The No Label Needed Contest & Series is a collaboration between Metal Insider and Scion to give one unsigned artist an entire DIY music industry education and launch a release without the help of a label. We’ll be posting features and updates on the contest & series periodically on Metal Insider. Find out more about No Label Needed here.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be taking a closer look at each of the No Label Needed finalists. Today, we’re featuring Brotherhood.

Formed in 2005 in San Antonio, the band is comprised of Rod Nichols on vocals, Dave McConnell on drums, Andrew Salazar on bass and Alex Cantu and Adrian Cardenas on guitar. McConnell took some time aside from campaigning for the lead in public votes to answer a few of our questions.

Why should people vote for you over the other finalists?

Because of our work ethic, our quality of music, our consistency in touring regionally and nationally and our willingness to put it all on the line for the sake of music.

What has been your most challenging moment as an unsigned metal band?

Overcoming all the grueling obstacles of touring as a DIY band with no financial backing or support.

What’s been your greatest highlight?

Overcoming all the obstacles of being a DIY band, pushing forward and loving every second of it.

Who’s career do you admire?

Shadows Fall, because they went from indie label to major label to owning their own label, they are a Grammy-nominated band and basically run their own show 100%. I admire that.

What is the local scene like in your home town?

Strong but lazy; a good solid center, but with a lack of ambition. We would like to see it thrive again!

Public voting for the No Label Needed Contest & Series presented by Scion runs through March 8. Visit the No Label Needed microsite to listen to Brotherhood and the 19 other finalists and cast your vote!