This week, Junction is host to one of the most hotly anticipated events in the Cambridge music calendar: Take it to the Bridge. This year marks the fourth iteration of this legendary battle-of-the-bands, which annually showcases the best of the best of Cambridge music, and this year is no exception. The winner receives an ‘artist support bundle’ including studio time and industry mentorship. I had the privilege of speaking to all four finalists, who spoke enthusiastically about the opportunity to play Junction, an iconic venue previously host to Blur, Amy Winehouse, and Radiohead, as well as the potential to record their music and boost their careers in Cambridge and beyond.

The competition is fierce. Pulsar, which features the rhythm section of the beloved (and previous winners), Quasar, say they’re “all about the music” and although they originally played covers, ranging from Radiohead to MF DOOM, they have been creating their own original material since November. Their creative process is collaborative, starting with jam sessions, which eventually develop into intricate songs which highlight each member’s individual talent.

“Lost projects […] blend jazz, hip-hop and electronic music, creating an exciting fusion”

They are up against Lost Projects, a staple of the Cambridge music scene who perform a range of covers and originals which blend jazz, hip-hop and electronic music, creating an exciting fusion which reflects the tastes of its members, who all participate in the creation of their ingenious mashups and original writing. Their reputation precedes them, they have performed at the Cambridge Jazz Festival, the Six Six, Mash, La Raza, Clare Cellars and numerous May Balls. They certainly seem to be everywhere – and for good reason.

Also competing are Den, who bring a guitar-driven, art rock sound to this eclectic lineup. Taking inspiration from London’s Windmill scene, this post-punk (ish) band have gone from strength to strength, releasing two singles onto streaming platforms last summer. When asked what the audience should expect on Friday, they described their set as “moody” and joked that it “takes itself much too seriously,” although lead singer Gus Lovell spoke enthusiastically about being inspired by “the big pop girls,” with Sabrina Carpenter even getting a shoutout on their single ‘Friend’.

“Take it to the Bridge casts a spotlight on musicians who are fighting against the demands of degrees”

The final competitor is AVA, a poetic singer songwriter (think Kate Bush mixed with Nick Drake), who pairs raw and honest lyrics with a folky guitar sound. You may know Ava Fitzhugh as the lead singer of the covers band Half Orange, but she started performing her own material earlier this year. She says that the difference between the two are huge: “I am putting myself out there every time I play a gig and hoping that my music somehow resonates with people, rather than already knowing a song is a hit.”

The aspect that I think is particularly special about this year’s iteration of Take it to the Bridge is that the lineup all play at least some original music. I adore Cambridge’s well-established cover bands, a sentiment seconded by all four of the acts I interviewed, who had nothing but positive things to say about the talent and work ethic of these groups who have undoubtedly cemented their place in the epicentre of the Cambridge music scene. It appears, however, that songwriting has taken a backseat, so it’s exciting to see a space being carved out for original music.

Take it to the Bridge casts a spotlight on musicians who are fighting against the demands of degrees, and the allure of cover bands (of which membership can be extremely lucrative) to dare to write and perform their own material. Cambridge’s comedy and theatre programmes have produced a multitude of highly successful individuals at the pinnacle of their field, however this doesn’t seem to be the case for music, with very few big-name artists coming out of Cambridge University’s music scene. Perhaps opportunities like Take it the Bridge may encourage musicians to focus on writing, rather than just performance.

“Anyone who seeks out gigs in Cambridge should stay open minded to original music”

Alex Hall, Performance Administrator for Popular and World Music at the Centre for Music Performance explained that the competition has refocused in recent years. Previously, winners would earn the chance to perform on the main stage of the Cambridge Club Festival, however the development opportunities offered by the artist support package particularly appeals to original acts. Hall says he’s “very proud of the strong function band scene,” however he finds it “really exciting that the competition has managed to encourage many original musicians”.

While Take it to the Bridge is crucial in championing up and coming songwriters, it isn’t the only opportunity for original artists in Cambridge. Den have found their home in grassroots venues like The Portland Arms and The Blue Moon, preferring these to the traditional bop circuit. Lost Projects praised the Hip Hop society for providing a space for passionate audiences, eager to embrace new music. Additionally, Live at Lucy is a fantastic open mic which showcases various original artists, and STEW is a new music night specifically for original acts.

Anyone who seeks out gigs in Cambridge should stay open minded to original music. In the words of Den – “audiences need to take risks”. It’s very easy to gravitate towards beloved and consistently brilliant cover bands, but it’s also important to explore original artists, and expand our horizons. Take it to the Bridge is an excellent opportunity to do so. Pulsar, Lost Projects, Den, and AVA’s passion for music and their respective projects was clear and unequivocal, and their talents are undeniable. I certainly don’t envy the judges in picking the winner!