Ballistic Tim O'Connor - Bass Guitar
Tim actually started out playing drums in concert band in Junior High School. After a year or so of appreciating the music he found the desire to play a more "musical" instrument. When a neighbor turned him on to Yes' version of "America", he immediately noticed Chris Squire's unique bass guitar that stood out in the song and was completely blown away by the unpredictable dynamic playing he heard. He knew then he wanted to play bass. Growing up he learned all of the influential music strictly by ear and claims to have worn out at least a half dozen tape decks and CD players in the process.

Once old enough to frequent the local bar/band scene, he saw what was then the hottest, and by far the most unique metal band in the area (Deuce...soon to be Tension) fronted by none other than Tom Gattis. He saw the energy and professionalism the band portrayed and admired the unique and sincere style of writing in the music. He would hang out after the shows and talk to the members of Deuce and quickly became friends with guitarist Timmy Meadows. After about a year Meadows mentioned to Tim that their bass player was quitting and they had just signed a record deal. He asked Tim to try out for the band. Tim was still pretty "green" at the time and felt intimidated but decided to give it a shot. The band seemed to like his playing and asked him to join. About a year later Breaking Point was released. Although the album seemed to be praised from fans and critics, promotional efforts had much to be desired. The band members found themselves arguing, losing interest and finally splitting. Tim got a bad taste in his mouth with that experience and decided to go back to school. He continued to play bass in a local band with his brother but wasn't too keen on gambling his career on what he thought was such a "shaky business". There was talk throughout the next few years of a Tension reunion, but that never happened.

After more than a decade later of the Tension split and Tom's efforts with Wardog, Tom

Tim O'Connor - Bass Guitar
contacted Tim again to see if he would be interested in his new Ballistic project. He heard the practice tape from Tom and again liked what he heard! Tim learned a great deal from Tom in the past and has great respect for Tom's style and his incredible ability to challenge him with his catchy, intricate, and unexpected key changing writing capabilities. He accepted Tom's invitation and flew out to rehearse. After just a few minutes of "warming up" with newly introduced member, Michael, Tim knew it was good! Michael's incredibly clear and punctual drumming brought back the "fire" Tim has missed since the Tension days.
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