Skrape

Originating in Orlando, Florida, the nu metal quintet Skrape—singer Billy Keeton, guitarist Mike Lynchard, guitarist/keyboardist Brian Milner, bassist Pete Sison, and drummer Will Hunt—formed during the late '90s. Several members had previously performed with the Genitorturers and Stuck Mojo, yet the group deliberately pursued an independent path. Rather than refining their sound through constant live performances like most emerging rock acts, Skrape limited stage appearances to occasional shows; nevertheless, rapid word-of-mouth growth cultivated an intense fanbase. RCA soon signed the band, which then entered the studio with veteran metal producer Ulrich Wild (Static X, Powerman 5000, Deftones) to capture its first album, New Killer America, issued in 2001. Two years afterward came the follow-up, Up the Dose.