The 2026 Battle of the Bands was able to build off of the previous events while still keeping what worked in years past.

  After competing against 12 other bands, the first-place prize of studio recording time at the local Harmony House Studios in Topsfield went to Klover, the rock band that won the title last year. Klover put on an energetic performance with fun lights and electric energy, even performing their own original music. The other performers also had fun and unique ways of electrifying the audience.

  “The performances were absolutely excellent,” said WBMT advisor Matthew Chadwick. “For me, the highlight of the evening was seeing the crowd go wild after each of the bands performed. It was also great to see the hard work of all these bands play off with their clean performances.”

  Chadwick remarked that one of his students said that it was just like a real concert, and he agreed with them. He cites the hard work of the bands as a main contributor to the quality of the show. 

  “I enjoyed all of the bands and the lighting,” said junior WBMT member Anders Raines. “The additional merch was also much better than last year.”

  Once again this year, WBMT sold Battle of the Bands shirts, this year featuring a design created by senior station manager London Thompson.

  The performances seem to be a standout. Many have been complimenting the various improvements over previous years, including the bands. 

 “I was told by a few people after the show about how they believed this was the best lineup so far, and that was something I was really glad to hear,” said Thomspon. 

  The team at the station was able to squeeze in some fun parts on top of the competition and awards.

  “I liked the trivia segment I did,” said Thompson. “It was really fun for me, running up and down the aisles, handing out candy, and writing my own questions.”

  While this year’s show was a great improvement, there are always ways to keep improving.

  “We had a really productive collaboration with Asher Conway and Delaney Ogden, who helped coordinate the lights for the show,” said Chadwick. “Next year, we hope to continue finding ways to engage the audience during the show and make transitions between the bands more seamless. Additionally, I would love to see even more bands participate.”

  With momentum and energy surrounding this event, WBMT’s Battle of the Bands is sure to continue on its upward trajectory for years to come.