Co-written by Nanda Nayak and Derek Shao

It was a battle of bands — with only one band.

Planet 10, featuring freshmen Pramodh Srihari, Brian Lee, Kilian Hahn, sophomore Dylan Evans and junior Jack Li, performed for MVHS in the rally court on May 18th. Lee, who organized the band, chose the members based on their talent and ability.

“All the members in the band are from jazz band but we’re all in different groups,” Lee said. “For this event, I wanted to get some of the most talented musicians together.”

Battle of the Bands originally had three bands expected to play. However, after the other two teams dropped out due to a lack of equipment, Planet 10 found themselves alone.

“I think it went smoothly although a lot of bands cancelled,” Lee said. “And we did have some microphone problems, but that’s just expected with live performances. ”

The band performed a jazz rendition of Jay Z and Alicia Key’s hit single, “Empire State of Mind.” Even though the competition aspect was lost, Lee believed that he still gained valuable experience by working with the band.

“I got to work with some other really good musicians,” Lee said. “People that I wouldn’t usually work with.”

Lee had an enjoyable experience with this year’s Battle of the Bands and wants to perform again next year, but he also hopes that other bands will join in on the event.

“There isn’t much pressure,” Lee said. “But with a couple of rehearsals, you can get farther than you think.”