ENTROPY, a neo-classic rock quintet from Ellsworth HS, earned the title of Best Young Band in the State of Maine Sunday when Reindeer Records presented its 25th -- and final-Annual Rock-Off competition at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland.

An enthusiastic crowd of about 300 fans, friends and family members of all sizes and ages were on hand to show their support for this year's finalists that also included CROSSED OUT (Gorham HS), AUXILIARY (Massabesic HS), DYSFUNKTIONAL MAYHEM (Deering, Casco Bay, Portland, Cheverus and Lake Region), INTRODUCING... (Windham HS) and SINGLE HANDED (Bonny Eagle).

The show kicked off with a guest performance by Jordan Stowell of IN THE AUDIENCE, a whimsical rock act from Portland, and concluded with a crowd-pleasing appearance by THE SHAMS, a band that competed in Rock-Offs 21 and 22. THE SHAMS reunited just for the historic finale, paying tribute to the stage that helped launch their popularity.

Rock-Off Master of Ceremonies Ryan Woodbury, a senior from Gray-New Gloucester HS, entertained the audience mid-way with his brand of acoustic pop.

The Annual Rock-Off Awards Presentation provided an opportunity to recognize many bands and individual musicians for outstanding efforts in numerous categories. [Complete list is attached].

Presenting ENTROPY with the last-ever Rock-Off title was David Ames, a well-known local working musician who was a member of the Bonny Eagle HS band AMBUSH, the very first Rock-Off winners in 1983.

ENTROPY formed several years ago when its founding members were in the 8th grade. Five years later, they would go on to win the Ellsworth Grand Theater Battle of the Bands, defeating many bands that had been signed to a record label. The band currently plays shows, but all the members are eager for something bigger. The band dreams of cutting an album, and becoming more than just a "local band."

Band members include: Brendon Bouchard - bass/vocals; Justin Chamberlain - lead guitar/vocals; John Keefe - guitar; Spencer Small - lead vocals; and Tyler Small - drums.

Complete details about this year's event can be found at www.mainetoday.com/rockoff.