Five weeks of competition across three venues ended with a Filipino act standing alone on the final night in JBR. Brio Band was declared Grand Winner of the Jim Beam–sponsored Battle of the Bands on February 11, 2026, at Lock, Stock & Barrel JBR, following a month-long series of elimination rounds held in Barsha Heights, Business Bay and JBR.
The group advanced to the finals after topping the second “Hits” week, securing a spot among the last contenders. By the time the final results were announced, the venue had turned into what members described as a full concert atmosphere, with supporters loudly backing the band as judges delivered the verdict.
For the six-piece ensemble, the win carried added weight. They were the only Filipino act in the competition. Mickey, who joined the group as male vocalist specifically for the battle, said the goal extended beyond trophies.
“Our main intention is to showcase that FILIPINO talents are exceptional and will surely blow away your experience in music,” he said.
The band’s lineup during the contest featured Reyyan on lead vocals, Yna on vocals, Ej on guitar, JayC on bass, Mhon on drums and Jarris on keyboard, with Mickey stepping in as male frontman. The collaboration came together quickly. Members had known Mickey for only about a month and a half before deciding to compete.
Their connection began during a jam night at Lock, Stock & Barrel Barsha Heights hosted by Filipino performer Rina Olis. According to the band, the chemistry was immediate, marked by similar stage energy and rapport with audiences. The decision to enter the competition followed soon after.
Brio performed one cover and four original tracks in the finals. Their rendition of “Kiss” by Prince opened the set, reworked into a lively, funk-driven arrangement that set the tone for the evening. The remaining numbers were original pop-rock compositions: “Black Rose,” inspired by women’s empowerment; “Freedom,” centered on free will and release; “Vague,” about clarifying one’s direction in life; and “Stone Heart,” which explores accepting emotional realities.
Judges and audience response, the band said, affirmed their musical direction. The group described the moment of victory as overwhelming.
“All of the hard work, effort and sleepless nights paid off when we hear the announcement of our band name as the Grand Winner,” Mickey said. “Highest number of crowd rooted for us and it was like a proper concert crowd shouting and making noise while we were awarded. It was ecstatic and very satisfying.”
The path to that stage was compressed and demanding. With only a week before the first elimination round, the band had to compose and arrange original material from scratch. They initially prepared two songs, planning to expand the repertoire only if they reached the final round. As they progressed, two additional originals were completed in time.
Another hurdle surfaced just before the finals when vocalist Joy fell ill with fever and cough brought on by changing weather conditions. Despite the setback, she went onstage and delivered the performance as planned, which the group said reinforced their determination to compete at full strength.
Brio Band traces its beginnings to 2022, following the members’ transition from Rocky’s Café Rayyan, Mhon, Ej, JayC, Akhi and Krissa. The move signaled a new phase focused on building a distinct identity. Originally performing under the name Paragon Beat, they later adopted the name “Brio,” chosen for its connotation of energy and vitality.
In July 2023, the band began regular performances at Jules, gradually strengthening its presence in Dubai’s live entertainment circuit. Over time, the lineup evolved, with Jarris officially joining as keyboardist on March 4, 2024. Guest singers and collaborators also worked with the group, expanding its repertoire and adaptability.
Today, Brio markets itself as a versatile, high-energy band suited for lounges, corporate events and private functions. The group currently performs three consecutive nights from Wednesday to Friday at High-So, Citymax Al Barsha.
Following the competition victory, the band has temporarily paused live appearances during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Performances are expected to resume after the season, with updates to be shared through their social media channels.
Looking ahead, Brio plans to record its original compositions and develop a full album to distribute across digital platforms. The project, members said, is intended to define the band’s musical identity and broaden its reach beyond the live circuit.
For Mickey, the battle marked not only a competitive milestone but also the start of a larger ambition. The group aims to establish itself in Dubai’s music scene as a Filipino act capable of delivering a fully versatile and distinctive live entertainment experience.
