One of the best underage band competitions in the country is set to commence once again this weekend and PubliCola has a pair of tickets to give away. The ninth annual Sound Off! competition is happening at the Experience Music Project over the next four consecutive Saturdays. It's a unique opportunity for local musicians, 21 and under, to play all original music and compete against each other for a grand prize.

This isn't just kiddie rock, most of the bands that participate in Sound Off! go on to make a solid name for themselves locally if not nationally. Just in the past week and a half alone, I've written about two Sound Off! alum, Dyme Def and Sol , meanwhile groups like the Lonely H, School Yard Heroes, and Natalie Portman's Shaved Head all forged legitimate careers after participating.

If you want to check out the show this Saturday evening, email [email protected] with the words Sound Off! in the subject head and and a winner will be chosen at random tomorrow.

Sound Off! takes place at the EMP, 325 Fifth Ave. N. Regular admission is $10 for adults, $7 for students, and the show starts at 8 p.m.