Australia's new rock standard for excellence

Prior to Rock Star: Supernova Juke Kartel were like any other band trying to carve a niche in the cut throat business of rock and roll. With the notable exception of being a talented bunch of guys, friends since childhood and a few noteworthy runs on the board (they had opened for Nickelback for the Australian leg of their tour).

Consisting of Dale Winters and Todd Burman on guitars, Tommy Kende on bass, Eddie Murphy on drums they also had an outgoing and charismatic lead singer in the shape of Toby Rand.

His on stage talent and vocal abilities saw him good enough to successfully audition for the second series of Rock Star. On the show he was a runaway success. Seemingly unstoppable. Many would argue that he was robbed of his rightful place as the winner of the reality rock competition. His consistency and high praise week in and week out seemed to matter little compared to the Emo Flavour Of The Month novelty act that they deigned to be the leader of the manufactured super group.

Despite the disappointment the fans quickly realised that Supernova's loss was their gain. They could keep enjoying Toby and his larrikin ways without him having to change or cater for a band and a brand which may have dictated or directed his personality and style. Not to mention kick starting a new era of Juke Kartel with international exposure that most bands can only dream of.