The Russell County Schools Auditorium Complex and First National Bank of Russell Springs are bringing a musical competition to the area in February with a grand prize on the table of $1,000, a chance to perform the opening act for country music sensation Halfway to Hazard on April 30 and four hours of recording at Downtown Recording Studio in Louisville.

The "Country-Pop-Rock 'N Roll Revival" will be Feb. 26 at noon in the auditorium, according to Susan Melton, the facility's director and even coordinator. The judges will consist of representatives from various talent agencies and recording studios.

To enter, download the competition application and rules at russell.kyschools.us. Click on the "Country-Pop-Rock 'N Roll Revival Application" to access the application.

The entry deadline for bands  must be postmarked by Feb. 15 and include the completed application, and audio recording on a CD or cassette, a photograph of the band, a $100 non-refundable entry fee in the form of cashiers' check or money order payable to Russell County ANC (add $25 if you wish to set up an artist's booth to sell CD's and appropriate clothing) and mail to Russell County ANC, Battle of the Bands Competition, ATT: Susan Melton, PO Box 1236, Russell Springs, KY 42642.

A second place price of $300 and a third place prize of $100 will also be awarded. General admission to watch the competition is $6 per person.

Judges will score bands using a point system and each act will be judged on the following criteria: stage presence, time, originality, musical ability and audience approval.

Halfway to Hazard will be in concert at the auditorium on April 30. Their debut single, "Daisy", was a Top 40 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs charts in 2007. In May 2008, they were nominated by the Academy of Country music for their "Duo of the Year," award.

For more information on that concert, keep reading the Russell County News-Register and the Times Journal as the date draws closer.