It’s the quintessential battle between David and Goliath.

The only problem is that this time it’s hard to know who’s winning.

Consider the Salt Lake Organizing Committee, a dynamic and sometimes tyrannical organization that wields its influence without blinking an eye.

However, it appears that this time, it blinked. And in doing so, it gave international exposure to Utah’s oftentimes overlooked local bands.

SLOC auditioned more than 3,000 performers, all aspiring to open for big-name acts at the Olympic Medals Plaza. More than 90 percent of those who SLOC selected are from Utah and the surrounding states.

In a musical scene that could easily be overrun by the likes of *NSYNC and Smashmouth, the Medals Plaza will feature a true sample of American music. These opening local bands will offer a taste of originality and musical spunk not found in manicured, big name groups.

While local groups will find warmth in SLOC’s open arms, some of Salt Lake’s small venues?that have traditionally been comfortable milieus for the local musicians?will leave them out in the cold.

Take, for example, the Zephyr Club, a downtown establishment that has booked larger touring bands during the Olympics?a move that will inevitably garner it more cash.

Other local venues, like Kilby Court and the Dead Goat Saloon, will nobly feature local bands.

By highlighting these local groups, the world will get a taste of Utah’s musical talent. In an act of surprising consideration, SLOC realized this and stretched its planning muscles. However, SLOC does have its tastes and some experimental bands were likely never considered for SLOC’s venues.

The performance of local bands for more than 20,000 people at the plaza is not just a boon to the audience. Bands will benefit from unprecedented exposure.

In their selection of musical acts for the Games, some Salt Lake venues have proved their musical moxie, while others have exposed their true?albeit ugly?colors.