Pre-ATDI

Before The Mars Volta, ANTEMASQUE, Bosnian Rainbows, or even At the Drive-In, there were Foss, Jerk, Phantasmagoria, and Startled Calf.  Very little is known about this era of music for Cedric and Omar, and in fairness to those who were able to witness it there was little reason to document.  It is understandable that no one anticipated a few teenage punks from El Paso would go on to be well-regarded musicians (or a congressman). 

The bits we have show young artists feeling around, exploring, and identifying their sound.  The music is rough, unpolished, but full of the youthful heart that seems to vanish as we get older.  The venues a blend of garages, high school auditoriums, and anywhere that would host a motley crew of DIY punks.

Make no mistake, there are no hidden gems among this era.  The shows truly are a collection of adolescents fumbling and exploring. That said, what may be lacking in song-smithing or finesse is replaced with a ferocious energy.  In hindsight we can see these young burgeoning adults screaming against the world they were about to invade.  It is an energy we can all relate to and appreciate.