Battle of the Riffs is designed to recognise creativity, improvement, and community engagement, not just technical ability or mixing ability. To ensure a fair and transparent process, all voting is conducted by Modern Metal Academy staff using a consistent scoring system.
This article explains exactly how voting works and what criteria are used each month.
Who Votes?
Voting is carried out by the Modern Metal Academy staff team and myself.
There is no public vote, and participants do not vote on each other’s submissions.
This keeps the judging consistent, unbiased, and focused on growth.
Scoring System
Each submission is rated on a 1–10 scale across multiple categories. Each category contributes to the final score.
The judging categories are:
1. Progression Since Previous Entry
Has the participant shown noticeable improvement, growth, or development since their last submission? If there is no previous submission, then this score will be the lowest until the next month that you submit. We want to see the growth of your songwriting.
2. Following the Brief
Does the song match the monthly theme or musical requirement?
3. Tightness and Precision
Is the playing clean, controlled, and rhythmically accurate?
4. Musical Enjoyment
Did we, the voting team, individually enjoy the music?
(Not genre preference, purely musicality, structure, and feel.)
In addition to these performance-based criteria, judges also consider overall participation within Modern Metal Academy.
Community Engagement Considerations
Battle of the Riffs is not only about writing songs, it’s about growth, involvement, and celebrating other members within the community.
We, the staff also look at:
1. Contribution to the Community
Has the member helped others, shared feedback, or participated in discussions?
2. Activity in Daily Guitar Hacks and Workshops
Has the member been actively applying themselves, posting progress, or completing challenges?
3. Engagement With Learning Pathways and Fundamentals
Is the member working through MMA’s core learning tools, masterclasses, and lessons?
These factors are considered to encourage consistent learning, positive involvement, and community support.
Why Engagement Matters
Battle of the Riffs is built around:
Encouraging growth
Supporting fellow players
Celebrating progress
Improving musicianship over time
Members are encouraged to:
Give constructive and valuable feedback to one another
Recognise progress in others
Celebrate each participant’s effort
Stay active in the community
Supporting others is an important part of the challenge and overall fun of music.
Rules and Eligibility
To keep the competition fair and consistent, the following rules apply:
Trial Members
Members currently in their Masters trial period cannot win prizes until they become paid members.
They can still submit songs and participate, but prize eligibility begins once their paid membership starts.
Local Taxes
Giveaway prizes may be subject to taxes depending on your country.
Any tax or import duty is the responsibility of the winner.
Prize Limits
Members may win prizes in Battle of the Riffs prizes up to two (2) times per year.
On your second win, you will then have to wait 12 months before you can win again.
This rule ensures multiple members have the opportunity to earn recognition and rewards.
Need Help Understanding the Process?
If you have questions about judging, scoring, or eligibility, you can contact support here:
https://www.modernmetalacademy.com/support