Jordan Flesher wins contest, jumps up and down (21 photos)

A tough decision was placed in the capable hands of Phil Greco, Dan Nystedt and Trevor Harding as they judged the Bon Soo Battle of the Bands Friday night at the Holiday Inn.

The three remaining bands who participated in this final competition were judged on criteria including originality, creativity, crowd participation, stage presence and musicianship.

Vying for cold, hard cash and some recording time with Jon Ferguson, all three were at the top of their game and each brought something different to the event.

"We're here to show you how funk and rock belong together," declared frontman Kyle McKey as Sailor's Tongue kicked off the competition.

Bootscatter and Dr. John, two gritty blues originals that sharply illustrate Sailor's Tongue's influences, were paired with covers of the Eagles' Life in the Fast Lane and Pink Floyd's Money.

Despite a last-minute fill-in drummer and a few minor technical difficulties, the Blackberries headed by Norm Rosteck delivered a solid set of four originals; Undone, Lid man, Gambling Man and New Rules.

Their old-school rock sound even coaxed a few dancers out of their seats.

"i'd like to personally thank the other two bands. If you could give them a round of applause," said Jordan Flesher, singer/guitar player for the Crossed, just before they ripped into their stellar progressive/metal set.

A large crowd of young fans gathered in front of the stage, almost doubling the previously existing audience.

Huge roars of approval erupted as Phil Greco announced that the Crossed had taken home the prize, much to their own shock and surprise.

They were then given a victory encore as the crowd danced and moshed and demanded another full set from their heroes.

Keep an eye on these young lads.

They will definitely go places.