World Aids Day Sheffield 2009

After months of working hard to write a song about HIV and Aids, a tense final took place on Saturday for the World Aids Day battle of the bands.

The five finalists took to the stage to perform three songs each, one of which was their specially composed World Aids Day track. The tremendous effort made by all the finalists was clear to see and the judges had a very tough decision to make when it came to picking a winner.

After some serious deliberation, the judges unanimously crowned Flares From Far Away as champions, earning them a coveted  support slot at the WADstock gig on World Aids Day itself.

Flares From Far Away were chosen for their stripped back acoustic indie and beautiful harmonies. The band is made up of Tom Southward (lead vocals) and Elliot Whiteside (guitar), both  from Tapton School.

One of the judges, John K from The Violet May, was so impressed by their efforts that he offered to record a free demo at his studio for the aspiring artists to help them on their way to stardom.

Fellow judge and BBC Radio Sheffield Raw Talent presenter, Iain Hodgson, added: “There was a really eclectic line-up and every act had something different to offer. Some incredibly talented young people put on some truly great performances.”

To catch Flares From Far Away before they hit the big time, get down to WADstock on Tuesday 1st December, 7pm at the O2 Academy Sheffield – tickets are only £5 and all proceeds go to our three chosen charities.

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