Alternative rock and indie group Mellow Honey belted its way to the top of Movin’ On’s Battle of the Bands on Tuesday night, winning the spot to headline the annual end-of-semester music festival on April 28.

Mellow Honey won over the judges in the HUB’s Alumni Hall with the original tunes that make them the “cerebrum-space pioneers.” Before the group was announced as the winner, six other bands had the opportunity to battle for a spot on Movin’ On’s coveted stage.

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Emo alt-country and folk performer Forrester Grey kicked the night off with original songs “Scholastic Book Affair” and “Garden,” which warranted a chaotic mosh pit from the crowd that was eventually broken up by event staffers.

Battle winner Mellow Honey then took the stage, opening with “Space Waste” from its new album, Sentimental by Design. Throughout its set, the band played several other songs from its album, including “The Sugar Store.”

Remaining on brand with a similar genre, psychedelic punk blues band Alvarius had fun with its set. The crew encouraged participation from the crowd as the band played “Because I’m a Fucking Frog.” To go along with the theme, the band repped unique frog hats.

After jumping around, Sunday Antiques brought a much-needed, calmer vibe to the venue. The band described themselves as “slightly emo, slightly indie, a little folky, kinda rock, even hip hop.” It started its set with its latest single “Waste of Time,” while also performing other originals, including “Late Night Cigarette.”

Scotia, a high-octane rock band, reversed the relaxing feels by staging a “We Are!” chant before starting its setlist. The band played tunes about a variety of touchy topics, ranging from cheating to how the current generation of parents should be responsible for global warming. During Scotia’s set, performer Forrester Grey led a groovy Conga line that made its way around Alumni Hall.

The final act of the night was Queen of Peace, who brought a pop alt-rock energy needed to end the night off right. The band opened up its allotment with an energetic performance before taking a moment to say how grateful they were to have the opportunity to perform.

The band was originally slated to play at Battle of the Bands in 2020, but the event was canceled due to the pandemic. The band closed their set with a unique twist on “Desperado.”

Following Mellow Honey’s win, the band will kick off Movin’ On’s annual music festival on Friday, April 28, at the IM Fields. Headliners for the event will be released sometime this month.

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