Battle of the Bands Finale

Following five heats, the Battle of the Bands Finale brings the final five together to compete for the win. Australia’s emerging bands were invited to take the stage at one of Melbourne’s most iconic live music venues, as the Battle of the Bands returned to Hotel Esplanade, ‘The Espy’, for the first time in years.

The five finalists – Charlotte Bridie, Everlyne, Pepper La Floyd, Operation Karma and The Mason – will compete in the legendary Gershwin Room for a major prize pool that includes $4,000 cash, a paid St Kilda Festival 2027 slot, promo photography session and more.

It’s an event that could create Melbourne’s next big band, that celebrates talent, and the ideal reason for music lovers to get out and be a part of the city’s music landscape.

Prizes

The bands are competing for a series of incredible prizes! From cash prizes, to a stage slot at The Espy, the competition gives the winner a chance for great exposure to the public.

First Place Prize

$4,000 cash, provided by The Espy
A paid slot on The Espy Live stage at St Kilda Festival 2027
A free promo photography session with Indianah Hayz Photography
50 printed and distributed posters and 1000 printed A6 flyers provided by Shout Out Loud
50 printed band t-shirts provided by OPM Designs
Feature interview published in www.beat.com.au and a full page in the print magazine

Second Place Prize

$1,000 in cash provided by The Espy
100 printed A3 posters and 250 printed A6 flyers provided by Shout Out Loud

Other finalists will not miss out, with all receiving one song filmed and recorded live at the Grand Final by James Dominko Photography and Darius Papak from Mudbrick Studios/Mix On The Move.

The Gershwin Room holds a 100 year musical history after being added in the 1920s as a dance and jazz hall. Since then, the room has become a cornerstone of Melbourne’s live music scene – from the disco nights of the 70s to when it re-opened in 2025, welcoming acts such as Snoop Dogg, Darude and G Flip to its stage.

The Espy’s Battle of the Bands is another demonstration of the venue’s dedication to live music, and its commitment to fostering Melbourne’s musical talents. Whether joining as a band entrant or as a spectator, The Espy is excited to host guests in one of the standout music events of the year.

Hotel Esplanade
11 The Esplanade,
St Kilda, VIC, 3182
https://hotelesplanade.com.au/the-espy-battle-of-the-bands/

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Battle of the Bands Finale