JanSport® Sets the Stage for Its Second Online Battle of the Bands Competition

JanSport, the original outdoor gear Brand that equips people globally with quality backpacks, travel gear and collegiate apparel, today announced its second annual Battle of the Bands competition in conjunction with The Forecastle Festival, the largest gathering of musicians, artists, and environmentalists in the Midwest.

Now through July 31, 2009, amateur, unsigned bands are invited to submit a song, photo, video and bio to www.jansport.com/forecastle. From Aug. 3 – Aug. 31, the public can vote for their favorite band and determine the 25 semifinalists. Of those 25 semifinalists, JanSport and The Forecastle Festival will select the top-five finalists, who will be revealed on Sept. 15, 2009, when the second stage of online voting is launched and will continue through Oct. 15.

The contest winner will be announced at the "Halfway to Forecastle” concert in Louisville, Kentucky Jan. 2010. The winning band will then have the chance to share the stage with some of the biggest names in music and play in front of thousands of fans, press and industry reps in Louisville, KY next July.

"Self expression has always been at the core of the JanSport Brand, and this competition truly allows us to embrace that attribute via music,” said Ann Daw, marketing director for JanSport. "Last year’s Battle of the Bands was a huge success and an incredible experience for us as we became exposed to so many talented musicians. We’re excited to have the 2009 winner, The Broderick, play this year’s Forecastle Festival and can’t wait to start the process all over again this year.”

"The Battle of the Bands partnership with JanSport is a great opportunity for the best unsigned bands to reap the rewards of their hard work,” said JK McKnight, producer of The Forecastle Festival. "We look forward to selecting the 2010 winner."

This year’s Forecastle Festival will be held July 10-12 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Fore more information about JanSport’s Battle of the Bands Competition and to view the Official Contest Rules, log onto www.jansport.com/forecastle.

About JanSport^®

Founded in 1967, JanSport is the original outdoor gear Brand that equips people globally with quality backpacks, travel gear and collegiate apparel. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, JanSport stands for fun and discovery. The company’s products are sold in retail stores throughout the world. For more information, visit www.jansport.com.

About The Forecastle Festival

Founded in Louisville, KY, The Forecastle Festival is an annual gathering that is equal parts Music, Art, and Activism. A symposium for musicians, artists, and environmentalists, Forecastle connects the progressive Midwest. For more information, please visit: http://www.forecastlefest.com