Underground Sounds uncovers new talent

Published on 15 September 2026

Young musicians and bands are urged to get their entries in now for Underground Sounds – Perth’s longest-running battle of the bands competition.

Entries open today, with a deadline of Monday 16 November. Finalists will be announced in December and the live finals will be held at the Underground Youth Centre in Southern River on Saturday 30 January.

This year, entrants will compete for a $5,000 prize pool.

Previously known as Gozzy Rock, Underground Sounds has expanded in recent years to include contestants from five local government areas, including the Cities of Gosnells, Armadale and Canning, the Town of Victoria Park and the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale.

City of Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes said Underground Sounds was always a popular event and provided a valuable live performance opportunity to emerging artists.

“Each year, Underground Sounds brings together some of the best local acts in the region, featuring a wide range of genres from rock to rap, folk, indie, hip hop, electronic, country, metal and more,” she said.

“Whatever music you perform, we want to hear it, so get your entries in now.”

Mayor Lynes said the support and collaboration of neighbouring local governments meant the 2026 prize pool had grown to $5,000 and the pool of entrants had expanded substantially, creating more opportunities for emerging talent in the South East Corridor.

Entrants must be aged 12 to 25 and live or work in the Cities of Gosnells, Armadale and Canning, the Town of Victoria Park, or the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale. Bands must have at least one band member that meets these requirements.

For more information, click hereor follow the Cityofgosnellsyouth Instagram page.