2016 Tune Tourney Elite Eight: San Francisco

And then there were eight.

We’ve entered the fourth round of 2016’s Tune Tournament, which means we’re mere hours away from selecting one song to represent San Francisco, and suit up for some Final Four heroics.

Last year’s champs The Y Axes, who dominated 2015’s field with “Neon Street,” continue their quest for a repeat with “Monsters,” one of our favorite tracks from their recent Umbra LP. In one of the closest matchups yet, “Monsters” held on against “Harlem” by Cathedrals, claiming the victory with a 60% share. If you’re lucky enough to live in this area, you can show your support in person when the Axes take the stage at Neck of the Woods later this week – Thursday, December 15.

The band they’re up against might be new to the tournament, but they’re by no means strangers to the San Francisco music scene. Sonny Smith is into his second decade of making music on the Edge of the World, and along with his Sunsets, and the production magic of Merrill Garbus of tUnE-yArDs, recently released Moods Baby Moods. Their tune, “Well But Strangely Hung Man” continues to vex the competition, recently besting Thao & The Get Down Stay Down with a 58% share. Who knows? In addition to celebrating the new year, Smith may be celebrating a Tournament win when the Sunsets perform at Great American Music Hall on Friday, January 6.

Check out the updated tournament bracket here. Who moves on to the Final Four? Cast your votes and spread the word, as this matchup closes on Wednesday, December 14 at noon.

Matchup: The Y Axes – “Monsters” vs. Cathedrals – “Harlem”