Chet O’Connell and the ‘Rock & Roll Riot’ is an explosive performance of 50’s and 60’s rock n roll, with a Rock a Billy twist!

The ‘Rock & Roll Riot’ is the first point of call for festivals and Rock & Roll Hops, and always delivers exceptional entertainment.

Driven’ by their love of good music with an extensive repertoire, you are guaranteed to walk away wanting more!

Chet has been performing on the live scene for 39 years, and this line up of the band has been working together for over 20 years. Many highlights include 3 Australasian tours with Gerry Marsden as the ‘Pacemakers’ and a host of tours in the mid 2000’s.

Influenced by country rock, rock & roll and guitar drivin’ music, the ‘Rock & Roll Riot’ deliver music they love and believe in.

This band is a dynamic entertainment package, determined to entertain and get people on the dance floor through their choice of classic music, onstage energy, and expertise. Taking you back to the days when rock n roll was king, the ‘Rock & Roll Riot’ will have you dancing the night away!

Chet O’Connell – Guitar / Vocals

Chet is one of New Zealand’s finest performers, constantly in demand for live and studio work. His vast musical ability has enabled him to move around the music scene with ease constantly in demand as a live performer, and in the studio.

It’s that ease and dexterity that sees Chet in constant demand on the touring circuit and in the studio. The professionalism, passion and energy he brings to his music make him the first point of call for several top entertainers in New Zealand and on the international stage.

Melissa O’Connell – Vocals

Melissa has a voice that makes you sit up and listen! She spent many years performing throughout NZ and Australia and sings with a passion that shows her love of music and performance. Her versatility means she can cover anything from groovy acoustic ballads, country and rock & roll to classic rock and pop.

A powerhouse vocalist who is on point every time.

Neil Hannan – Bass / Vocals

Neil Hannan, a Bassist and Producer with a broad resume of music, having played every type of gig from Rock to Classical and Jazz to Country. Has done a mass of session work and years of experience in live music. Plays or played Bass in many popular NZ bands including Coup d’Etat, Hello Sailor, Hammond Gamble Band, Midge Marsden Band to name a few.

Johnny Scott – Drums

Johnny Scott has lived and breathed the Drums since he was 17 years old.

From the Clubs of Sydney to the streets of Auckland, Johnny emersed himself in the live scene working with a host of local and international artists.

From original artists to covers bands and festivals, Johnny has travelled extensively keeping the beat, and playing with passion and power that shows his love of the music.