On Sunday, April 19, Reindeer Records will present the 25th Annual Rock-Off Finals at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland, starting at 2 PM. The show will mark the end of Reindeer's flagship event that for a quarter of a century has given exposure to literally thousands of high school musicians and hundreds of high school rock bands.

Two well-known local bands that have been a big part of recent Rock-Off events, as well as the local music scene, will once again return to the RO stage to help celebrate the historic finale for the long-running competition: BETTER THAN and THE SHAMS.

BETTER THAN played in the Rock-Off for three years, representing Gray-New Gloucester High School in RO 22, 23 and 24. The power pop-punk trio has been a constant name on the local music scene and has recently released their first CD. Bandmembers include J.D. Raines (Guitar/Vocals), Zach Chaffee (Drums) and Joe Wright (Bass, Vocals). Visit www.myspace.com/betterthanmusic for more info.

THE SHAMS made it into the Finals in Rock-Offs 21 and 22. The band formed in 2004 and quickly become a regular support act for successful local acts like The Killing Moon and Sparks The Rescue. In 2007, they called it quits to pursue their own separate paths. Now, after a long hiatus, The Shams are reuniting for their legendary Rock-Off guest appearance, to once again play the stage that made them. Bandmembers include Marcus Bagala (Guitar, Lead Vocals, Violin), Sam Bagala (Keyboards, Vocals), Haydn Deal (Guitar, Vocals), Andrew Deal (Bass), Peter Eckstein (Cello), Sky Critchfield (Drums). Visit www.myspace.com/theshams for more info.

The Finals are open to all ages. Tickets are $10/advance, $12 at the door. For complete Rock-Off info, visit www.mainetoday.com/rockoff.