Sparta
Dreamworks Records
Three months after their band At The Drive-In went on hiatus in March 2000, Jim Ward, Paul Hinojos, and Tony Hajjar began writing and rehearsing as Sparta. Although ATDI was enjoying remarkable success, having just released one of the year's best-received rock albums in Relationship Of Command, it was apparent that ATDI wouldn't be playing any time soon, so the trio recruited bass player Matt Miller and formed Sparta. Before long, the new project had become a full-time band with a complete set of songs, so Sparta began touring in late 2001, enjoying immediate support.
Sparta recorded its debut four-song EP, Austere, in their native El Paso, Texas and released it in March of 2002. The members cite their diverse ethnic backgrounds and their close proximity to the U.S./Mexican border where they see "first and third world living conditions divided by a chain link fence" as significant influences on their music. Austere does recall At The Drive In in many regards, even the vocals, though old ATBI singer Cedric Bixler has nothing to do with the project. But there are just as many elements which are unique to Sparta. Their songs are more straightforward and driving, while their '80s-influenced sequenced electronics work well to create interesting dynamics. Overall, Austere is a nice first effort from Sparta.
Now they have followed with an album produced by hitmaker Jerry Finn (Blink 182, Green Day) and released by Dreamworks Records, entitled Wiretap Scars. Sparta's first album shows they've become a more cohesive band than they demonstrated on the EP. Most of the songs on the album are more introspective and utilize melody more than the aggression of ATDI. You might say that they've found their own sound. Although the album is a bit more subdued than their previous efforts, there is still plenty of rock.
Justin Sinkovich
last updated:
08/18/02
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