DESCRIPTION:
Rights of the Accused - Cabaret Metro - Chicago

Rights of the Accused (called ROTA for short) was a Chicago band from approximately 1982 to 1992. The band was well known for their wacky live shows and funny lyrics. At some point around 1985 or so, the band's sound went from more of a punk sound to a metal sound.

Mike and Anthony, already friends, put up an ad at Wax Trax Records looking to start a band. Jay and "Perry" (who met shortly before at O'Banions), along with a bassist named "Ken" responded. Initially the three wanted Anthony and not Mike, but Perry didn't work out (for being a "Mommy's boy") and Mike was on board. Ken (a roommate of Sean Duffy), who only lasted a short time on bass, left and they put up another ad. Steve responded and you have the first "real" version of ROTA. At this point all the members (outside Steve who was a couple years older) were in high school, around 14-16. They played their first show on July 23, 1982 with Six Feet Under and DV8 at Cubby Bear. -- all info taken from an interview in Last Rites #1.

Michael O’Connell, Vocals (1982-1992)
Jay Yuenger, Guitar (1982-1987)
Anthony Illarde, Drums (1982-1987)
Steve Stepe, Bass (1982-1984)
Jan Maitland, Guitar (1984)
Tom Faulkner, Bass (1984-1988)
Brian St. Clair, Drums (1988-1992)
Herb Rosen, Bass (1988-1992)
Wes Kidd, Guitar (1985-1992)

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