Arts & Entertainment

Teens Rock Geckofest

One year ago, the teen band Circle 4 made their "big break" at Geckofest in Gulfport. The group graced the stage again with a mix of rock and blues.

Thirty thousand people descended upon downtown Gulfport at this year's Geckofest celebration on Saturday, Sept.1. The 12th annual event featured dozens of vendors, live entertainers and three stages with live music. Bands from across Tampa Bay brought people to their feet.

Classic tunes by Stevie Wonder, Led Zeppelin and even Jimi Hendrix could be heard from the main stage by one energetic group. Although the musicians of Circle 4 weren't even born when songs on their set list soared to the top of music charts, they're hoping music genres from the past "circle" back around.

High school students George Pennington, 16, Nick Lopez, 17, and Chance Hugus, 16, have been playing together for years. Pennington is on lead guitar and vocals, Lopez plays bass and Hugus plays the drums.

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Lopez says their first big break was at last year's Geckofest.

Gulfport Resident Leslie Gilcrest first hired the group about 5 years ago when they were in middle school. Since then, the group's been back by popular demand.

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"They are very talented amazing musicians and entertainers! They play Jimi Hendrix, need I say more?" Gilcrest said.

Watch our video interviews to learn more about the group's musical style. The group has calendar information, songs and more on ReverbNation. Also, feel free to "like" Circle 4's Facebook page.

Circle 4's next performance is on Saturday, Sept. 8 at Gaspar's Grotto, 1805 East 7th Ave in Tampa.


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