Christopher L. Dittman - Lead vocalist Born 2/15 High Energy is the best way to describe the band, especially this charismatic singer. From the heaviness and raw power of 'Frustrated' and 'Nickel and Dime', to the haunting strains of 'Pray For Me' and the eerie A Capella of 'Bloodscent', Chris shows his wide vocal range. With his wireless mic, he spreads his energy not only on the stage, but amongst the crowd as well.

"I've been singing since I was seven. My early training consisted of Concert and Jazz choir, and participating in High School musicals. Since joining Defiant I've also learned a lot about the music business in the past six years. Early influences are various Blues based singers, and later influences include Sebastian Bach, Phil Anselmo, James Hetfield, and Geoff Tate. My goals are to go as far as I can, and of course, have as much fun as possible!"

Heath Cleek- Bass Guitarist/ Backing Vocals Born 5/07 Heath has a flair for hair as he head bangs his way through heavy bass lines, ripping up the stage with non-stop enthusiasm. Letting his fingers fly with his butt-kicking bass solo in "Monkey Business" by Skid Row, he proves that bass players can do more than ride an open "E"! As one of the founding members of Defiant, he shows that he's ready to give it everything!

"I originally started playing keyboards at the age of 12, and switched to bass at 17. I consider myself a band player. I have no specific influences, however you can hear over tones of Industrial music, Pantera, and Ozzy Osbourne. I'd like to be in the band that someday makes people say "Ozzy Who?"."

Kenny Betts- Drummer/ Percussionist Born 11/06 This talented drummer hits you with both power, and finesse. His experience shines through, as his techniques show a culmination of various styles. Always looking to have a good time, Kenny gives it everything he's got, and more times than not he surprises you with spur of the moment changes in a drum line.

"I started playing at the age of 17. I am a self taught musician and proud of it. Before joining Defiant, I played in three other bands. Two were 'Christian Rock' bands, and the other was a 'Progressive Rock' band, as well as previous recording with 'Phunn Records', an independent label. It was cool being signed, but it would be even better being signed with Defiant on another label. My influences include early Van Halen, and Kansas, as well as drummers Billy Cobham, and Steve Smith. In the 90's it has been bands like Metallica, Dream Theater, and Pantera."

Frederick H. Griest- Lead and Rhythm Guitars/ Backing Vocals Born 9/22 His antics on stage typifies the bands desire to have the most fun at shows. Growing up in a family full of musicians has given him the exposure that has shaped him as the guitarist that he is. A musician that has helped add another dimension to the realm of Defiant.

"I started to play at age 13. My influences are George Lynch, Eddie Van Halen, Glenn Cambell, and more recently Pantera and Metallica. My goal is to make one person appreciate my musical ability. Oh, and by the way, I want to be able to fill out my tax form as Occupation: Musician."

Equipment includes Kramer Focus Guitar, Fender Stratocaster, Digitech 21 Legend processor through a 15 band EQ and Mosvalve power amp into a Crate 4"x12" cabinet.

 

Paul Lancaster- Lead and Rythm guitars/ Backing vocals   "Phenom" comes to mind when watching this young guitar player. Defiant's newest editon brings lightning fingers and shredding solos to the stage. With sounds that are reminiscent of great 80's rock, yet heavy and melodic for the next millenium.

"I knew I wanted to be a guitarist the first time I heard Randy Rhoads. I started playing when I was six and was playing on stage by the age of fifteen. Other influences for me are Yngwie Malmsteen, Jake E. Lee, and Zakk Wylde. In the future I just want to take this as far as I can... especially to watch all the chicks dance!"

Equipment includes A.D.A. MP1 Classic, Rhoads Edition Jackson Guitars, Digitech DSP 128, DOD 31 Band EQ, Hafler G300 Power Amp, Laney Celestion 4x12 Cabinet

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 To contact Defiant, call Chris at 1-724-230-2588, or Heath at 1-724-775-1421

Or, if you would like to write to the guys, send your stuff to:

Defiant Fan Mail

P.O. Box 497