each of the six bands were given 25-minute allotments to set up their equipment and to perform. Most of the bands played two covers and two originals, the latter of which were judged by a panel of non-UPC judges.

Opening up the event, local group Tophouse began by performing a Raconteurs medley with “Level” and “Consolers of the Lonely” - both of which were extremely tight - before playing two of their rock-influenced upbeat originals. On the opposite side of the spectrum, acoustic rockers Family Portrait, likely to be lumped in the indie category, played a few of their low-key tunes.

The highlight of the night was the performance by Huntsville natives, Moose, who opened with spot on covers of Steppenwolf’s “Magic Carpet Ride” and segued into Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” before playing two originals. Moose’s drummer, Will Smith, who is also on the Auburn drumline, provided some ravenous drumming for the rest of the group as they jammed on their original tunes.
Another favorite was the funky R&B group Therapy, who incorporated some heavy rhythms and layered vocals for a very sensual, organic sound. Despite some technical difficulties, the group put on a good show and took the Battle of the Bands first prize, which was $400.