A music contest for true talents

The Datsuns are former Rockquest contributors.

Longbefore NZ Idol, the Smokefreerockquest was the bastion of true talent-spotting.

Everyone from the Datsuns, Bic Runga, Anika Moa, Steriogram, King Kapisi and last year's winners, the Electric Confectionaires, have competed over the years.

And all without an "Ohhhh yeah" from Frankie. This year's national final will be held at Takapuna's Bruce Mason Centre on October 7 and will screen on C4. The finalists are ...

Sons of Solomon, an emo band with Asian influences from the North Shore. It is not known if they are actually Jewish.

A.D.D., a guitar-powered Auckland rock band with possible behavioural problems. Not to be confused with an Aussie institution of a similar name.

Five Fold Kiss, a Shihad-influenced, technically intricate 'Scremo' band from Wellington. Is it just us or is their name a bit rude?

Moana Ete, a Wellingtonian R&B powerhouse who plays the keys. Move over Alicia.

Neil Robinson, a pop-rock Christchurch band with unique songwriting ideas. What is it about the water down there?

Black Market Art, an alternative pop group with folk influences, also from Christchurch. Parents probably liked Dylan.