The 12 oz. Prophets are:
Joe Orcino - Lead Vocals
Nick Thompson - Bass Guitar, Vocals
Bill Immer - Rhythm Guitar
Eric Powell - Lead Guitar
Vijoy Rao - Drums, Percussion, Vocals

Pulling from musical backgrounds of all kinds, this unique five-piece band creates a bluesy, groovy, edgey, soul-flavored rock that takes audiences for a ride to the outer limits of possibility. Gaining a reputation for their tireless live performances, the 12 oz. Prophets challenge mainstream rock and explore new musical avenues.

12ozP tackles the constant task of re-inventing themselves to keep things fresh and new for fans and for themselves. They have earned TV coverage on a local and national basis and can be heard on local radio stations.

Consisting of Joe Orcino (lead vocals), Bill Immer (rhythm guitar), Eric Powell (lead guitar), Nick Thompson, Jr. (bass guitar, vocals) and Vijoy Rao (drums, percussion, vocals), the 12 oz. Prophets exude an eclectic sound from inspirations including The Black Crowes, Led Zeppelin, The Doors, The Police, and U2.

If you are looking for soul-intoxicating music that will bend you, move you, shake you and groove you, look no further...the 12 oz. Prophets are here.

Joe developed his interest for music at a very young age. He was often found near the piano with brothers Jeff and Dave entertaining guests at family gatherings. With guidance from vocal instructor Margaret Davis, Joe jumpstarted his passion for singing and a cultivated a deep respect for those who have revolutionized the art.

Three bands and hundreds of gigs later, Joe agreed to join the 12 oz. Prophets and continues to play a large part in the re-inventing of the band. Having been rooted in “heavier” bands in the past, Joe brings his vocal power and commanding presence to the soulful progressive rock of 12ozP.

Contact Joe:
Joe@12ozProphets.com

Nick began his musical career at age 15. Having developed a deep passion for music, he began as a keyboard player in a local garage band. He eventually moved to the bass guitar and has found his comfort zone in creating the groove and rhythmic foundation which the 12oz. Prophets are known for.

Nick is knows for his dedication to investing all his energy into each performance. His musical background allows him to interweave blues, punk, rock, and jazz grooves within the band’s versatile set list and allows 12ozP to explore all dynamics of creating music.

Nick plays:
Schecter Diamond Series Bass Guitar
Ampeg 2x10 250w Portabass Amplifier

Contact Nick:
Nick@12ozProphets.com

Although Bill always had the talent and desire to become an accomplished musician, it took a while for him to find his true calling. Growing up, he decided to test his creativity and became a violinist in the 5th and 6th grade orchestra. He moved on to the flute in high school. Why the flute? “Because I walked to school and wanted something light!”

Finally, when he was just 17 years old, Bill found the guitar. Rather the guitar found Bill. Bill was grounded by his parents (due to undisclosed events) for several weeks and was getting bored. A friend offered to lend him one of his guitars to help pass the time. Bill learned how to play ‘Dust in the Wind’ by Kansas and he hasn’t been able to put a guitar down since.

Bill decided to share his talents with a band in early 2000, but was having trouble finding the right musicians to collaborate with. He opted to make himself available for a band to find him. Bill was contacted in early 2001 and joined the effort of the 12oz. Prophets.

Bill plays:
Gibson Les Paul Classic Guitar
Fender Deluxe Amplifier

Contact Bill:
Bill@12ozProphets.com

Eric has been playing guitar for over 20 years - more like the guitar has been playing him. Having a musical background consisting of heavy metal acts to pop-oriented bands, Eric’s open mind has allowed him to excel at all kinds of styles.

Eric has enjoyed much local success and is well-recognized within the St. Louis, MO music scene and was initially invited to fill the temporarily open slot of lead guitar in the 12 oz. Prophets.

He soon found comfort in the freedom the music gave him to express his style and skills to their fullest level. Eric became a permanent member of the band in mid 2003 and has refreshed the band’s attitude towards creating music that is unique and diverse.

Eric plays:
Gibson SG Guitar
Vox Amplifier

Contact Eric:
Eric@12ozProphets.com

During grade school, Vijoy was listening to groups such as Genesis, the Talking Heads, and The Police and discovering his passion for rhythm. Creating rhythms of his own was the natural next step.

Vijoy picked up his first pair of drumsticks when he was just 9 years old and has yet to put them down. He has played in several bands throughout the years, including Previous Engagement, Kid Wiggum, The Rhythm Circus, and The Loaded Kings.

Vijoy was approached in 2001 to join the effort in building the 12 oz. Prophets and has since found a home within the music that is created and shared within the band.

Vijoy has released a self-produced solo album in late 2001 entitled Catharsis, and is also the singer and guitar player for St. Louis-based band, Plum Tucker (www.plumtucker.com).

Vijoy plays:
Gretsch Catalina Birch 6-piece Drumkit
Zildjian Cymbals
8” Avedis Splash
10” Avedis Splash
12” A Custom Splash
14” Avedis Quick Beat Hihats
17” Avedis Medium Thin Crash
18” Avedis China Boy Low
20” K Heavy Ride

Contact Vijoy:
Vijoy@12ozProphets.com