The last of the Preliminary’s came and went with a bang, leaving the echo of thunderous applause reverberating through many an attendee’s head. The night saw the thrilling performances of three bands and three soloists. Music ranged from Maroon 5’s “Payphone” to Godsmack’s “Touche” and even ventured to some classic rock with Led Zepplin’s “Whole Lotta Love”. Barely a foot was put wrong:  not to disregard the previous rounds, but this one truly demonstrated the talent that Sri Lanka has to offer.

Sheeam (Winner of Onstage 2009) kicked off the night’s festivities, accompanied by a female companion, singing the Lionel Richie staple “Endless Love”. Whilst this song wasn’t exactly a tune to get people on their feet it certainly made them pay attention. The vocals were beautifully delivered and a great night of music was underway.

The first soloist up on stage, Rajitha Fernando, used his boundless energy and flawless voice to get the crowd grooving along with him. His first song turned out to be a fun cover of “Play That Funky Music White Boy”. “Without You” was his second track and confirmed him to be a great vocalist as well as a wonderful performer.

“Burn in Hell” by Twisted Sister & Dimmu Borgir was the first song of choice for Trojan Arc. A version of “Gold on the Ceiling” by the Black Keys was their second pick. The audience loved what they brought to the night and I did too. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen a frontman of a metal band wear a cowboy hat anyway.

One of the most memorable moments of the night was created not by the participants, but by Shevon and Akila, two members from the backing band. They sang a cover of Mr Big’s “To Be With You” that united all; old, young, man, woman; everyone sang and swayed to their rousing rendition of the song.

Getting back to the contestants, Mario a.k.a. the Karate Kid was up next.  He went out of his comfort zone with his first pick, Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida”, and unfortunately for him it showed. His voice is really nice but he could improve on his stage presence.  However, he changed my mind for the better with his next song choice; a fantastic rocky interpretation of Adele’s “Rumour Has It”.

“Sixteen Saltines” (an awesome version with splendid vocals) was the first song for Magician’s Tool Box. The second track performed was the original song “Hotshot”. One thing is for sure; this is one band who knows who they are, what their style is and what they want to give to the wider world. The crowd agrees with me by the way; it was difficult for the presenters to be heard over the residual cheers when the band exited the stage.

Stripping it down to just the vocals was the next contender, the charismatic Shane Von Vincent. He simply sat on a stool at the front of the stage and expertly delivered his two songs of choice; an acoustic version of “Payphone” and “Touche”. It’s got to be said; the audience really responded to him - especially the ladies.

A totally electrifying riff from the guitarist introduced the final band; Rivera, to the stage.  “A Whole Lotta Love” was what they sang, and was also what they received from the spectators. Their next song was “Set Fire to the Rain” which they totally rocked out in their own way.

For the Encore round both Shane and Magicians Toolbox got back up stage! The surprise double encore came about because as Rebecca said, “they were both so good”! Shane chose to sing his mellow version of Payphone again, totally drawing the audience in whilst Magicians Toolbox contrasted totally with an apparently unrehearsed (but excellent) version of Led Zepplin’s “Rock ‘n’ Roll”. Both hit new heights, literally, both their voices and performances were better than in the first two rounds. A brilliant end to a fun, music-packed night!

With the preliminary rounds completed we now have to look forward to the Semi’s! Who will make it? I’ll keep you posted!
 

TNL Onstage 2012 Preliminary Round 3 - Highlights