SOUTHEND band Caleb have won the Echo-backed Essex Battle of the Bands 2008.

The four-piece acoustic indie band wowed a panel of judges with their blend of haunting harmonies and tribal percussion.

The competition was organised by music students at Eastwood School.

The finalists - Crimson Cross, Reissue, 4ft Pimp, 27 Club and Caleb - were whittled down from 20 hopefuls during a weekend of auditions last month.

Caleb formed in 2002 and feature Phil Edey on drums, Steve Segar on bass, Dan Halamandres on vocals and guitar, and the enchanting vocals of flame-haired singer Elyza.

Stunned to have won, Steve said: "We are not the sort of band that win things like this. It's great."

Their prize is a recording session at the BBC Maida Vale studios in London.

Full report in Monday's Echo plus SOUNDCHECK special on Wednesday