The five unsigned bands who will fight it out for prizes in the final of the Shropshire Star Battle of the Bands 2009 have been unveiled.

Deco, Hill Valley High, Callebra, Decadence In Berlin and The Jackdaws are the ones who made it through to the last five.

They were selected from an initial entry of 46 bands from across Shropshire and Mid Wales. That number was whittled down to 10, who made a shortlist, and voters have been assessing their music via an online poll here on shropshirestar.com

Today competition spokesman James Shaw said: “We received around 2,300 votes and we’d like to thank all of the readers who took the time and trouble to log on and vote.

“The readers’ favourites became very apparent during the course of the vote and we think we’ve got a fantastic line-up.

“The final is on June 20 at Theatre Severn, in Shrewsbury, and tickets are on sale now. They cost £5 in advance, or £7 on the door, so we’d encourage people to get them as soon as possible.”

Alex Chestermaster said Deco were thrilled. He said: “We’re a Shrewsbury-based six piece who are into art rock. Our influences are bands like Radiohead, Portishead and Placebo. We’re thrilled to get through.”

Telford quartet Callebra are also hoping for success.

Spokesman Stephenson Ardern-Sodje said: “It’s great to make the final. We’re a form piece who met at Shrewsbury Sixth Form two years ago. We like stuff like Queens of the Stone Age, Block Party and Goldfrapp. We hope our fans come along on June 20 to support us at Theatre Severn.”

Graham Reynolds, from alternative trio Decadence in Berlin, said he couldn’t wait to play. He said: “We’re chuffed to be in the final. Hopefully, people will buy tickets for the event and support live music.”

The remaining finalists are Telford pop-punk combo Hill Valley High, who have recently toured Brazil, and The Jackdaws, who list their influences as being The Strokes, The Libertines, Kings Of Leon and The Cribs.

• Tickets for the Battle of the Bands final are available at www.theatresevern.co.uk or (01743) 281281, priced £5 in advance or £7 on the night.