Self Help Books wins CAWES Battle of the Bands

A midwest emo/punk band from Red Deer won the top prize at the Central Alberta Emergency Women’s Shelter’s first-ever Battle of the Bands: Voices for Change.

Self Help Books wins CAWES Battle of the Bands Published 1:30 pm Wednesday, July 15, 2026 A midwest emo/punk band from Red Deer won the top prize at the Central Alberta Emergency Women’s Shelter’s first-ever Battle of the Bands: Voices for Change. The event took place at Bo’s Bar and Stage on Friday, July 11. Ten local bands competed for a $1,000 cash prize, three hours of studio time courtesy of GB Music and Sound, and the CAWES Battle of the Bands trophy.

Self Help Books was named the winner of the competition. The band is comprised of lead vocalist and guitar player Riley McRae, lead guitarist Trymer Martin, drummer Robert Fearey III and bassist Landon Bennett. “The night was filled with some amazing talent, so it was a big shock for us,” Bennett said of the band’s victory.

“We’re very appreciative of Bo’s and the Central Alberta Emergency Women’s Shelter for putting this all together. We were really happy to meet all the other talent. It was such a great experience for all of us.”

This past May, the band released the five-song EP All Worries, No Good. Bennett said the group was looking for ways to promote the EP when they learned of the Battle of the Bands. “We thought this would be a good way to showcase a couple songs from the EP and get our new material out there,” said Bennett.

“Midwest emo is kind of in the realm of punk music, but a bit more emotional. It’s something you can take seriously and not take seriously at the same time. You can tell by some of our song titles that we like to joke around, but the messages within the songs are still very serious and heartfelt.”

Self Help Books originally started as a three-piece skate punk band. The group later added more of a hardcore edge, leading to its current the midwest emo sound. “Over time some members have left the group and others have joined in,” Bennett said.

“I was a fan of the band when it was the original three. When some members parted way, I got the chance to join in. It’s been a blessing ever since.”

The other artists competing at the Battle of the Bands were Alchemy, Beluga Bones, Four Quarters, Jordyn Rayne, Just Asleep, Roadrash, Sychophants of Love, Team Rockitt and Tegridy. Four Quarters finished second and Tegridy was third. Roadrash received the Future Headliners Award.

“Everyone who came through the door made this such a successful event. It was our first year and didn’t know what to expect, but Red Deer really showed up for us,” said Meagan MacEachern, CAWES community partnership manager. Performances were judged by a panel of judges, including celebrity guest judge Canadian singer-songwriter Christian Hudson.

All proceeds from the event will directly support CAWES programs and services, helping individuals and families experiencing domestic violence in Central Alberta. About $10,000 was raised at the event. Battle of the Bands “was a great opportunity to showcase local talent in a unique platform,” said MacEachern.

“It was also a way for us to raise awareness for who we are and what we do for an audience that maybe did not know about us before. ... It was an amazing night to come together to celebrate Red Deer’s music community while raising money for the shelter and the families that we serve.”