UNI Music League (UML) is about to reach it’s conclusion for 2013. Having seen 32 acts from over 25 universities across the country in the opening rounds, we are down to the final four.
Three top venues in Camden (PROUD Galleries), Soho (The Borderline) and Shoreditch (Hoxton Bar & Kitchen) have seen UML contestants tearing up, edging closer and closer to the final. We have had highs and lows of epic proportions, with tears of sadness, tears of joy, and actual tear gas. We have seen some toddler bands develop and grow, maturing into consistently sensational performers. The event is shaping up to be one of the best unsigned live music nights in the country.
It seems only appropriate to host the final event at a worthy venue, so UML is heading to the 02 Academy Islington on Thursday, May 9 for the year’s closing ceremonies. The top four student acts in the country will be playing 30min sets to a jam-packed house (more details on those acts below), but the event has other attractions on offer. Tribes will be playing a DJ set once the final results have been announced.
The winner of the photography competition will also be announced on the night, where a number of professional photographers will be assessing the top student entries received all year. Of course the overarching sense of conclusion will inevitably amplify the already electric atmosphere of these events into the realm of hysteria, so expect an unbelievable party if nothing else. And don’t forget, YOU decide who wins on the night, so read on to understand the decision at hand. It’s not be taken lightly...
The winner of UML 2013 is taking home a potentially life-changing package. Topping the list is an EP recorded at Metropolis Studios, the leading independent recording and production facility in Europe. With a Metropolis producer appointed based on the genre of the winning act, the opportunity to record with some of the highest-calibre industry professionals could easily be prize enough. But ney, also included is a 3-month PR campaign surrounding the EP release, in association with Playground PR. This will include a photo shoot + promo video as well as all the PR classics. Completing the list is a slot at Wilderness Festival and a support slot a KOKO Camden, two outstanding gig opportunities for the summer.
Alaskan Faction:
An outstanding Nottingham-based indie-pop outfit. These guys have had the whole room busting shapes with their undeniably catchy tunes, reminiscent of Two Door Cinema Club and Bombay Bicycle Club’s dancier side.
James and the Rabbit Hole:
A wonderful new-school approach to original surfy-rocky-blues. Be prepared to get taken away by a truly accomplished sound, with lyrics akin to country storytelling.
Rubin and the Groovy Tuesdays:
Fronted by the wonderful Rubin, who dips in and out of his loop station with effortless grace, this band have a fantastic mix under a loose and elegant folk umbrella.
T*U*A:
A 3-piece hip-hop act taking the South by storm. Reminiscent of early Lupe Fiasco and Luke Christopher, the group are spread across Portsmouth and London and have already amassed an impressive following.
Buy tickets bit.ly/ZDgWOB
