Four Star Riot

By SLOBODAN JURIC
Published January 28, 2005

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Who's who: In their late 20s and early 30s, this 7-year-old quartet simply isn't complete without frontman Steve Alex, who plays guitar and sings; Finn Walling, who also plays guitar and sings; Johnny Deliz (born in Puerto Rico) plays bass; and Mike Chilton is on drums.

Forming of a riot: Originally called Soulsystem by Chilton and Alex in the late 1990s, Four Star Riot has released three CDs under the new name. The band is known for opening up for the first Next Best Thing in Clearwater.

And the name means what? We "thought it was a way to describe what we represent," says Alex. The band, who did an Internet search to make sure no one else had the name, also liked the ring of it.

Similar to: At live performances, audience members have said the band is reminiscent of Cheap Trick.

Style and genre: "Power rock or modern rock," according to Alex. "We're 97X type of rock." Overall the band's music is original, based primarily on past friendships and love. The Riot is proud to be in the genre of rock, yet its "diversity is multidimensional," as band members describe it, versatile enough for pop and reggae on the same stage.

Band's influence: 80s groups, including the Police and Rolling Stones, as well as Elvis Costello and John Lennon.

Random facts: Deliz is dating someone he met while performing at a gig, and Alex is the only married member. He has a 2-year-old son, Steven, and a 2-week-old son, Nicholas.

Next gig: Check out www.fourstarriot.com for the latest on performance dates.