It's American Idol, without the cheese.

Hong Kong’s music scene harbours a little secret. Untapped by labels and lacking the independent music infrastructure enjoyed by other countries, there is a wealth of marketable indie talent waiting to be discovered. It just needs a little help – and that’s where we come in. In 2009, Time Out promises one super-talented Hong Kong band: We’ll make your album.

Who will that band be? That’s the fun part.

To be in with a chance of being chosen, send us a three-song demo and a mission statement explaining why you’ve got what it takes. Our panel of expert judges will then decide which band will have their album made, marketed, promoted, designed, and distributed for free by Time Out Hong Kong.

Here’s what the winning band gets:

• Recording of a full-length album at This Music Studio
• Professional mixing and mastering of the album
• Cover art designed by a leading Hong Kong artist
• A cover story in Time Out Hong Kong
• Promotional, distribution, and marketing support
• A high-profile gig to celebrate the CD launch, hosted and promoted by Time Out Hong Kong
• Fame and glory!

Conditions
To be eligible, entrants must be unsigned, and all demos must be original material (sorry cover bands). Demos and other submitted material cannot be returned.

Send entries to:
The Editor, Time Out Hong Kong,
18/F, 128 Lockhart Road,
Wan Chai, HK.

The closing date is August 4, 2009. The editor’s decision is final.