FOR Decembers Fallen, the battle of the bands circuit is more than just another gig.
It’s the chance for this upcoming heavy metal rock band to take centre stage.
The hills-based group has been working hard on the battle trail this year, competing in two events so far.
Decembers Fallen was one of eight finalists to go head-to-head in the Cardinia Shire’s Battle of the Bands earlier this year.
The Cardinia battle was held on 27 June but Decembers Fallen failed to rank in the finals after being disqualified for swearing.
But front man Mitch Westwood said the battle scene wasn’t just about winning.
“It’s really just a way to get our name out there more than winning anything,” he said.
Cardinia youth officer Carrolyn Agius said despite the disqualification all bands demonstrated exceptional talents.
“We were impressed by all the young people who attended the event,” she said.
Since then Decembers Fallen has also competed in the City of Maroondah’s battle of the bands and is hoping to continue to grow.
Westwood said although battles were a great way to get noticed it wasn’t the ideal gig.
“There is a lot of pressure at battles because you are up against other bands that want to make a name too,” he said.
“But a gig is gig… we would rather play a crap gig than no gig at all.” Westwood said Decembers Fallen was now concentrating on making a name for themselves and dreams of winning a recording contract.