An unsigned Brighton band has been shortlisted for the chance to perform live for leading figures from the music industry on the terrace of the House of Commons.
Echo Rain are among the five finalists in the Best Live Band category in the Rock the House competition organised by Hove Conservative MP Mike Weatherley.
The four-piece act, who describe their music as a mixture of pop punk, progressive and rock, play in the final at a pub in Balham on the afternoon of Thursday 30 June.
The same evening the winning band will play a set on the Commons terrace, which overlooks the Thames and is a popular watering hole for MPs.
Mr Weatherley set up the competition to raise awareness of intellectual property rights and the value of live music venues.
The two issues are among those that he has spoken out about since he became an MP.
He said: “I’m so pleased about how popular the competition has turned out to be in its first year.
“Bands and venues from across the country have taken part and the quality of entries has been extremely high.
“Rock the House has managed to achieve its goals of raising intellectual property awareness and promoting live music in a fun way.
“I know that whoever wins and has the chance to play on the House of Commons terrace is definitely not going to forget this once in a lifetime opportunity.
“People from across the music industry will be mixing with artists and MPs.
“It’s going to be a great party in this truly remarkable setting.”
Great Idea and good luck to all the finalists.