Nova Rex: Ain't Easy Being Cheesy

Of all the bands to emerge from the hair metal era, Nova Rex aren't exactly among the leading lights, so it's surprising that they merit their own "rockumentary" from director Dean Robinson, who got to know the group as the editor of a local Indianapolis metal magazine called HiJinx. After a quick trip through the band's past, Robinson catches up with the core duo in Florida in 2010 as they prepare for a comeback tour to support a greatest hits collection. Kenny Wilkerson (bass), who grew up in Indiana, and Canada-raised Italian J.P. Cervoni (guitar) are not as svelte as they used to be (and have wisely ditched the spandex), but they seem as eager to rock as ever (Cervoni cracks that with their makeup and bleached hair they used to look like Morgan Fairchild). While preparing for the tour, the pair recall their days in L.A., just when hair metal was fading, and Indianapolis, where they built up a following. Although they never signed to a major label, Nova Rex did attract their share of female admirers. Unfortunately, vocalists tended to come and go (such as Kevin Tetz, who became a DJ), and by the 1990s—with grunge taking off—the band decided to pack it in. Other speakers here include artist manager Mark Wolfson and metal fan Desiree Chambers (although it isn't clear whether Chambers had any interest in Nova Rex since she speaks in general terms). Regional collections may want to consider, but this is optional elsewhere. (K. Fennessy)