Zebron and James
The 24th annual Apollo Beach Manatee Festival of the Arts is only days away, and the musical lineup is nothing less than spectacular. The Festival is the area’s premiere event, where visitors can enjoy more than 100 vendors, artwork, music, food and kids activities. It will be held on March 12 and 13 at E.G. Simmons Park in Ruskin.
Here is the lineup of musical acts that will perform throughout the weekend:
Local musicians Zebron and James offer up a mix of acoustic stylings (including rock, Southern rock, country and classic rock), blazing lead guitar and powerful vocals. Formed in June 2009, Zebron and James are primed and ready to jam.
The Taylor John Trio, with roots and history in Chicago and New York blues, was founded in 2013 by singer and pianist Taylor John, drummer Phil Werner and guitarist Ken Budd — a trio of regular 9-to-5 guys. Their passion, influence and talent is apparent from the very first time you join them for a performance.
Victoria Ginty and Ladyhawke is a Tampa Bay-area band fronted by the multi-instrumental BMG Critique Records recording artist Victoria Ginty of Apollo Beach. The band is known for its interesting blend of blues, rock, R&B, country, jazz, gospel and Americana. Formed in winter 2014-2015, the band features Ginty on vocals, guitar and fiddle; Mike Ivey on bass and vocals; Bob Nesbitt, drums and percussion; Tim Costello, lead guitar and vocals; and Wayne Cornelius, tenor sax and vocals.
The Life of the Party band (L.O.T.P.) considers itself to be more than just a group of talented musicians; rather, a statement of complete musical freedom. They pride themselves on being highly versatile musicians able to adapt to any party crowd. They captivate the audience through engaging live music, playing everything from Top 40, R&B, hip hop, blues, Motown, funk, reggae, soul, smooth jazz and neo soul.
Emily Joy is a singer-songwriter and guitarist from Central Florida, performing original material and select covers from various artists, including Taylor Swift, Alessia Cara and Vance Joy.
Renee Giaccone is a folk and acoustic rock singer-songwriter based in St. Petersburg, who has been singing for most of her life and writing since 2008. Much of Giaccone’s music relates life experiences and exhibits an appreciation for the opportunity to glean wisdom from any situation. She has put her classical vocal training and melodic guitar playing to good use by writing songs with relatable, heartfelt lyrics and haunting melodies. Her vocal style ranges from soulful expression to ethereal reflection.
Emily Joy
Broken Taillight is an all-original music band based in St. Petersburg that plays pop, rock and indie. Influences include the Gin Blossoms, Buffalo Tom and Toad the Wet. Band members include Steve Passo on vocals and acoustic guitar; Mike Dema, electric guitar; Rob “Hans” Jolowski, drums; and Joseph Patner, bass guitar.
Evan Koteles is a Tampa-based singer-songwriter who describes his genre as indie/country. Starting out as lead guitarist for his last band, 10th Concession, Koteles is currently taking on a more acoustic lead-singer role when performing with his new band. His writing covers all sorts of topics, from graduating and getting your first job (“3 Weeks From Corporate”) to drinking on your lunch break at that new job (“Office Buzz”). His solo debut record is scheduled to be released in early 2016
Joe Zuniga is a Grammy award-winning band from Tampa, playing Latin, Grupero, Tejano, and regional Mexicano music. Reflecting on his past musical experience, Zuniga wanted to create a new Grupero style that would attract different Latino nationalities. Born in Miami, Fla., he currently commutes between homes in Monterrey, Mexico, and Tampa.
Renee Giaccone
The Manatee Festival of the Arts will be held Saturday, March 12, through Sunday, March 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at E. G. Simmons Park, 2401 19th Ave. N.W., in Ruskin. For more information, call the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce at 813-645-1366, or visit southshorechamberofcommerce.org.
