Photo by: Devin Pitts-Rogers

Last Friday, the Sidelines Pub transformed from a local sports-themed restaurant into a music venue for the DU community.  A social gathering with a hint of intimacy between the performers and the audience seemed to be the atmosphere.

Though Sidelines does this regularly, there was slightly more momentum this time around as the DU Battle of the Bands Preview was under way.

A full assortment of instruments were present. Expected instruments like guitars and drums were on the scene, as were unconventional instruments such as windpipes, and even pens and paper.  The variety here was unqiue, providing a means to cater to the musical interests of most in attendance. 

Among the performances were musicians freshman Miranda Whytsides, freshman Cassie Chanthavong and the acapella band Exit 205. 

One of the pluses of watching these groups perform is witnessing the passion involved in their music.  They are here because of their passion for playing, and there isn’t too much that gets in the way of that. Even though this instance was related to Battle of the Bands, it was difficult to tell by the overall setting.

There hadn’t been particular discrimination towards one performance or another, and the support for each individual on stage was strong. The audience seemed eager and enthusiastic to hear each upcoming song.

The music itself was great.  The audience was treated to many songs, which included but was not limited to original music, acoustic variations, Nelly songs from years passed, along with an acapella version of “This Love” from Maroon 5. Considering that these songs were mere acts apart, it can be said talent and variety were present.

Although it isn’t too common for a preview for Battle of the Bands to take place, the Sidelines Pub does regularly put on “DU Unplugged,” an open mic night that takes place on the first Friday of every month.