Stage 1 enters its second Round, featuring four very different Acts to raise awareness of adult bullying in hobby spaces. Rock, soul, pop and downtempo create a compelling mix of artistry, emotion and competition.
Round 2 brings anticipation. High School Dropout is considered a favourite to win the Contest, while Elora James, Kendra Blaze and Lorien each offer unique identities, loyal fans and stories that deepen the Contest’s mission.
Round 2: Four Acts, Four Very Different Paths
Leading the conversation is High School Dropout, one of CATAWOL Records’ defining Acts and a band with a powerful connection to the MODE Family.
Elora James brings a bold and authentic soul performance style to the Contest, aiming to engage the audience on an intersectional level.
Kendra Blaze, the perfection-driven vocalist known for her distinctive 80s influence, adds another layer of intrigue.
Completing the Round is Lorien, the enigmatic EDM/downtempo producer-vocalist, whose image and expressive music have made her one of the Contest’s most distinctive voices.
Voices from the Acts
“Every Round matters, because every performance is a chance to say something real,” Elora James remarked. “I’m proud to bring my voice into a Contest that stands for something bigger than music alone.”
“People know I don’t waste words — I’d rather let the set do the talking,” commented Lorien. “This Round has strong personalities, and that makes it exciting. I’m here to make my presence felt through the music.”
“Competition is part of the fire, but so is connection,” said one of High School Dropout’s members. “We’ve always backed our fans, and we know exactly what this Contest means. We’re ready for the challenge.”
Organisers Praise the Growing Impact of the Contest
Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D was created in partnership with the MODE Family to raise awareness of adult bullying in hobby spaces, along with showcasing some of CATAWOL Records’ finest talent.
A spokesperson for the Contest stated the response to the opening of Stage 1 has been “excellent,” adding that Round 2 reflects the full range of talent and perspective the Contest was created to showcase.
“Each Round has brought new energy, new conversations and a stronger sense of purpose,” the spokesperson said. “We’re proud to see the Acts engaging so fully with the Contest’s message, and the audience response has been remarkable.”
A Round Shaped by Rivalry and Reputation
Round 2 is poised to deliver tension, with the introduction of a projected favourite in High School Dropout to win the overall Contest.
The contrast between the high-spirited rock band, the introspective artistry of Elora James, the exacting polish of Kendra Blaze and the controlled intensity of Lorien gives this Round real dramatic weight.
As voting continues, every performance could shape the path ahead. In a Contest built on both artistry and advocacy, the next breakthrough may come from anywhere.
Follow the Contest
Fans are encouraged to follow Stage 1: Knockouts closely and support the Acts as the Contest unfolds.
With Round 2 now underway, the Contest continues to grow in scale, significance and suspense — and the next major moment could be just one performance away.