Meet the band

Chris 'CC' Cresswell, lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist of The Charlie Tango Project

CC

Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Production

Chris "CC" Cresswell is a highly experienced musician hailing from Wellington, New Zealand, with a career that has inclued gigs in New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, and London. He has shared the stage with high-profile New Zealand artists such as Dave Dobbyn, The Exponents, the late Dave McCartney, and Graham Brazier. CC's musical journey began in his early years, starting with the humble recorder, before progressing to the clarinet and playing in jazz orchestras. Eventually, his focus shifted to the guitar, and it was there that he found his true voice as a musician.

CC’s musical influences are rooted in the rich sounds of 70s and 80s rock, with iconic artists like Simple Minds, Tears for Fears, Icehouse, Def Leppard, George Michael, and Robert Plant.

 

Phill Adams, drummer and producer of The Charlie Tango Project, seated at his drum kit in the studio

Phill Adams

Drums, Percussion, Production, Mix Engineer

Phill Adams is a renowned music producer, engineer, and drummer, best known for owning and operating Matrix Digital, a highly regarded recording studio located in Wellington, New Zealand. With a career spanning several decades, Phill has worked on an impressive range of projects, from high-profile sessions with Disney, James Cameron, and Lisa Kudrow, to a wide variety of independent and local artists. As a drummer, Phill brings both technical skill and creative flair to his work, and he plays a pivotal role in The Charlie Tango Project’s debut album, Life in the Sky. Not only did he lay down all of the drum tracks, but he also contributed to the recording, mixing, and co-production alongside CC. 

Olivia Marie, guest vocalist for The Charlie Tango Project, singing during a live performance

Olivia Marie

Vocals

Olivia Marie is a highly skilled and versatile vocalist with a career spanning over 20 years. She is currently touring with the renowned Fleetwood Mac tribute show, captivating audiences with her dynamic vocal performances. In addition to her work with Fleetwood Mac, Olivia was a founding member of The Pink Floyd Experience, New Zealand's legendary tribute show that has brought the iconic sounds of Pink Floyd to life for years. Known for her remarkable vocal range and stage presence, Olivia has earned a reputation as one of New Zealand’s finest singers. 

Gary 'The Gaz' Taylor, keyboardist for The Charlie Tango Project, playing synthesizer

Gary Taylor

Keyboards

Gary "The Gaz" Taylor is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist whose musical expertise has made a significant impact in both live and studio settings. With an innate talent for keyboards, guitar, and vocals, The Gaz brings a unique energy and precision to every project he works on. His ability to blend seamlessly into various musical styles has made him a sought-after collaborator. His versatility and technical proficiency have earned him a reputation as a musician who consistently delivers his best, making him a standout in the New Zealand music scene.

Foot note: 18/08/25 On this day we lost Gary after a courageous battle with cancer. Rest in peace, dear friend. You remain forever a part of The Charlie Tango Project and your music and spirit will continue to inspire all who hear it.

Nick Granville, guest guitarist for The Charlie Tango Project, performing with his electric guitar

Nick Granville

Nick Granville is a professional guitarist, teacher and session musician who has worked with artists as diverse as Dave Weckl, Tony Lindsay (Santana's singer), Dave Mathews, Dewayne Pate, Chris de Burgh, Ronan Keating, Delta Goodrem, Steve Smith, Mike Stern, Joey Defrancesco, Eric Marienthal, Kurt Elling and with the band on New Zealand's "Dancing with the Stars". Nick has released six CD's as a band leader and has played on many recordings, film scores, television and radio programs.  Nick has performed around the world and recorded in the best studios including Kronos Recording, Capitol recording studio A in Los Angeles and United Studios. 

Nick has a masters degree with first class honours in jazz performance from the University of Auckland.