Fighting Jacks
| Company type | Independent band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2000 |
| Headquarters | San Jose , United States |
| Products | Music albums, EPs |
| Website | fightingjacks |
Fighting Jacks is a melodic rock group originating from San Jose, California, established in the autumn of 2000 following the dissolution of their former bands. The founding members—Casey Linstrum (vocals, guitar), Cory Linstrum (bass, vocals), Michael Hoppe (drums), and Mike Wright (guitar, vocals)—crafted the band’s distinctive style: an energetic fusion of indie rock intensity paired with memorable, approachable melodies. In 2001, they released two EPs: The Inside Trade Agreement and a collaborative Split EP with Sloe and Keeping Ellis. After signing with Tooth & Nail Records, their first full-length album, The Dying Art of Life, was launched in 2003. Following a self-titled EP in 2005 and initial sessions for a sophomore album, the band entered a hiatus lasting from 2007 until 2014. Upon reuniting in late 2014, Fighting Jacks finalized their album Decade, which was independently released digitally in July 2017. Presently, the members work together remotely from locations including San Jose, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Marseille.
Formation
Fighting Jacks came together in the fall of 2000 after the breakup of Freeto Boat/Call of Elijah and 2 Car Garage. The band was initially formed by brothers Casey and Cory Linstrum along with Michael Hoppe. The trio performed locally until they brought on former bandmate Mike Wright as lead guitarist, completing their four-member lineup. Their sound incorporated elements from punk rock, post-hardcore, and alternative genres, resulting in a moody yet melodic and uplifting style that set them apart within the indie rock community.
The Inside Trade Agreement (2001)
Between late 2000 and early 2001, Fighting Jacks composed and recorded their debut EP The Inside Trade Agreement at J31 Studios under producer Gordon Gurley’s guidance. This five-track EP was released in summer 2001 and gained local momentum, particularly with the track "Your Lurking Shadow," which received rotation on San Jose’s Live 105 radio station. This exposure enabled the band to secure opening slots for national acts at prominent Bay Area events such as Live 105’s annual BFD concert and helped broaden their reach along the West Coast while they continued to write new songs.
Split EP (2002)
At the close of 2001, Fighting Jacks jointly self-released the Split EP alongside fellow San Jose groups Sloe and Keeping Ellis. Each band contributed two fresh tracks recorded at J31 Studios with producer Gordon Gurley in San Jose, CA. These three bands frequently toured together between 2000 and 2005.
The Dying Art of Life (2003)
Throughout 2002, Fighting Jacks maintained extensive touring across the West Coast and secured a contract with Seattle-based indie label Tooth & Nail Records. Recording sessions for their debut full-length album The Dying Art of Life took place during winter 2002/2003 at RadioStar Studios in Weed, CA with producer Sylvia Massy. Following these sessions, original drummer Michael Hoppe departed and was succeeded by Jon Sontag, formerly of Fan Five. The band embarked on a national tour throughout 2003 to promote the upcoming album release.
2003–2007
Released globally in October 2003, The Dying Art of Life sparked an intensive touring schedule. In early 2004, drummer Jon Sontag exited the group; David Provenzano—known for his work with south bay bands For the Design and The Northeast—initially stepped in as a temporary replacement before becoming the permanent drummer. Between 2001 and 2007, Fighting Jacks toured extensively across the country and performed at numerous festivals including Cornerstone Festival (in both 2003 and 2004), TOMfest (from 2001 through 2006), Warped Tour (in 2004), Live 105’s BFD (in 2002), and Joshua Fest (in 2006).
S/T EP (2005)
During the summer of 2005, Fighting Jacks independently released their third EP, titled S/T EP. This limited edition pressing features five tracks and was recorded alongside DJ KTA at Sound MGT Studios in Campbell, California. The mixing and mastering process was handled by Gordon Gurley at J31 Studios. Currently, the EP can be accessed through their official Bandcamp platform.
Hiatus and Side Projects
Towards the close of 2006, Fighting Jacks halted live shows to focus on composing demos for their sophomore full-length release. David Provenzano departed to join the Southern California ensemble Sherwood (under Myspace Records) and subsequently initiated projects such as Fialta and Margot Polo. Casey Linstrum pursued a solo career, launching the album Northbound and touring extensively during 2008 and 2009. Mike Wright explored solo electronic music with his project Nugent, established the San Jose-based heavy rock group Mercy High, and co-founded the metal-inspired venture Ironside alongside Cory Linstrum and David Mast, though this project has yet to release any recordings.
2014–Present
Following an extended break, Fighting Jacks reunited in late 2014, incorporating new members Gordon Gurley on drums and production duties, as well as Nick Tresko contributing keyboards and guitars. The band finalized their second full-length album, Decade, which was self-released on July 21, 2017. They remain active with live performances primarily within the San Francisco Bay Area and have reissued all previously out-of-print EPs via their Bandcamp site.
Decade (2017)
Decade stands as Fighting Jacks' second full album and first since 2005. Recording sessions were conducted by Jerry Ososkie, while mixing and mastering took place under Gordon Gurley at J31 Studios in San Jose, California. Drummer David Provenzano returned for this project. The album comprises eleven tracks and was preceded by a two-track single featuring "In Your Glory" and "Fade; Decay," released on April 23, 2017 through their Bandcamp page. Decade is available on all major digital music platforms.
Current
- Casey Linstrum – lead vocals, rhythm guitar
- Cory Linstrum – bass guitar, backing vocals
- Mike Wright – lead guitar
- David Provenzano – drums (2004–2012, 2022)
- Nick Tresko – keyboards, synthesizers, rhythm guitar
Former
- Michael Hoppe – drums (2000–2003)
- Jon Sontag – drums (2003–2004)
- Gordon Gurley – drums (2015–2017)
Discography
- The Inside Trade Agreement – 2001
- Split EP – 2002
- The Dying Art of Life – 2003
- S/T EP – 2005
- Decade – 2017