JR is short for James Rochester, which is short for singer/songwriter/sound mixer/guitar designer/maker and player, James Rochester. After spending time performing as a solo artist and with various bands throughout UK and Europe, JR returned to NZ and has spent the last few years hurtling around the country with his band The Cougar Studs – comprised of stellar musicians Maurice Beckett (Jakob/Desbot), Iain Riddle (Pearl/the Real Thing) and Matt Baker (RetroBates/ Undefeated). On May 24th, he releases his debut album Another Beginning, Another End.

Assisted by Ian Morris (The Dudes, Tex Pistol) on the mixing and mastering, Another Beginning, Another End showcases JR's musicianship as he plays all guitars, bass and keys on the album.

JR recently performed with fellow Hawkes Bay bands Jakob and Blvd Nights for a Cancer Fundraiser at the Cabana Bar, raising over $5000 for the charity. “When James Rochester rolled out his new band at the Cabana two weeks ago, they were so on fire paint was almost blistering off the walls and ceiling” Claire Hamlin, Napier Mail 2009.