DISCLAIMER:
Greetings. Chapter 41 is here. The final episode of War of the Bands is here, and instead of challenges, we will have a festival of music with many surprises. What will happen next? And did someone had still a trick under their sleeves? Find out here on the second part of the Grand finale of War of the Bands.
And as always, if you like the story, remember to mark it as a favorite, or if you feel fancy, leave a review with your thoughts. This helps me to improve this story and also future stories. Now before starting, let me answer past week reviews.
Total Simaniac: Thanks for your reviews. I also enjoy a lot developing Nemma. I think they work better as slow interesting in each other than the first love approach.
Total Drama belongs to Fresh TV, Corus Corporation, their creators, and associates companies. Any song used on this fic belongs to their original creators.
War of the Bands - Final - take 2
The final day of the War of the Bands has begun, a music festival in which the former groups will perform again, while the public vote for their favorite from the 2 finalists to win this battle of skills and sounds.
Four bands have already performed, including the Black Unicorn, who played an original song composed by Trent, but this will be enough to surpass the Acapella band of his former bandmate Harold? Stay tuned to find out here, in the dramatic last episode of The War of the Bands.
"Hello dear viewers, and welcome back to the great and astounding final of your favorite show, the War of the Bands. As you already know, I'm Chris McLean and will be co-hosting this episode, as judges are not needed anymore," said Chirs winking at the camera.
In the dressing room, the change of host was received with skepticism.
"Chris McLean, really?" asked Cody looking at the screen, narrowing his eyes.
"Yes, I know he may be a meanie as a judge, but I am sure he will do a wonderful job as a host. After all, he was a famous host in the past," said Ella, her eyes sparkling as she watched the famous host on the screen.
"Sorry, Ella, but you say that because you never watch any of his former shows," said Trent sighing. Duncan and B nodding behind him.
War of the bands Final Xtra presentation 4: Dead Bodies
"You know, I never like these guys during the show, and it's quite the irony I'll introduce them, but such is life. You surely remember this band from Eastern Canada, Dead Bodies. Even if I don't like their aesthetic or their guts, they can really play. So let's give a Big hand to Marylin, Reaper, Pixie Corpse, Ennui, and Gwen," said Chris as they entered the stage.
"They choose to perform the song 'Make a Move[1]' form Icon for Hire. Let them show us that they deserve to be a favorite of the audience," said Chris going down the stage
"I hate that guy," said Reaper as he took his guitar.
"What a surprise, you hate everybody, Reaper," replied Marylin sticking out her tongue.
Pixie corpse narrowed her eyes, talking in a cold tone. "Guys, be serious, or I'll have to curse you all."
"We're always dead serious," said Ennui in his deep, monotone voice.
"Well, if you can joke, then we're ready, let's do this," said Gwen, hitting her drumsticks together 3 times.
The formation was their usual, Marylin in vocals, Pixie corpse on the bass, Reaper on the guitar, Ennui on keyboards, and Gwen on the drums.
Just starting the performance, Gwen showed her skills in the drums, then the rest entered in order bass, guitar, and voice, with Ennui, including the song's effects. Marylin was singing and jumping around the stage, warming the audience, in which Crimson, Ennui's girlfriend, was almost cheering.
Then Reaper took the solo and showed his skills as a guitarist and how his rib had already healed. Marylin kept singing with more energy, and the audience cheering loudly at the band. At the end Gwen ad-libbed a drum solo to close the song, which only increased the cheering from the crowd.
"What can I say? That was AWESOME! Dead Bodies showed again that even if I don't like them personally, I can like their performance," said Chris clapping as the band returned backstage.
"Pasty was great as usual, don't you think, Elvis?" said Duncan with a smirk.
"She's always wonderful," replied Cody before Trent answered, his eyes sparkling.
"Tonight, Gwen and the Dead Bodies were at their finest. If Reaper hadn't been attacked, they would have reached farther in the show," said Trent, frowning while thinking.
B clapped to draw their attention, then shook his head, making a double thumb down, folded his arms, and nodded.
"I also agree with B. It was unfortunate that Dead Bodies lose back then, but we would not have lost against them," said Ella trying to frown in an angry expression but looking too cute to be intimidating.
All the Black Unicorn laughed as the next team went onto the stage.
War of the bands Final Second Finalist: H-Tonics
"Let's forget about those who lost, and let focus on who is really important," said Chris chuckling at his own joke. "They're the second finalist of the show, representing Western Canada. No one expected that an A capella band would make it to the finals until you hear their performances."
Chris made a small pause to increase tension and continued. "Formed by former Drama Brother H-Bomb and the King of Beatboxing Boss B-rdo, they're one of the favorites since their appearance in the auditions on Calgary."
"And they'll have to contend in a fratricide battle against H-Bomb's former Drama Brothers' bandmates. Who will be the best of the best? Of course, you, our viewers, have the last word. Remember to enter our site or download the app to vote for your favorite."The host then took out his mobile and showed the app.
"But before hearing their performance. Let's see who is who in the band in this short interview in which we'll find who are the others besides Boss B-rdo and H-bomb." Said Chris as the image then went to the screen, which showed the A capella group's interview.
The first member to appear on the screen was Harold. He was wearing black sunglasses and made some beatboxing before greeting the audience. "Yo, I'm H-Bomb. I am the lead and second vocalist of the band."
"When Q-Bee and I decide to form H-Tonics, our idea was to create a new musical experience without instruments and show the world our mad skills. I was lucky to find these amazing artists who share my artistic vision. Beware world, because H-tonics is on the house," said Harold making some rap moves and folding his arms.
The second interviewee was Heather, looking down at the camera. "Hello, I'm Q-Bee, the main vocalist of H-tonics, and also the one that had the idea to create the band."
"This show is only a stepstone in our way to success. H-bomb is one of the best artists of our time, and this is the platform that will launch him to fame, and of course, I'll be at his side," said Heather smiling smugly at the camera.
Then the image changed to Beardo. He began to make the sound effects of a pump and scratching as if he had a turntable in front of him, then he made the effect of sudden stopping and turning off the machine.
He took a big breath and smiled at the camera, talking in a slow and paused voice, "He-e-llo I am Be-ar-do, and I'm proud to be part of H-tonics. These guys rocks and are the best friends you can have. Boyah."
The image then changed to Mike, who was smiling sheepishly, showing the gap between his teeth. "Hello there, I'm the Circumstance, and with my voice, I perform the bass for the group."
"I'm from Calgary, where I began to beatbox on youtube, that's where Harold and Heather found me and invite me to the group, which has been an honor. I want to use this opportunity to thank my girlfriend Zoey, who had supported me since the beginning. I love you, babe," said Mike blushing, sending a kiss to the camera.
Zoey, who was in the crowd, blushed and smiled, her eyes filled with tears.
Finally, on the screen appeared Max with a stern expression. "Is it on? Alright. GREETINGS viewers, I AM DOCTOR E-VIL, the evilest singer in this competition. My beatbox skills are so vile, so dangerous, that H-tonics begged for me to perform with them, as the percussions."
Max then looked at the camera with a wicked expression. "What they don't know is that I'm only using their lousy band as part of my greater goal, TAKING OVER THE WORLD, GWA-HA-HA-HA." said the purple-haired guy, laughing evilly. Then he again faced the camera with a worried expression, "they'll not see this, right?"
Chris laughed as the interview ended."Hahaha, sorry, Dr. E-Vil, but they will see it. After their introduction is time to let them perform, they choose a hit from Coldplay, 'Viva la Vida[2]', let's hear them." He added as he went out of the stage
"Well, let's show them who is the best band of Canada," said Heather, adjusting the crown that she was wearing as part of his outfit for the song.
"You don't need to tell us what we already know. It's time to show MY genius, ehem, I mean our genius," said Max, who accidentally said what he was thinking.
"I'm proud you decide to sing as Mike instead of as Vito. You have grown a lot, my young Padawan[3]," told Harold to Mike, patting his shoulder.
"Thanks, Harold, I'll do my best," replied Mike, still tempted to take out his shirt. But he had to be strong, not only for him but also for those who support him.
Beardo stood in front of the public and then looked back at his band. Heather made a smirk and nodded, so Beardo began to beatbox the initial chorus of the song.
Harold then entered, accompanying Beardo singing in the intro ('oh, oh, oh, oh, oh,'), making the beatbox sounding completely natural, Max doing the percussion and Mike doing the bass complemented the melody.
But this time, Heather stole the show, her singing voice, and the passion she had. It was as if the song was written for her. She even changes the lyrics to say Queen instead of King. With the crown on her head, you can almost imagine the character in the song.
The public cheered wildly as they ended the song, Zoey being the loudest. Chris went back to the scenario, clapping.
"Bravo! This was a great performance. These guys really know what they are doing. But even if that is MY opinion, YOURS is more important, dear viewers. Remember to enter the site or app, and vote, the winner of the war is decided by you," said Chris as H-tonics leave the stage.
"They're great," said Cody, smirking.
"You wouldn't expect any less from Harold," replied Trent, nodding.
Duncan stood up and went out of the dressing room without saying a word.
Ella smiled, not noticing the delinquent absence. "That is just wonderful. Because even if we lose, it will be against a band that also deserves to win."
"Err, yes, but I hope we win the show," said Cody, Trent, and B, nodding with him.
Meanwhile, Duncan was on the aisle. He was waiting for someone, but while looking around, he saw Princess' Court and decided to walk toward them.
"Good Luck out there, princess, no that you need it," said Duncan, smirking.
"Duncan!?" said Courtney, looking surprised at the delinquent. "Thanks, I didn't expect you'll come to wish us good luck." As she talked with him, the rest of her band went before her onto the stage, leaving them alone.
Duncan shrugged, winking. "You know me, I like to be unpredictable."
"Be honest, you didn't come for me, right?" said Courtney, raising an eyebrow.
"I didn't come only for you," replied Duncan as he found the person he wanted to see.
"Well, we need to talk about us. Are you ok if we meet…" said Courtney, but Duncan was running away, cutting her off.
"Sorry, Princess. Let's talk later," shouted Duncan while pursuing his target.
"You're a lost cause," said Courtney smiling, she needed to concentrate on the show. There will be time later to chew him out.
War of the bands Final Xtra presentation 5: Princess' Court
"An the next band is one of the favorites to win the show, that sadly, hehe, didn't make it," said Chris, his laugh contrasting with his discourse.
"They are from Eastern Canada, one of the teams with better technical skills and talents. They performed some of the best songs on the show and are here tonight for a last one. Let's give a Big Hand to Emma, Dave, Scarlett, and Courtney, The Princess' Court. Who, of course, choose a classic 'Stairway to Heaven' by Led Zeppelin[4]," said Chris while going down the stage.
The four band members came onto the stage. Dave was carrying a two neck guitar, Emma standing at the Keyboard, Scarlett at the drums, and Courtney with her Electric Violin.
Dave adjusted his custom guitar nervously. "I hope this goes well."
"It will, it's a personal challenge, but we practice so much. It will be ok," said Emma flexing her fingers.
"Even then, there is a high percentage that this doesn't end as in the simulations. The error rate is among 4-5%," said Scarlett adjusting her glasses.
Courtney took a deep breath and smiled. "What Scarlett tries to say is to keep calm and enjoy. Let's show them what we're made of."
Emma began to play the keyboard, and then Dave joined with the guitar and Courtney with the violin, alternating the violin to help Dave and the singing. Courtney's voice was very different from Robert Plant, who she didn't try to imitate. Instead, she tried to sing in her own style.
At four minutes Scarlett began to play. The song was great, and even if technically Dave had some trouble keeping with it, Courtney's violin compensated for it. The mix of violin and guitar made the solo a new and different experience.
After 8 minutes the crowd was standing, clapping, and cheering. Courtney smiled and bowed, joyful about their performance.
Chris went onto the stage with a big smile on his face. "And why these guys aren't on the final? The judges must have been deaf, hehe," said the host laughing at his own joke, because he was one of the judges.
"And remember, tonight winner will be determined by your votes, so go into the website or the app and vote. Also, we have merchandise of all the bands, so if you love Princess' Court go into the web store and pick a t-shirt or a cup. They are rad," added the host as the band went backstage.
Meanwhile, Duncan had caught up with the person he wanted to talk to and took her to a more private area.
"I hope it's important. I have to prepare for that pathetic performance we must play with your band," said Heather scowling.
Duncan smirked. She was just as arrogant as he expected. "It's just a moment, gorgeous, so don't worry."
"I'm going back. I have no time to waste with the likes of you," replied Heather raising her face and turning away.
"You are? So you don't care. I told your band you tried to bribe our drummer?" asked Duncan with an evil smile on his face.
Heather blanched but soon recovered her composure. "I don't know what you are talking about."
"No? It's strange, that small kid, Damian, he looked just like your little brother," said Duncan, who was enjoying the situation.
She tossed her hair with disdain. "I hope you have some kind of evidence that supports you. This is some serious accusations."
"Oh, maybe I have a little something," replied the delinquent taking out his phone and playing a record.
The voice of Duncan was heard on the mobile, "So, Damian, you are telling me that your sister, Heather from H-tonics, told you to bribe B, our drummer."
Then it was the voice of a well-composed boy, around 12 years old, "Yes, it was my big sister, she told me to offer him 20,000 dollars in return for him sabotaging your performance."
Heather's eyes went wide, and she scowled at him. That little rascal had betrayed her, and worst of all, he didn't even sound scared on the record, so she can't argue he was forced to comply. She'll kill him later, slowly and painfully.
But she has few options left. Maybe she could try to snatch the phone away from him and break it? No, that will surely bring the staff members, and if she fails in destroying it, the punk will surely show them the video, and they'll be out of the show.
She needed a plan, but she couldn't think of anything, and there wasn't enough time.
"Hey, gorgeous, are you still there? Or you fainted standing up?" asked Duncan, a big smile across his face.
"Well, if what you have there is true, that isn't, why are you showing it to me? Production would be more interested. Because if you want to blackmail me, forget it, I'll die before betraying my bandmates," said Heather. She tried to look strong, but her voice was trembling.
Duncan hit his chin lightly with his phone. "No, I'm more interested in knowing why you would do this? Giving 20 grands don't sound like a great idea if the prize money is 100."
"I already told you that I didn't do it," said Heather clenching her teeth, trying to not raise her voice.
"Ok, let's play your game. If you tried to bribe my friend, that you didn't, why would you do it? It sounds like a bad deal," said Duncan. He threw his phone into the air and caught it with his other hand as if tempting her.
Heather chuckled. He was as smart as he looked. "Ok, you must be really stupid if you didn't notice it."
"Well, maybe the producer would tell me, as he'll not be as stupid as I am," replied Duncan going away, Heather, panicking, ran behind him.
"Wait, it was a joke," said Heather forcing herself to laugh, "if I did something like that, I would do it for something more important than the money, the reputation."
"Reputation?" asked Duncan with wide eyes.
"Yes, that is the difference between your little garage band and us. You only want to play music, but for us, we want to go professional, to show the world our talent. Not only making music for fun," said Heather, almost spitting the last words.
"Then let's make a deal, if you try any trick from now on, I will give this to production, and this will not only take you out of the show but will also ruin your reputation," said Duncan, smirking. "Oh, sorry, I mean if you did something like this, that you don't."
The singer's skin was red from the anger, and she was frowning. "Stop mocking me. Why you don't go to production with the record? You would win immediately!"
"I don't know, maybe I just want to show you that my garage band of music-loving freaks can win fair and square. But if you try anything underhanded, it's bye-bye. See you gorgeous," said Duncan waving, as Heather stood there, clenching her teeth, defeated. Now she couldn't play her last card anymore, not with the risk of being exposed.
Duncan noticed someone standing behind him as he walked back to the dressing room.
"So you were eavesdropping. I hope you can keep quiet about this, Bumblebee," said Duncan to the silent man that was walking with a big grin on his face.
B walked quicker and slapped Duncan's back a few times.
"What? do you think I decided to not report her because I'm a nice guy? Please, I'll give it to the producers if she tries something else," said Duncan blushing.
The drummer kept looking at him with a mocking smile.
"It's true. I don't blackmail Heather because I'm not like her, not because I'm nice. Stop smiling like that," replied Duncan, walking faster.
The silent man nodded and gave him some space. Maybe he was rude and loud, but Duncan was much softer than people thought. The delinquent confronted Heather to give her a chance, to know her intentions, but never intended to blackmail her. That punk wasn't as ruthless as other people think, and that's one of the reasons why B is proudly being his friend.
After entering the dressing room, B looked at the screen and smiled. It seemed like the last part of the show had already started.
[1] From this song I used as inspiration the Live during Vans Warped Tour in 2015. I like the vibe of Icon for Hire and their aesthetic, and I think it really fits for Dead Bodies.
[2] For this performance I used as inspiration Viva la Vida (A Cappella Tribute to Coldplay) by BYU Noteworthy, which is an awesome A capella performance. And The live performance of Coldplay in Brazil Lives in Sao Paulo.
[3] In the star wars series, Padawan is a Jedi apprentice.
[4]For this song, I use the Live version as inspiration (the version of Live O2 arena). I think the song is awesome, and for a band like Princess' Court, it would be a challenge they would take.
And the final continues. There are some more events in the next episode, including the joint performances. Are there more surprises yet? Find out next in War of the Bands.
And the final episode continues. I hope you enjoyed Chris as a host and the Dead Bodies and Princess' Court performance. I tried to choose some songs appropriate for them. And of course for H-tonics.
And as always, thanks for reading and I hope you like it
