March 11, 2009 > Bands4Bands Awards Bands4Bands Awards By Mona Shah In the age of "American Idol" and "You Tube" where competitiveness and proliferation reign supreme, who would think that a group of musicians would help their own? But that is exactly what Bands4Bands does. A Bay Area coalition of bands, their mission is to help "network by performances." Each year, Bands4Bands recognizes outstanding members at a party filled with musical performances and special guests. It marks the day that the organization was formed. Pete Schaaphok, founder of Bands4Bands says, "I think it is nice to recognize your peers that you love and respect. Call me crazy, but the Grammies weren't calling!" This year the award show will be held on Saturday, March 14 at 7 p.m. at The Englander in San Leandro. A special 50/50 raffle with cash prizes is planned to help out Will Johnson, a sick Board member. For the past nine years, Bands4Bands has continued to provide band members and local fans an environment that values music, supports performers, and extends friendship to all those who share their vision. Schaaphok has always been immersed in music, and is currently a drummer for Mystic Rage. He was motivated to start the organization because of the negative competition he felt existed between bands. He recalls how, during larger shows featuring multiple bands, members of respective bands hardly knew each other. As a member of Bands4Bands, there are many resources to draw from and experiences to share. "You know, it's just not some band just floating along. You get a lot of direction, a lot of help, by being in this organization." Member meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at The Englander in San Leandro. Last year the organization gained non-profit status and plans to expand with music scholarships and lessons for kids. This promises to be a fun event with an All-Star jam planned after the ceremonies. Awards are presented for several categories. A partial list of the nominees is: Best New Band: MCP Stunt Double A Place to Call Home Hemmorhage Lick Michael Musgrove Analog Soul Best CD: Roadside Attraction "Raising a Rockus" Tara Tinsley "Sail Away" Six Ounce Gloves "Timing is Everything" In the Absence "Avenues with Anatomies" Mudsoc "Road" Age of Aggression Best Song: Tara Tinsley 'Where to' Stone Vengeance 'Brains, Balls, and Blood' Nockabeshi 'Keep Ya Hands Up' In the Absence 'Avenues with Anatomies' Thread 'Kick the Habit' Best Band: Stone Vengeance Mystic Rage Future Tripp In the Absence Sol Innocense Hemlock Mudsoc Thread Funkanauts The Dukes For a full listing and more information, visit www.bands4bands.com. Band4bands Awards Saturday, March 14 7 p.m. The Englander 101 Parrott St., San Leandro (510) 278-9695 www.bands4bands.com Free