The search is on to find the best unsigned talent in Kent.

Musicians took to the stage on Monday for the first heat of the Battle of the Bands at the Tap n Tin, Railway Street, Chatham.

Forty-eight unsigned acts, ranging from folk to pop to heavy metal, are competing over the next eight weeks to win the coveted title of Top of the Tin.

First prize is £1,000 worth of studio recording time, a CD release with the Tap ‘n’ Tin recording company and a support slot with a secret headline act next April.

Among the bands hoping to scoop first place are The Suggestions, Krissy and the Jackdaws, The Chinese Fireworks Company, Needs Must, The Deccas and Tokyo Jo.

Last year’s competition spawned the Underground Heroes who have since toured with Kasabian and played at the Zoo Thousand Festival and Lounge on the Farm.

The first head to head takes place tonight between Take Courage, hailing from London and the South East, and Medway’s Milton Avenue.

At every heat, each act will have 40 minutes to win over the crowd, with the first playing from 8.50pm and the second following at 10pm.

The final, which takes place on March 28, 2009, will see the final three bands trying to impress a panle of five expert judges.

Entry to each heat costs £2.

UPCOMING HEATS

Tuesday, September 16 - Trial of Fifty vs The Lovedays

Monday, September 22 - Wayside Kings vs The Startover

Tuesday, September 23 - The Chinese Fireworks Company vs James Doyle

Saturday, September 27 - Eben vs Atlantic Hearts

Monday, September 29 - Springtide Cavalry vs Breaking the Day

Tuesday, September 30 - Avenge Thee vs Directions