DISCLAIMER:
Hello, chapter 29 is here. The new episode of the war of the Bands is about to start? What will be the theme this time? What will B do about Damian's proposal? And who'll win and who'll lose the challenge?
Find out next, here on War of the Bands.
And remember, if you like the story, please leave a review. That way, I can know what do you think and what you are expecting to happen. Or at least mark the story as a favorite, so I know you are enjoying it. And now, let me answer some reviews from the last chapter.
Akka777: Yes, now B had a problem, so the question is what will happen next. After all, B was the last to join the band.
Danicus Green: Yes, aside from the external dangers fro the band, now there is a possible conflict growing inside it. We will have to wait and see what happen with this love polygon.
And lastly, an announcement. A friend is organizing the 2020 Gwent Week, from October 18 to 24. Any person interested can participate. The information is on withjust-a-bite tumblr com . You can write stories, or make art, or just spread the word about it.
Total Drama belongs to Fresh TV and their creators, and associates companies. Any song used on this fic belongs to their original creators.
I don't own anything from the properties used in this fic
Official Movie Soundtrack - Track 01
Last time on War of the Bands, we made a tribute to one of the most awesome rock British bands of all time, Queen. Using the great songs composed by the band as their arsenal, our five bands make a no quarrel battle showing lots of talent and skills.
In the end, Black Unicorn and H-tonics emerge as the winners of the round, while Dead Bodies, one of the public favorites, become a casualty in the conflict, their flag falling over their still-warm bodies.
This week the remaining bands will have put all their talent and skill at odds as we advance into the final half of the competition. Who will take the glory, and who will return home with their flag? Let's find it now. It's time for Light, Camera, The War of the Bands.
"Hello again, Canada! My name is Topher Secrest, and I welcome you to the new and exciting episode or WAR OF THE BANDS. We searched all the country for the best juvenile bands. After an 88 groups audition, we select the best of the best to compete on 7 rounds of challenges to find who'll win the brag rights to be the Best Band of Canada and a take home a prize of 100,000 dollars," said Topher, as the crowd wildly cheered.
The young host pointed to the 4 remaining flags over the stage. "In today's challenge, our teams will mix two arts[1] in one great performance. Choosing a song from a movie soundtrack and performing it for our judges. And this time, only one team can win the challenge and that sweet immunity, while another band will see their flag fall to the ground and will be out of this competition."
"Now let's introduce the first band that will perform tonight. A dark horse and the only band that is not from the central Canadian area, they mix Latin rhythms, a beautiful voice, and an extreme rock accompaniment. They're Devil's Muse," exclaimed Topher as the screen began to show images from the Quebecker band.
B left on the dressing room a heavy backpack he was carrying from Justin's car and glared at the TV.
"You really don't like Devil's Muse, right B? I know what you mean, but you have to admit that Taylor is pretty hot," said the Codemeister winking.
The silent man blinked a couple of times. It's clear that Cody was almost right, but his friend DIDN'T knew what B meant when he glared at the Devil's Muse, or rather when he glared at Alejandro.
"Oh, Cody, I did not know Taylor was the kind of princess you found attractive. I must confess that I am surprised by this revelation," said Ella with wide eyes.
Cody blanched, "of course not Ella, it was a joke, only a joke, right guys," he added, looking at Trent, Duncan, and B with puppy's eyes, asking for their help.
B nodded, supporting his friend, as Trent added, "yes, Ella. You know Cody is a prankster, don't take him too seriously."
"Yes, Codster, in joking. Now tell us, what kind of girl you find hot?" asked Duncan to mock his friend. Ella looked intently at Cody, curious about what kind of woman he considered pretty.
"Look, the interview is beginning," said Cody, blushing, trying to divert the attention from him to the show.
War of the bands 5th round first band interview: Devil's Muse.
On the screen of the dressing room appeared the image of Topher giving the envelope with this week's challenge to Alejandro and Taylor. The singer was yawning and filing her nails as the Spaniard took the envelope and ripped it.
"We need to perform a song that appears on a Movie soundtrack. It doesn't matter if it's the main song or a minor song, but it must be from a commercially distributed film," read Alejandro loudly. He smiled, thinking of many songs that they could perform on this challenge.
"Well, if we are done, let's go home, Alejandro. I can really use one of your messages right now. My body is so STIFF after singing all those songs," said Taylor, hugging Alejandro's arm.
Alejandro blushed. He was not used to be on the other side of the flirting. "Please seƱorita, we are on tv, wait until we are at home."
The scene then changed to a fancy record studio-like room. Alejandro was talking with Rock, who was playing his guitar while listening to the Spaniard. Meanwhile, Taylor was in a corner sitting in a fancy chair and drinking a glass of water while Spud was sleeping at the drums.
After that, the scene showed the interviewer talking with Alejandro. The Spaniard was sweating but smiling, his hair done in a small ponytail, "Today Taylor is tired, so she asked me to speak with you on her behalf. She loves her fans, but even she has moments in which she prefers to stay away from the spotlight. So today, we decide to let her rest. Especially because she put a lot of effort these past days on the rehearsal."
There is some loud whining heard in the background. The voice sounded like Taylor's. Alejandro just rolled his eyes and forced a smile. "I know we are already there, we just need to keep doing what we do, and we will win the contest. Yes, some members of my team are nerviosos[2] about being in the chopping block last weak, so on the next challenge, we need to go out there and show the world we are the best."
The image then changed to Rock, who was smiling awkwardly, "When we started the band, it was all fun, like dlang dlang dland dvvvvv dvvvv (Rock also mimick and air guitar) and now is more like dling dling zwaa(more air guitar.) All the performances were one blast after another, but these last weeks not so much. Al put too much effort, and me and Spud respect that, but Taylor rarely sang in the practices anymore, only on the show. She was much funnier at the beginning."
The image then returned to Alejandro, showing a smug smile. "The band is doing great, and we will show the rest of the country how we can win this competition, and that no band or singer can beat us. The future is now. I don't care about Princess' Court or those garage bands of the Drama brothers. Devil's Muse will end at the top."
War of the bands 5th challenge First band: Devil's Muse.
"Well, it seems not all is plays and games in the Devil's Muse. Can they go beyond their internal problems and perform a song that deserves winning this challenge? I really want to find out. For their performance, they choose the song from John N. Smit's 1995 film Dangerous Minds, Gangsta's Paradise by Coolio featuring L.V[3]. Let's hear them," said Topher, going down the stage as the crowd cheered.
The band went into the stage and swiftly took their places. Alejandro, Spud, and Rock were wearing black suits with white shirts, and Alejandro and Rock had their hair in ponytails. Taylor was wearing a black one-piece dress to the knees and a black shirt with a low neck. The Spaniard played the keyboard while Rock, Spud, and Taylor were on their usual instruments (electric guitar, drums, and vocals.)
Alejandro started the song playing the beats with the keyboard instead of using an orchestra, Rock and Spud entering a moment later, and Taylor singing in a strong and confident voice.
For the chorus, Alejandro sang instead of Taylor, playing and singing simultaneously, showing his talent one more time. As the song didn't have solos, Spud and Rock could concentrate only on the accompaniment. In the end, the song and performance were powerful and enthralling, especially the duet between Taylor and Alejandro.
After the performance, the public was cheering and clapping as Topher returned to the stage. "Wow, love it or hate it, one must admit that the variety of styles and instruments used by Devil's Muse is awesome. Now let's hear the feedback of our judges."
"First we have the girlfriend of Canada, 8-weeks number one on the Billboard, and already reach her first platinum record, her Hotness, Lindsay," said Topher as the crowd wildly cheered.
Lindsay smiled and waved at the public before starting. "Thanks, Ryan. I enjoy the performance and how they combined their techniques. I never watch the original movie or heard the original song, but I love this one. The only problem is the same as the other times, I don't feel the same bond between the band members and the singer. It's like everyone is doing their own thing, and that is a little sad in a music band."
Topher nodded and continued with the presentations. "Thanks, Lindsay, lovely feedback as always. Also with us is a star with 20-years of experience. Singer, actor, model and host, Mister Camp TV and candidate for man of the year in 2007, Chriiiiis McLean!"
Chris smiled, this week the public seemed to be cheering for him more than booing. "Thank you, thank you. I also love it. Tonight you really make a great performance. The strings, the drums, the voice, all were awesome. Taylor, you were wonderful out there, not only the voice, the presence, this must be your best performance to date. I'm eager to watch how much more you can improve during the show. Well, that's if you are not eliminated on this round," said the judge as a sadistic smile appeared on his face.
"Wow, that was a very positive feedback from Mister McLean. Last but not least, we have the living legend, platinum record collector, DJ, VJ, and a man on his own League, Master N.H. Chef," said Topher as the crowd cheered and whistled at the giant man.
Chef waved at the public and then look intensely at the band. "I look at you, and I'm surprised. Technically you are awesome. Every performance, you improve your game and show us a lot of talent and guts. But also each new performance, I feel the gap between you is bigger and bigger. It's like Devil's Muse featuring Taylor instead of her being the leading performer of your band. It's a shame because if you continue this way, you will encounter a wall, sooner or later."
"Thanks, Chef, and thanks, Devil's muse. Now let's welcome our next band," said Topher as the band went out of the stage. Taylor picked her custom made mic and was insistently saying something to Alejandro. The guy giving his back to the audience, not showing his face as he listened to the singer.
While this happened, Duncan was texting on his phone, B looked at him, more curious about what was the delinquent doing than the interview with the next band.
"What's the matter, Bumblebee? I am texting to a wrong number," said Duncan, smirking.
B smiled at him, understanding the meaning behind his words. While Cody, Trent, and Ella looked at the delinquent with puzzled expressions.
"Duncan, you cannot do that. It is bothersome for the owner of the wrong number," said Ella with a slight frown.
"Yes, Duncan, don't be a jerk," said Cody supporting the Fairy Princess, Trent nodding in agreement.
The punk sighed and glanced at them. "Is not a real wrong number, is a joke between Bumblebee and me, right Big guy?"
But the silent man was with his head resting on his own shoulder, feigning he was asleep.
"HEY!?" Duncan glared at B. The rest of the band looked at the delinquent, shaking their heads, condemning Duncan's pranks.
War of the bands 5th round second band interview: H-Tonics
On the screen, Topher greeted Harold and Heather, giving them the envelope with the challenge. The queen bee took the envelope and opened it, while Harold looked at her with disappointment, he also wanted to open the envelope.
"The next challenge is a song from a movie, mmhhh! There is a lot of songs to choose," said Heather putting a finger on her cheek.
"No, dear. There is only ONE song we can perform on this challenge. Only one," said Harold, the light reflecting on his glasses as he smirked.
"Really?" asked Heather, folding her arms and looking at him, raising an eyebrow.
Harold chuckled. "Completely! Trust me, Hearther. With this song, we will surely win this round."
The image then changed to the H-tonics rehearsal. Harold and Mike were sweating and drinking from plastic bottles, while Heather was looking at them frowning. Beardo and Max were practicing the song, making some beatbox on the other side of the room.
The interviewer then changed to Heather, that tossed her hair. "Well, this challenge H-Bomb was adamant about the song and the performance. I tried to persuade him, but there are times when he is stubborn and will not hear anyone. Sometimes I think I am the only one who takes the band seriously, gosh," the Queen Bee eyes went wide, blushing as soon as she realized what she had just said.
She shook her head and, making a forced smile, resumed the interview. "But we still have a chance, we have a lot of talent on the band, so even if I'm not sure about this song, H-Bomb and the rest of us will still make a great performance. So don't think this will be the last of us. But we would have won the round much easier if he just listened to me."
The interview then changed to Mike, he is sweating and with the hair slick back. "This time, I will be in the spotlight. It is a lot of work, but I love H-Bomb idea, and when the Circumstance loves something, he goes all the way into it. So stay tuned, babes, because this Friday's performance, we will go on fire."
Then the image went back to Heather. "About the other bands, there is no one with enough talent to beat us. Taylor has a great voice but is stupid, and Courtney is a genius, but her band lacks ambition. So the prize is as good as won. The Black unicorn? Is there a band with that name on the competition? Sorry, I don't remember them."
Duncan went out of the room, as the rest of the band looked at the screen.
"That Heather had some nerve. We eat together for more than 6 months, and Harold was part of our band. And now she feigns she doesn't remember us," said Cody folding his arms.
Ella blushed, twiddling her fingers. "Maybe she is just forgetful. I sometimes also forget about important things or the names of some friends. Like the time I forgot Scott's name and was just avoiding him because I was just too ashamed to ask him his name again."
"No, Ella, she is not forgetful. She is just like that. Please, if you ever talk to Heather, don't trust her," said Trent with a sad expression on his face.
War of the bands 5th challenge second band: H-Tonics
"Well, it looks like H-tonics has prepared a surprising performance. I am eagerly waiting to see it. The song is from the Jared Hess' 2004 movie Napoleon Dynamite, Jamiroquai song Canned Heat[4]. Let's welcome them with a big hand," said Topher as he left the stage to the Acapella band.
The five members of the band went into the stage dressed all in jeans and white t-shirts. The shirts had the legend Vote H-tonics in orange letters and also were wearing black boots. Heather was wearing the same outfit, but instead of pants, she wore denim shorts.
Harold and Mike stood on the center of the stage, their hands on their pockets, while Heather, Max, and Beardo stood at the side. Max was doing the percussions and Beardo the strings, while Heather singed.
Harold and Mike made some sounds like the trumpets, but their role in the performance was dancing[5]. At first, they only move a little in their place, while one of them made the beatbox effects. Then they began to move more freely, moving their hips and arms, increasing the tempo with the rhythm of the music.
The dance was not only well performed, but their movements were skillfully synchronized. Even when they twirled and pulled their arms in the air, or they moved across the stage, they seemed to move at the same time. In the dance, they used their thin and long legs and arms to their advantage, making their movements more exaggerate as if they floated on the stage.
The audience began to cheer at them, clapping wildly at the performance even before the song ended, as Topher went back to the stage.
"That was AWESOME, this 5th round is crazy, ladies and gentleman. All the bands are throwing their best at the stage. Let's hear what the opinion of our judges," said the host, the public still cheering.
The first to talk was Chris, looking at them with and unimpressed smile. "Good, I mean good, not the best, but I would commend you because this time you change the spotlight. It was good but still don't move me, I want to feel excited, and the performance was just ok. And I would prefer to look Q-Bee dancing instead of H-Bomb."
Then was the turn of Chef, smiling so wide that he showed his gold teeth. "I like it. It was a great song and a great performance, especially for a challenge about movies. It felt natural, the choreography was good, and I have a good time watching this. Also, I didn't know H-Bomb had those movements on him. And taking out him and the Circumstance of the main song force Q-Bee and Dr. E-vil to do their best, so good job."
Lastly, it was the turn of Lindsay, that nodded and smiled excitedly. "I must say that it was a great performance. How Chomb and Ciro dance in the middle of the stage while beatboxing was wild, like wild wild. The dance has a lot of energy, and I can't believe all the song was interpreted only with voices, it was very entertaining and surprising to see."
"Well, there you have it! Another astounding performance by our only and best A Capella group, H-tonics. Thank you, guys. Now let's call into the stage our next band.
Meanwhile, some minutes before, Duncan was on the aisle, waiting for someone. He was nervous, something unusual in him, and more when he heard their voice behind him.
"I read your message, I hope it's important, is almost our turn to go into the stage," the person said.
The delinquent ran his hand through his mohawk and looked at his guest with a sad frown.
"It will be only a moment, princess, I promise," said the delinquent smirking.
If he really wanted to perform tonight at his best, he needed to talk with her. There is no way he could go into the stage without talking with Courtney.
[1] A classification of The Arts traditionally considering 6 Arts: Architecture, Sculpture, Painting, Literature, Music and Performing. In XX century, Film was included as the 7th art. There are other classifications, but in the story I use the classic one.
[2]Literally means nervous, but in the Spanish context is more like anxious.
[3] The version performed here is a reduced version because there was no way they could bring the orchestra and is based principally on the live version performed at the Grammies in 1996 and for the female voice, the performance of Larisa Ciortan for the voice, Romanian edition.
[4]For this one, I used as inspiration the performance of Top of the tops 1999
[5] The choreography is the dancing scene on Napoleon Dynamite movie. If you can, watch the movie. If not, look for the dance scene. It is great.
The fifth challenge is ongoing, and there are still 2 performances to be done. What song will the Black unicorn play? And what will happen between Duncan and Courtney? Find out in the next chapter.
I have a lot of fun choosing the songs for this challenge. Movie soundtracks are awesome, some are songs made for the movie, and others just paid to be used on the movie, but all end so intimately intertwined with each other that choosing a song is like reading a movie catalog. And yes, my favorite part to write in this episode was Mike and Harold Dance.
And as always, thanks for reading and I hope you like it
