Rite Bastards
Rite Bastards was a band of guitarist / vocalist John Connelly (from Nuclear Assault fame).
preface
Nuclear Theory
Somewhere in the middle 1990's (probably around 1995-96), John found himself in New London, Connecticut at this time after the release and tour supporting Nuclear Assualt's album "Something Wicked". He formed a new solo project combining the names of his previous solo project and Nuclear Assault, with the premise being that the band would concentrate on work from both as well as work on new material. Local musicians Pat Vitagliano (lead guitar), Tony O'Brien (bass), and Tom Maynard (drummer).
The new material was heavy guitar oriented music combining elements of punk, thrash, and speed metal with some blues thrown in occasionally. The setlist contained the songs "L. H. A", "Aggressive", "7/8 Solution" from John Connelly Theory and "Another Violent End", "Behind Glass Walls" and "Hang The Pope" from Nuclear Assault's catalog. During September of 1996, Pat left. Chris Boix took over lead guitar. Nuclear Theory opened for Brutal Truth in December of 1996, with Dan Lilker joining in for "Hang the Pope". The band relocated to Pawcatuck, CT. On May 14, 1997 John reunited with Glenn Evans, Dan Lilker and Anthony Bramante for one Nuclear Assault show at the Colosseum in Manchester, NH. Also in early 1997, Nuclear Theory played at the Living Room in Providence, RI. Both of these shows were made possible with the help of Eric Paone of Candy Striper Death Orgy.
This was the last gig for the band as Nuclear Theory.
Rite Bastards
While Jonh was manager of GNC (Crystal Mall, Waterford, CT), he formed a 3 piece line up called Rite Bastards in 1999. The line up consisted of John on guitar and lead vocals, Tony O'Brian (bassist / backing vocals), and Tom Maynard (drums). Not long after, Tom left the band and was replaced by Jim Villano. During this time they recorded a demo CD with songs titled, "Carmen", "Oh Why", "Other Man's Song" and 3 others.
They played in Boston at a club with Overkill, and Stash's Cafe in New London CT with 86 Aspartame during October 1999 (coincidentally, BOTH bands last show).
John had played a reunion show with Nuclear Assault and when he came back, he asked the band if they would like to be the new Nuclear Assault. Tony and Jim declined.
Shortly after, John reformed Nuclear Assault.
members
- John Connelly, vocals, guitar
- Tony O'Brien, bass, backup vocals
- Tom Maynard, Drums (original)
- Jim Villano, Drums (replacement)
