Minister Theory, a New Smyrna Beach jazz-funk band, is one of the 12 finalists in the 2009 Land Shark Lager Battle of the Bands. The national competition concludes Monday.
     
"Yeah, we are stoked about it," guitarist-singer Tony Cuchetti wrote in an e-mail to The News-Journal. The band also includes his sister, singer Gina Cuchetti; his brother, drummer Chris Cuchetti; sax player Jaime Hollis and bassist-keyboardist Tobi Drentwett.
     
The competition recently featured the 12 bands performing at three showcase venues -- in Austin, Chicago and Nashville.
     
"Our showcase was in Nashville -- it went great," Tony Cuchetti said. "We really rocked the house. We played at the famed 12th and Porter club and nailed it. The band was spot on. So now we're in the final round and it all comes down to fan votes."
     
Music fans can check out all 12 finalists and vote online at landsharkrocks.com. The site features a video clip from Minister Theory's Nashville performance, as well as a link to a studio recording of their song "Beautiful Life." The site accepts only one vote per e-mail address.
     
According to the Web site, the winner will receive a "promotional prize pack valued at over $100,000." The package includes a full page spread in Rolling Stone and a digital distribution deal, Cuchetti said.