We started strong with DIG THE GIG OU last week, and Heat 2 proved to be even stronger. Sheer talent and performative charm, and attentive audience coming out in mass, you couldn't have asked for a better Wednesday night.

Heat 1 extraordinaire's 70's Corn Syrup Explosion made a repeat performance as house band, warming up the PA - we love them so much we had to ask them back. Nice work fellas.

Keira Wallace opened up the competition with a breathtaking set. Honestly one of the best voices around, Keira Wallace has an incredible gift of completely captivating those who surround them, with nothing but a voice and a guitar, and hauntingly beautiful lyrics + delivery. You are wonderful Keira.

Fac 51's first gig was a treat. A mix of raw energy, britpop fuzz, and consistent beats. Their originals were pretty darn good - hints of Blur, The Stone Roses, Pulp... A really solid set.

Acacial Drift also played their first live venue set, after countless hours of rehearsing as part of their University project. A really tight band - some awesome guitar work and great drumming variations. The bas player was a smooth cat, bouncy and light on his fingers, and the singer had an incredible vocal delivery - a proper powerhouse singer. Their first original was a great tune, and something I could easily hear becoming a lead single. Maybe they oughta get in the studio sometime soon?!

Purple Dog. Wow. If you've seen them live before, you know they've got it. They proved that and more on stage in DTG OU Heat 2... they brought a mega crowd, and this fed into their live energy immaculately. Seasoned performers within the Ōtepoti gigging circuit, their originals are catchy, edgy, dramatic, and grungy, all at the same time. Cricket Enthusiast was my personal favourite. Looking forward to watching them tear up the stage again in the final! Congrats Purple Dog!

Be prepared - DIG THE GIG OU Heat 3 is going to be the biggest DTG OU heat to date. Get in early next Wednesday as DropKicks will no doubt be packed out, and the music is set to be on point with some incredible and already well established bands taking the stage.