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Spineshank

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Band Timeline

1996-1997

Formation and Signing with Roadrunner Records

Spineshank formed from members of a previous band called Basic Enigma, who had learned valuable lessons from their earlier musical approach. Key members included Jonny Santos (vocals/bass), Mike Sarkisyan (guitar), and Tommy Decker (drums). After evolving their sound under influences like Fear Factory, they rebranded as Spineshank. Their demo work and performances alongside established bands like Fear Factory and Coal Chamber gained attention. This exposure led to Roadrunner Records signing them to a seven-album deal, marking the beginning of their professional recording career.
1998

Debut Album 'Strictly Diesel' Released

'Strictly Diesel', Spineshank's debut album, was released on September 22, 1998. The album featured collaborations, including vocals by Fear Factory's Burton C. Bell. The band supported the album through a European tour with Fear Factory and Kilgore, establishing themselves in the heavy metal scene. 'Strictly Diesel' introduced their blend of nu metal and industrial metal, setting the stage for their evolving sound and fanbase growth.
2000

Release of 'The Height of Callousness' and Touring Success

Spineshank released their sophomore album, 'The Height of Callousness,' on October 10, 2000, showcasing a stronger industrial metal influence compared to their debut. This album was pivotal in defining their style and received significant attention. In 2001, the band participated in the prestigious Ozzfest festival and toured extensively with prominent acts such as Disturbed, Hed PE, Orgy, and Mudvayne. Singles like 'Synthetic' and 'New Disease' helped to solidify their place within the nu metal and industrial metal scenes.
2003

Third Album 'Self-Destructive Pattern' and Grammy Nomination

The release of 'Self-Destructive Pattern' on September 9, 2003, marked Spineshank's continued evolution in sound and success. The lead single 'Smothered' earned a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance in 2004, highlighting the band's growing critical recognition. Following the album, Spineshank toured Europe with Ill Niño and Chimaira. A recorded show from the Netherlands, titled 'Roadrage,' was filmed but remained unreleased officially. This period was a high point in the band's early career, showcasing their musical growth and industry acclaim.
2004

Jonny Santos Leaves and the Band's Hiatus Begins

In January 2004, vocalist and bassist Jonny Santos left Spineshank due to musical differences, as the band wanted to pursue a heavier sound while Santos preferred a different direction. The split was amicable but marked the beginning of a difficult period for the band. Santos' departure was significant because of his role as frontman and vocalist. This event led to a hiatus, during which the band members focused on other projects and reassessed their future musical paths.
2012

Return with 'Anger Denial Acceptance'

After years of inactivity and lineup challenges, Spineshank returned with their fourth studio album 'Anger Denial Acceptance' in 2012. This album marked the band's comeback and reflected their resilience and continued dedication to their metal roots. The release was an important statement of renewal and reaffirmed their presence in the metal community, appealing to longtime fans and new audiences alike.

Albums

spineshank_1st_album
Strictly Diesel
14 tracks
1998
spineshank_2nd_album
The Height of Callousness
11 tracks
2000
spineshank_3rd_album
Self-Destructive Pattern
13 tracks
2003
spineshank_4th_album
Anger Denial Acceptance
13 tracks
2012
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Story of Spineshank

Spineshank, the Los Angeles-based nu-metal/industrial metal powerhouse, left an undeniable mark on the scene with four studio albums: Strictly Diesel (1998), The Height of Callousness (2000), Self-Destructive Pattern (2003), and Anger Denial Acceptance (2012). Their journey began as Basic Enigma, a band featuring vocalist/bassist Jonny Santos, guitarists Marlo Gonzalez and Tim Mankowski, and drummer Tommy Decker. A 1994 demo, Drunk With Power, served as their baptism by fire. Decker recalls this period as a crucial learning experience, citing influences like Pantera, Slayer, and White Zombie, but acknowledging they needed a sonic shift after hearing Fear Factory`s Demanufacture.

This pivotal moment led to a unique approach: songwriting and recording before live performances. Mike Sarkisyan joined, replacing Mankowski on guitar. Santos, initially a guitarist, temporarily departed to focus on fatherhood, returning to find the band already equipped with two guitarists. This evolution ultimately shaped Spineshank`s distinctive sound and aggressive energy.

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