Bands for Vans

Yeah, it's another battle of the bands. And yeah, it's at the snuggest lil' venue in Broward, Alligator Alley. But rather than fight for cut-rate studio time, a chrome-plated trophy, or dubious bragging rights (because who judges these things, anyway?), the winner of this particular sonic imbroglio will ascend the stage at the Pompano Beach Amphitheater in early August for an undoubtedly high-profile gig. The Vans Warped Tour '05 Battle of the Bands will anoint one South Florida group champion of the local scene and award it an opening slot during Vans' local tour stop. Even if it's at noon, before anyone shows up, a gig like that looks great on a band résumé. The battle runs the final three Wednesdays and Thursdays of July, and a king will be crowned at the finals on July 30. Contact Kilmo at Alligator Alley to sign up. Whether you're pop-punk, dance-punk, skate-punk, or punk-punk, bring your A game. This one's gonna be a slugfest.

The Vans Warped Tour '05 Battle of the Bands starts at 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, at Alligator Alley, 1321 E. Commercial Blvd., Oakland Park. Tickets cost $6, and the show is all-ages. Call 954-771-2220.