If you think that is a 'tired' way of doing things, fair enough, you are entiltled to think that. The truth of the matter is, not that many bands press records (especially up here, I can only think of 4 or 5 who have done a seven inch in recent times, and off the top of my head only one that did a split, possibly two if Filthpact did). The notion that putting out your own record and touring is 'tired' baffles me. A contest on television would have far less impact on real world success to Aberdeen's 'scene', i would put forward that Aberdeen would be regarded in higher thoughts by A+R, record lables, agents etc...if there were alot more bands willing to release their own records/a small Aberdeen label releasing plenty of records and bands working hard on touring, making an actual name for the city. I'm also not going to poo-poo the idea of entering such a contest regardless of my feelings on them, its a personal choice after all. And im sure most people would hope an Aberdeen band did well out of it if they did reach the televised stage of the contest. Also for the record, there are a few bands at the moment from up here attracting good label interest, they have all put out their own stuff or had small labels do it for them and work hard at touring, none have entered any contest to make this happen so you can believe me when i say that people do know this city exists, its just alot easier to sign a similar band from London or Glasgow