They have only been together for a year but young upstarts Edged are already making a name for themselves winning a place in Sunday’s area finals of the Live and Unsigned contest.

Here the lads, who hail from Carshalton and Wallington, give us the lowdown about the band and how they fit in exam studies around rehearsals and performing.

Who are Edged?

We are a five-piece band. Band members are: Will Evans, 16, vocals, John Godly, 16, drums, Brad Steer, 16, guitar, Toby Draper, 15, bass and backing vocals, and 17-year-old Jack Evans on keyboard.

How did the band meet and how long have you been together?

We have been together for about a year now. Brad and Will met at a Kiss concert and knowing that they both had a passion for music, Will’s older brother Jack soon joined. There have been a few line-up changes but now we have a solid line-up.

How difficult is it to combine performing with studying for your exams?

Difficult, of course our exams come first, but we are finding ways of balancing our passion with our responsibilities.

How would you describe your sound in three words?

We have been described as “dirty, melodic rock”.

You’ve made it through to the area finals of Live and Unsigned. What will you be playing for the judges?

We will be performing a mash-up of one of our own songs and a classic rock anthem.

What does it mean to you to get so far in the competition?

We’re enjoying the ride so far, we’ve competed against bands that are older, more experienced, and very talented. We are looking forward to the next round.

You’ve hired a coach to take people to the gig. Are you hoping the home support will bolster your performance?

Yes, we have hired a coach to transport our fans from home to the area final of Live and Unsigned in Basildon, Essex. We’re doing this in the hope our fans support will strengthen our confidence.

When can we next see Edged play live?

After Live and Unsigned we are one of the headlining acts at De-Fest, near Caterham, on June 18, which is when our exams end.

After this, we will definitely be booking as many gigs as possible, so there will be plenty of opportunities to come and see us doing what we love to do. If anybody wants to come and support us this Sunday, in Basildon, contact the band via Facebook or YouTube. Search Edged in Facebook, or go to youtube.com/OfficialEdged