Chrome Scene Music and Sensation of Falling tied for first place at the 15th annual Battle of the Bands on Wednesday, with each band splitting the prize money and agreeing to a co-headlining Legends show.

The four student bands that competed – Chrome Scene Music, The Nude Party, Sensation of Falling and Talking Box Co. – each put together a 20-minute set each in hopes of earning a headlining show at Legends next semester. Second place and a $75 prize went to Talking Box Co.

Judges evaluated each act based on criteria of originality, stage presence, crowd interaction and musical skill. The bands played to a responsive crowd of about 80 students and community members.

Chrome Scene Music kicked things off with an eclectic performance. The band weaved together funk and jam band sensibilities with a dose of hip-hop and had no problem getting the crowd’s attention.

Next up was a set from The Nude Party, featuring their drawling take on upbeat psychedelic blues. A number of the band’s loyal followers showed up and instantly turned the set into a free-for-all dance party.

Following them, three-member band Sensation of Falling brought what was probably the most energetic show of the night. Heads banged as the rock band let loose on a handful of tunes featuring heavy riffs.

To close up the night, Talking Box Co. offered a more indie rock sound. The set was well-composed and ended on an extended jam.

After the announcement of the winners, Sensation of Falling guitarist and bassist and junior economics major Dean Cates was ecstatic.

“I’m really pumped,” Cates said. “We’re super happy with what we put on.”

Chrome Scene Music member and junior computer information systems major Corey Hamilton could not stop smiling after the winners were announced.

“We had a lot of people that came out for us, and we owe [the energy level] to them,” Hamilton said.

Story: Sam Lineberger, A&E Reporter

Photo: Olivia Wilkes, Staff Photographer