CATAWOL Records is pleased to introduce Westbound: the boy band whose entry in the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D Song Contest has made them a finalist to watch.
Known for their close-knit chemistry and shared background, the Contest has already done more than test their competitive edge — it has helped broaden an already loyal fan base and put their identity as a band in sharper focus. Their only concern, they admit, is survival against Bryknii’s sheer star power.
What does the Contest mean to you?
The Contest means a lot to us, because it’s a chance to be heard by people who might never have found us otherwise. We’ve been building our sound together for years, and getting this far tells us what we’re doing is connecting. It’s exciting, and honestly, a little surreal.
The trio added that the Contest’s wider purpose also resonates with them, pointing to the importance of standing together in spaces where people should feel welcome to create and belong.
We remember what it was like, being from an Irish background; it was a massive target on our heads. If we didn’t have each other back then, I don't think we would have made it this far.
Tell us about your version of the song.
Westbound’s Contest entry merges the band’s pop-rock instincts with a streamlined, performance-ready approach.
We did what we usually do, and it worked because we made it for our audience: they’re at that place where bullying is common, and people just accept it as normal. We didn’t want to overcomplicate it. The goal was to make something that gives people hope, that they can get through it.
That balance of accessibility and personality has helped Westbound emerge as a serious finalist, with their convincing Round 4 victory underscoring their place among the Contest’s strongest contenders.
If not you, which Finalist would you like to see win?
It has to be Bryknii, doesn't it? There’s no denying her star power; it’s going to be tough to beat.
What Comes After the Contest?
Westbound have already experienced a swell of support from new and existing fans, but their goal is to climb even higher.
We want to go all the way, with more people getting to know who we are and where we came from. The next step is to keep pushing the sound forward and make the most of the attention we’ve earned.
About the Contest
Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D is a collaboration between CATAWOL Records and the MODE Family, in the form of a song contest. 32 of the label’s most talented Acts compete to create the campaign’s official anthem, raising awareness of bullying in hobby spaces.
CATAWOL Records is proud to support the Finalists as they share their voices on a larger stage, while celebrating creativity, resilience, and community.