[from your web browser click "File" then "Print" or click "Save As" for storage] Island Groovin' Bio ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Island Groovin', formerly known as Island Fever of Los Angeles, is the finest and most exciting steel drum band in all of Southern California! Their dynamic performances come alive with a mix of Caribbean calypso, soca, reggae and a variety of tropical favorites as well as rock, funk, oldies and jazz. This incredibly versatile group skillfully blends the beauty of the steel drums with the rhythm of the islands and their rich vocal harmonies to give you a truly unique and intoxicating sound! This talented band, containing the highest caliber, professional musicians, always lives up to its well-earned reputation for providing the finest combination of musical quality and professional entertainment. You can count on their fun-filled performance to transform your special event into a happy and festive party! Appearing in traditional tropical attire, Island Groovin' is available as a one to six-piece band to perfectly enhance small occasions to grand events. Island Groovin' was formed in 1995 by renowned steel drummer, Frank Fakinos (internationally known as "Coconut Frank"). He has studied music extensively around the world and, over the years, has performed for approximately 5,000 events. With this invaluable experience he knows that every event and every client is unique. He will work directly with you and customize a performance to fit your special needs and tastes. One reason for his success is his dedication to providing unmatched personal care. In addition, his natural talent and enthusiasm as Band Leader and Master of Ceremonies have earned him acclaim from clients and peers alike. It is well known that all steel drum bands are NOT the same, and Island Groovin' continually proves itself to be the best of them all! Since its formation, Island Groovin' has proudly received an overwhelming response from audiences of all ages. For instance, in 1997 they were awarded "Best Band" by the city of Lake Forest. In 1998, after separate concerts in the cities of Orange, Tustin, Placentia and Santa Fe Springs, the band's shows were declared the "Best of the Year" for each city. In 1999 Fakinos performed for three weeks in Bora Bora at the island's top five-star resort. In 2000 and 2001 this popular band was featured in the Orange County Register in full-page stories about great music, summer festivities and having fun! Recently, Fakinos traveled to Hawaii as a special guest entertainer at the world class Four Seasons Resort. Of course, the best proof of their success -- hundreds and hundreds of repeat clients! One key to the group's popularity is their amazing energy and enthusiasm and the ability to make everyone feel as though they are truly in the Caribbean. Both listener and dancer alike are overcome with huge smiles! The players spent a month in Trinidad & Tobago, the birth place of the steel drum, for the annual steel drum festival. This award winning band is now more excited than ever to share with you the contagious spirit and passion of the islands! Dedicated to providing the finest and "funnest" in music entertainment, Island Groovin' will make any event a huge success!