When At the Drive-In announced their somewhat permanent hiatus in March 2001, co-founder Jim Ward (vocals/guitar) immediately started working with bandmates Paul Hinojos (guitar) and Tony Hajjar (drums) under the Sparta moniker. El Paso native and Belknap bassist Matt Miller joined the band several months later. Within a year, the punk-inspired four-piece had a deal with Dreamworks. Sparta released the Austere EP in March 2002. Five months later, Sparta issued their debut full-length, Wiretap Scars. The band returned two years later with the ambitious Porcelain. North American tours followed into 2005; in May, the band announced the departure of founding member Paul Hinojos. Ex-Engine Down/Denali guitarist Keeley Davis was added to the group before the year's end. A deal with Hollywood followed in early 2006. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide