As is by now established custom, Budapest Ritmo begins by offering the stage to up and coming artists from Hungary and its region. The showcase day at Szimpla gives a free sample of six bands at the beginning of their career, and the doorstep to international recognition. They get 40 minutes each to convince a select group of world music professionals, and the curious Ritmo crowd. For many, as is the case with last year’s performers Times New Román, it really is the first step of an international career.