Microsoft searches for unsigned bands

Microsoft has revealed it is now actively searching for unsigned DJs, singers and bands after launching a national campaign to find Britain's hottest undiscovered talent.

The firm is looking for artists to create their own music to fit the visuals of future Xbox 360 game trailers.

Those keen to apply to the 'Soundtracks' competition can download a range of trailers for which to create music from xbox.com/music. The artist would then create the music and upload it to the website allowing visitors to review and rate it.

The overall winner will be given time in a recording studio and - with the help of a production team - create their own demo tape.

The competition was launched by new band Enter Shikari, whose frontman Rou Reynolds created the music to Xbox 360 trailer Blue Dragon. Reynolds said: “Having just got back from a tour of Japan we were completely taken by Japanese culture, so when I saw the trailer for Blue Dragon it made perfect sense to write a track to fit it. I’m excited by the results – the visuals work so well with the music and fit our sound really well. Hopefully, other musicians out there will feel inspired by games too and want to get involved.”