Sennheiser is known worldwide for its premium quality audio products. In the last few years, they have expanded their reach to the ‘Sennheiser Top 50’. In India, the Sennheiser Top 50 Competition has brought bands from around the country competing against each other to be crowned the Top Band in India. In the first year 2014, it was Delhi based band ‘The Local Train’ taking the crown, followed by Mumbai based Progressive Rock band ‘Parvaaz’ taking the honors last year. This year, the competition has reached its final stage, and 4 bands have been selected out of 4 regions through the country, amongst 50 bands that they competed against. To round that off, this year’s jury comprises of Indian Music greats – Shankar, Ehsan and Loy, Papon and Raghu Dixit. Before the final takes place, let’s look at the 4 bands that have made it to the final round:

Knight Shades – North Zone Winners

Knight Shades are a Delhi based band formed in 2008. They’re veterans in the competition circuits around the country, winning close to a staggering number of 60. Their up-tempo, fast paced Rhythm and Blues style molded with Modern Rock and Roll gives their live performance quite the impact. They are known to have brilliant stage presence and it seems it was the combination of these two things that got them through. It’ll be interesting to see what they can offer on a big stage.

Avora Records – East Zone Winners

Avora Records was formed in 2013. The band was initially influenced by Punk and Indie Rock but has gradually branched out onto a mixture Jazz and Pop music elements. They have been a regular feature on Aizawl's most prominent gigs like The Bayberry Sessions, The Live Show and musically driven TV shows like ROAR TV! In April of 2017, the band won the state's most celebrated beat contest "The MZU ROCK FEST". The band has released 2 successful singles "Sides" and "Anna's Anthem", the latter of which was shortlisted by VH1.

The Family Cheese – West Zone Winners

The Family Cheese is an Indian Rock Fusion outfit based in Bombay. The trio started their journey in 2011 as music students in Chennai and right from the beginning have stood out for their interactive and seamless blend of Levity and Attitude in their performances. They are known best for taking their Indian influences and blending elements of ‘Konnakol’ amongst other classical Indian musical concepts into their rock compositions. They are also popular for breaking away into Psychedelic and free form improvisational sections. In 2016, "The Family Cheese" self-titled album was released with a video for hit single "Baw”. This dance between different genres might give them an edge over the other bands, as their style is pretty unique.

When Chai Met Toast – South Zone Winners

Hailing from Kerala, When Chai Met Toast has some really interesting music. The core of the music is made by Guitar Player Achyuth Jaigopal (also plays in Raghu Dixit Project) and Singer Ashwin Gopakumar. When Chai Met Toast takes inspiration from the lighter side of life to create music that is heart-warming, happy and smile worthy. With an amazing ability to connect with their audience and create a wonderful mood, they will surely be someone I’ll be expecting to take the grand prize.

The finals of the Sennheiser Top 50 will take place soon in Mumbai, India. It is interesting to see a world renowned International company coming into India, taking the concept of College Competitions and pushing it’s levels to a global stage. This definitely helps get the word out about the Independent Music Scene in India and the Industry in general as well.