Eleven bands competed last night at House of Blues during the first round of the 18th Annual High School Rock Off. The top three — Toxic Lemons, Backstage Politics and High Acres — will go on to compete in the “Final Exam” on Feb. 1.

Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.