The Knockouts Stage continues today with Round 6, bringing together four sharply contrasting Acts united by one striking thread: performances built around the guitar.
From blues-rock weight to country humour, folk storytelling to punk defiance, this Round offers another showcase of the Contest’s mission: raising awareness of adult bullying in hobby spaces through music, personality and purpose.
Round 6: A Guitar-Led Battle of Style and Substance
Leading the Round is Axel King, performing with backing band The Roses: a serious-minded rock guitarist who transitioned into blues rock. He enters the Contest to prove that craft, discipline and deep-rooted rock and roll conviction command attention.
Comedic country-and-western duo Buck & Jeb lighten the mood, emphasising their partnership built on chemistry and mutual support. The duo take part to entertain the crowd and show that music can be both skilful and self-aware, even when the mood is playful.
Folk singer Emma Finch provides a songwriter’s heart and a clear sense of purpose, aided by her trusted acoustic guitar. She speaks up for girls facing bullying and uses her music for encouragement and solidarity.
Rounding off the lineup is Violet Riot, an all-female punk rock group whose confidence and cohesion have made them one of the Contest’s more intriguing entries. They aim to challenge expectations while celebrating female autonomy and the power of loud, uncompromising expression.
Voices from the Acts
“I’ve spent years learning how to make a guitar say something honest,” said Axel King. “[This Contest] is a chance to bring that sound to a wider audience and stand for something that matters.”
“We’re about having a bit of fun, but we’re serious about giving people a good time,” commented Buck of Buck & Jeb, “and by people, we mean everybody in the room.”
“I’m here because music should never be silent in the face of bullying,” said Emma Finch. “If my songs can help even one person feel seen, then this Contest is worth every second.”
Motive, Message and Momentum
While each Act has a different reason for competing, all are united by the Contest’s wider purpose. Axel wants to be recognised for his musicianship and his evolution as an artist. Buck & Jeb want to entertain while proving that humour and harmony can go hand in hand. Emma Finch is driven by advocacy as much as artistry, while Violet Riot are determined to show that punk rock can be both confrontational and thoughtful.
With this clash of crowd-swaying confidence, emotional clarity and crowd-pleasing charm, Round 6 could be one of the most unpredictable Rounds yet.
CATAWOL Records Reiterates the Importance of the Contest
A spokesperson for CATAWOL Records said the label remains proud to support a Contest that combines artistic excellence with a meaningful cause.
Round 6 is another strong example of what this Contest does best: it brings together very different voices, each with something genuine to say. Whether through grit, humour, conviction or protest, these Acts address adult bullying in hobby spaces in memorable and impactful ways.
Round 6 is One To Watch
With only three Rounds left in the Knockouts Stage, Round 6 promises another decisive chapter in the Contest’s journey.
CATAWOL Records encourages fans of the Contest to continue supporting the Acts and vote for the performance that speaks to them most.
In a Round where every Act carries a guitar and brings a distinct point of view, the outcome could turn on one unforgettable moment.