8 bands compete in Rockabilly Showdown

A two-day showcase of rockabilly bands took place over the weekend as part of the fifth annual West Coast Rockabilly Showdown.

Eight bands competed for cash prizes and the chance to return Sunday to open for James Intveld. The four-piece band The Americans won the opportunity and received a $1,000 cash prize.

The battling groups also included Maureen and the Mercury 5, which won second place, and Silvertooth Loos and the Witch, which won third place. The top three bands are based in Los Angeles.

From Orange County, trio Scotti Mars and the Hellcats participated as did J.P. McDermott and the Western Bop.

Judging was based on muscianship, showmanship, song selections and audience response, according to a news release.

The event was held at the Orange County Market Place in Costa Mesa.

— Emily Foxhall

Twitter: @emfoxhall