There's nothing like a bit of healthy competition to stimulate the music scene, which is exactly what The Bunker and The Ivy House will be aiming to do, as they join forces to deliver Stripped Back 2012. Live music championing pub The Ivy House are re-branding their weekly gigs to create a year-long contest that will crown one act the punters' favourite. Each Thursday three acts will perform in an acoustic showcase, attempting to win over the audience with their stripped-back sets. The best set of the night will be chosen via audience participation, with the crowd voting for their favourite act. At the end of 2012 a prize fund total of £1000 will be up for grabs for those make the final showcase gig.

This is an ideal opportunity for bands and artists to strip back and show the talent that belies their songwriting and musicianship, as well as a chance for the gig going public of Sunderland to show their support for their favourite acts.

Gigs will take place @ The Ivy House every Thursday night. Each gig will be Free entry, with a number of drinks promotions and bar snacks available.

Three acts will perform each week, with all types of acts over the age of 17 welcome to enter. Punters watching the performances on the night will be asked to vote for their favourite. The top scoring act on the night will make it onto The Bunkers online leaderboard.

At the end of the year, the top 16 acts will go into knock-out rounds and appear on Stripped Back 2012's Compilation CD.The final 4 will go on to compete for a prize fund totalling £1000. The winner will also receive a full digital release package for a single which will include press/promotion/distribution.

If you are interested in performing at one of Stripped Back 2012 rounds, contact info@bunkeruk.com and we will contact you with our next available date.

For more information and rules go to Stripped Back 2012's facebook page www.facebook.com/strippedback2012