The Blues battle of the bands saw three Indian bands compete at the True School of Music for the ultimate title in Mumbai recently. Seeking to discover and encourage new and original Blues talent; the hunt received an overwhelming response, with entries from bands across the country. In its final stage, the Mahindra Blues Band Hunt saw live performances judged by highly acclaimed music directors, Ehsaan Noorani and Loy Mendonsa.

Three bands made it to the finals: RGT Trio – a Blues Band from Bangalore has a repertoire which is an amalgamation of Blues, Soul, Pop and Easy Listening Jazz; LB King based in Shillong perform a wide variety of Blues the sound of Blue Temptation also from Shillong is heavily influenced by the emerging scene in the country and has modern elements.

On the announcement of the winners, Loy Mendonsa said, “Year after year, the Mahindra Blues Band Hunt brings Blues bands from across the country to the forefront, giving them a platform to showcase their talent. This year, Blue Temptation rose as the shining star among the three skilful bands that performed soulful music at the competition. It is a delight to see the rising talent in our country with each passing year.”

Ehsaan Noorani added, “The stage witnessed extremely artistic bands perform to win the 2019 Mahindra Blues Band Hunt title. It was a treat for us to listen to great music and judge an event that showcases tremendous talent. The winner of last year’s competition, Arinjoy Trio is performing along with other international artists at Mahindra Blues Festival 2019.”

Blue Temptation having won the Band Hunt, will perform on Day 1 and 2 of the Mahindra Blues Festival; Asia’s largest blues festival. Others slated for the 9th and 10^th of February 2019 that will steal your heart are blues experts like Beth Hart, Charlie Musselwhite, Sugaray Rayford, Brandon Santini, along with Arinjoy Trio representing the Indian act. They have come together to present a high octane, yet soulful and exquisite evening for Mumbai audiences.

Jay Shah, Vice President, Head - Cultural Outreach, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, "The Mahindra Blues Band Hunt, an extension of the Mahindra Blues Festival is yet another way in which we make a positive impact in our communities through programs of cultural outreach. The winning band chosen by the discerning ears of Ehsaan and Loy - Blue Temptation, will perform at the Festival, a platform that has won the hearts of very loyal Blues lovers over the years.”