Capt Hirams Resort is set to host a musical showdown dubbed the Battle of the Bands on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. The event will feature five competing bands: Forte, FYRE Insyde, Group Therapy, Jesse and the Thieves, and Powerhouse 2.0.
These groups will engage in a spirited contest, vying for the grand prize—a year-long residency at Capt Hirams Resort, which includes one paid performance per month throughout 2024. The bands will be evaluated based on their visual stage presence, musical prowess, and the audience’s reaction.
Powerhouse 2.0
Powerhouse 2.0 (shown in the main picture above) is a high-energy band that performs multiple styles 70’s, 80’s, and 2000’s. They are a highly acclaimed cover four-piece band from Tampa, Florida, known for their exceptional performances and talented members.
Roxxy Diamond, the lead singer, is widely regarded as the best in Central Florida, with a powerful voice that can effortlessly handle a wide range of genres. Benny’s thundering drums, Sergio’s bass and keyboard skills, and Dave’s shredding guitar all come together to create an exhilarating and authentic sound.
The band’s repertoire includes covers of popular rock, pop, classic rock, and modern songs, many of which they have made with unique styles and interpretations. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits or current chart-toppers, Powerhouse 2.0 is guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable performance.
Forte
Forte brings a vibrant fusion of Rock, Blues, Funk, Country, and Folk to the stage, elevating classic covers with their impressive instrumentals and rich four-part harmonies. The sibling duo, Daniel and Corey Forte, officially formed the band in November 2020, channeling their lifelong synergy into a serious musical endeavor.
With an eclectic playlist that spans various eras and styles, they infuse each song with a unique twist that reflects their own artistic flair. At the core of Forte is a deep-seated passion for music—not just to play tunes but to excel at every performance.
“4 part harmonies are featured on many songs. We try to do every song the justice it deserves. We want to win the Battle of the Bands at Capt Hiram’s because we want the opportunity to rock out to our best abilities in front of a crowd we know would appreciate it,” band member Corey Forte told Sebastian Daily.
FYRE Insyde
FYI Insyde hails from Orlando as a purveyor of Rock and Roll. The band’s lineup features Oscar G laying down the bass, Felix Fruciente shredding on the guitar, Chrix Christian on the beat with the drums, and the charismatic RockStar G commanding the vocals.
“We are not looking to Win Anything. We believe being the only original act to compete is a WIN itself. We are excited to expand our Raise Your Hands Tour 2023 to Sebastian and the great venue at Captain Hiram’s,” band member RockStarG stated.
Group Therapy
Group Therapy is Sebastian’s own ensemble, known for their gigs at local spots such as Mash Monkeys Brewing Co., CC’s Place, Sebastian Inlet State Park, Riverside Cafe, and various Riverview Park festivals.
This quartet delivers a broad spectrum of timeless hits, spanning Country to Rock. Committed to their musical artistry, they hold regular practice sessions to perfect their sound.
Wayne Hall and Duane Marshall met while working together at AT&T locally and are both now happily retired. Kenny Wilson contributes his experience with successful bands in Pennsylvania before moving to Florida. Mark Carabia, the group’s leader, plays rhythm guitar and lead vocals.
“We live where people vacation. I want to win because Capt Hirams is well known for atmosphere, entertainment, and food. The opportunity to play music with my friends in my hometown of 20 years in front of all the people who choose to visit our great city would be an absolute honor,” Carabia told Sebastian Daily.
Jesse and the Thieves
Jesse and the Thieves, a quartet from Vero Beach, delivers a dynamic mix of classic and contemporary hits suitable for any party atmosphere. This traditional rock ‘n’ roll ensemble has been united for four years, honing their craft with weekly rehearsals and lighting up stages 2-3 times a month.
Their performance venues range from festivals and events to popular local spots in Vero Beach and Fort Pierce. The band’s motivation to win the Battle of the Bands stems from their fantastic experience performing at Capt Hirams in August.
They’re eager to recreate that exhilarating atmosphere and come out on top.
“The crowd/patrons were absolutely welcoming of our band, and everyone had a great time. We want to come back and party with the fine folks at Hiram’s,” The band told Sebastian Daily.
This will be a family-friendly event, and audience participation is encouraged.