By Ohad Amram, Staff Writer

Many gathered around this past Saturday March 24 in the Netherlands Café for Hofstra University’s sixth annual Battle of the Bands, which determined which band would perform at Music Fest. This event allows Hofstra students to showcase their talent and win a chance to open for the Spring Music Fest headlining act. 

This year there were six performances. Unlike previous years, the competition has allowed for a wider variety of music. Rather than just bands, now solo acts such as rap performers like sophomore Melina Tsilfoglou and junior Kayden “Tunes” Wong, can perform. Other performers were rap group 2G, whose members include sophomore Matthew “Young Hooks” Martinez, as well as the two bands to perform; Toxin and this year’s Battle for Music Fest winner, Earthquake Lights.  

Tunes, the opening act of the Battle, displayed heart in his rhymes and executed with confidence, despite the fact that it was the young solo performer’s first year performing at the battle. Tunes stated after his performance, “This is my first year performing at Battle for Music Fest. I believe it used to be just for bands. I’m glad that they’re giving everyone a chance now.” The outspoken rapper played a four-song set and from beginning until the end of his set, made all attempts to strike conversation with the audience, opening his set with asking the audience, “Hey, how many you guys got haters?” The set was promising and definitely made for a good opening act. “This year wasn’t my year but next year, I’m definitely bringing it to a whole other level. I hope they’re prepared,” Tunes said.

The second act of the show happened to have been the winners, Earthquake Lights. This group of talented musicians displayed every quality necessary to win the competition, with harmonic keys and a fantastic rhythm section, often complimented by altered