In June, we gave you a heads up about Antiwarpt, the Warped Tour alternative, on our sister site, 727area.com (could we have fit any more links just now?). The event, which takes place on Saturday, July 28 in Downtown St. Pete, will feature artists from all over Florida playing at several venues, a la the multi-stage Warped Tour set-up.
Maybe you've heard of a few of these 99 bands, as some already have a strong local following, but for those in the dark, we decided to give you a preview of a handful of the Tampa Bay area bands you can see there.
The Groves
The Groves is a Tampa band made up of members Justin Thomas Brown (guitar and vocals), Travis Bourguginon (guitar), Jana Jones (bass), and Lane Smith (drums).
They describe their music as "ambient folk-rock, rock 'n' roll, with a southern flair", a rather accurate description that holds true, no matter which song you listen to.
This is the first time The Groves has played Antiwarpt, and they're stoked, but they are no stranger to the Tampa music scene. They are known to frequent New World Brewery, Crowbar, and The State Theatre, but have also played larger venues and shows, like The Straz Center, Jannus Live, and Gasparilla Music Festival.
In addition to the excitement of playing Antiwarpt for the first time, The Groves is looking forward to playing alongside the other bands, and the opportunity to meet new fans. "We have a great slot on the outdoor stage and the exposure is going to be substantial."
When asked if there is anything The Groves wants Antiwarpt attendees to know about the band, they leave us with this: "We are releasing our second record at the end of August. We really want people to understand the purity of our music. Purity, meaning not affected. What we do is authentic and a product of our relationship as band members."
To keep in touch with The Groves' goings-on and hear their music, check out The Groves Facebook page and The Groves website. You can also buy their album, 'In Season', on iTunes.
Now that you and The Groves are the best of friends, keep up to date with them on Facebook, give their songs a listen, and be sure to check them out at Antiwarpt on July 28 in Downtown St. Pete.
