...RIOT was formed in early 1976 in Brooklyn, New York. The band went through almost DEEP PURPLE-esque or RAINBOW-esque lineup changes, but what most consider the "classic" lineup was: Guy Speranza (Vocals), Mark Reale (Guitars), Rick Ventura (Guitars), Cliff "Kip" Leming (Bass), and Sandy Slavin (Drums). Guy left the band after the FIRE DOWN UNDER album and was replaced by Rhett Forrester for the next 3 releases. The band then broke up. Rhett Forrester put out his first solo album in 1986, with 2 of the members of legendary New York City band THE RODS. Rhett was murdered on Jan. 22nd, 1994 in Atlanta. In 1987 sole original member Mark Reale re-started the band, with some musicians from Texas, as a 4 piece (they are now a 5 piece again). The latest incarnation of the band is still signed, and continues to release albums to this day.
Source: http://www.grndzero.com/riot.htm
