4th ANNUAL SPRINGS PLAZA CHALLENGE | SATURDAY FEBRUARY 22
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More isn't always better! Unless you're talking about finely hand-crafted beers and cocktails! Okay, sometimes more is better, but what we're talking about here is QUALITY. Technically we can't guarantee the quality of the drinks either. But we can confidently say that there WILL be drink specials—possibly. If I'm being honest, we're not really sure—frankly this thing really isn't that well organized. (Check back soon.)
Catapult Rides is an Orlando-based indie rock trio delivering “retrofied originals.” Combining the nostalgia of ’90s and ’00s rock with the energy of modern alternative, their music is a captivating blend of catchy hooks, thoughtful lyrics, and harmonies that have been called “somewhat pleasing.”
Contractually bound to rehearse nearly once a week, Catapult Rides consists of friends Jerry Eisen (Guitar, Vocals), Felipe Torres (Guitar, Bass, Vocals), and Matt Wilkinson (Drums, Vocals). The band’s chemistry, honed over literally months of collaboration, is evident in their many accolades. Gracing stages across the greater Orlando area, such as The Abbey and Stardust Cafe, Catapult Rides has been described by friends and family as “surprisingly good” and “better than expected.”
Currently in the studio, they plan to release their first EP in early 2025. For band updates, including shows, new music, and exclusive content, follow them on Instagram or Facebook (@CatapultRides) or listen to their demos on SoundCloud.
Fiendish Thingies, a Tampa-based rock duo featuring brothers Riley and Austin Stanley, is set to kick off the new year with the release of their double single, “The Wait”/“That’s Why” on January 1. Known for their high-energy blend of alternative rock, indie, and blues, the duo has been a staple of Tampa’s live music scene, drawing fans with their dynamic performances.
Graduates of Riverview High and Florida universities, Riley and Austin have been playing music together since childhood. After countless hours honing these tracks and performing them live, they’re excited to share the result of their hard work. “We’re proud of what we’ve created,” says Austin.
The double single offers a fresh yet familiar sound, marking a new chapter for the band while staying true to their roots. Stream the new tracks on all major platforms and follow @fiendishthingiesband on Instagram for updates.
Visionary. Transcendent. Storied. These words are saved for people and events that come along only once in a generation. Legitimately, those words don't apply here.
While others dreamed big, our founders Chris and Bill day-dreamed small. Untethered to convention, they had a shared vision for an event so ambitious, so misguided and frankly, at minimum, mildly concerning. A marathon of sorts, to tackle every bar in the esteemed Springs Plaza—a strip mall renowned for having… well, about five bars.
What started as a noble protest against the status quo has evolved into an annual 12-hour odyssey of friendship, beer, and regrettable life choices. This year, for our 4th Annual Springs Plaza Challenge, we’re taking it up a notch with live music—a Plazapalooza, if you will. Because this great endurance event deserves the best local bands willing to work for tips.
From its humble beginnings as a simple pub crawl, The Springs Plaza Challenge has become a gathering for friends, family, and anyone who thinks they've got what it takes. So put on your big-boy pants, hydrate irresponsibly, and become a part of this honored tradition—one unlike...well, very much like every other pub crawl.
But it's not just a pub crawl—nay it’s a CHALLENGE! And, frankly, it’s a miracle we’ve made it this far.