Normally, the loudest thing in downtown Andes on a given weekend is a passing motorcycle. But this Saturday, teenagers from across the Catskills will converge on the fire pavilion on Tremperskill Road to play rock, alternative rock, thrash metal, and rockabilly in a contest for cash prizes.
It's the Andes Battle of the Bands, and the idea is to show the world that the town isn't just for the comfortably middle-aged. From the event's press release:
Andes Fire Chief Joe Berghammer felt there wasn't enough for young people to do around here. He specifically wanted to have a venue for young musicians to perform and receive the attention they deserve. Joe's idea motivated other members of the fire department, of Andes Works! and of WIOX radio to create the Andes 'Battle of the Bands'! On July 14th seven bands will compete for cash prizes. The bands are coming from six different towns; their music is rock, alternative rock, thrash metal, and rockabilly; their ages range from 12 to 20! WIOX radio will broadcast the whole event - from 2pm to 5pm live. Free Admission."
If your band is performing, you'd better show up and cheer -- winners are determined by the racousness of the crowd. While you're at it, give a hand to the Andes Fire Department, which created the event. It's awesome to see a town institution give local teens a venue to rock out.
For more info, check out the listing in our calendar.
Below: Andes Fire Chief Joe Berghammer with some members of the squad.
