Flotsam and Jetsam (band)
Encyclopedia
Flotsam and Jetsam is a thrash metal
band that formed in Phoenix
, Arizona
in 1982.
joined. Jason had come to Phoenix with his band "Gangster" from Michigan on their way to California, but Gangster broke up while in Phoenix. Kelly and Jason (also doing the vocals) played their first professional gig as "Dredlox" together with guitarists Mark Vasquez and Kevin Horton.
Kelly saw 'A.K.' (Eric A. Knutson) singing "The Goodbye Girl" at his high school talent show. In 1983 they were in the same summer school class and Kelly asked Eric A.K. if he wanted to audition. They put him on 2 week probation and then Eric A.K. joined the band. Due to the provisional nature of his membership, the band referred to Eric A.K. as "the 2 weeker." Ed Carlson, from local rival band called "Exodus" (not to be confused with the California Bay Area thrash metal band of the same name
), also joined in 1983 after Kevin left the band. The name of the band changed into "The Dogz", but it didn't last long. Eventually the band renamed itself 'Flotsam and Jetsam' after writing a song inspired from a chapter of J. R. R. Tolkien
's The Two Towers
.
The band made its live debuts in local clubs and in California and had the opportunity to play with bands such as Megadeth
, Armored Saint
, Alcatrazz
, Malice
, Exciter
, Mercyful Fate
, Riot
, Autograph
. In 1985 guitarist Mark left and 17 year old Michael Gilbert joined the band. Flotsam and Jetsam released two demo tapes Iron Tears and Metal Shock in 1985.
They created their own video Hammerhead from the Metal Shock demo: "We taped it in Jason and Ed's apartment living room. We also made a live video from the infamous Bootlegger in Phoenix." Those combined with the demos made a good impession on Record labels and after they contributed to the Speed Metal Hell II and Metal Massacre VII compilations, they got a deal with Metal Blade Records
.
. The release of Doomsday for the Deceiver
was on July 19, 1986. It was the first in Kerrang!
's history to achieve the 6K rating.
Bassist Jason Newsted
, who was also the band's main lyric writer, departed soon after to join Metallica
, replacing their bassist Cliff Burton
, who died in an accident. On Halloween night 1986, Jason played his last gig with Flotsam and Jetsam. The band had asked another local bassist Phil Rind of Sacred Reich
to fill in Jason's place for a short time. They then hired Michael Spencer from the Sacramento band Sentinel Beast. Flotsam and Jetsam signed with Metallica's label Elektra Records
before touring Europe with Megadeth
in 1987.
in 1987, and in May of the next year the band's second album No Place for Disgrace
was released. It includes a cover of Elton John
's hit "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting
" and therefore a video was shot. The band opened for King Diamond
in America and supported Megadeth
, Testament
and Sanctuary
in Europe on the So Far, So Good... So What!
tour.
Flotsam and Jetsam signed with major label MCA Records
in 1989 and began work on their third album When the Storm Comes Down
, which was released in May 1990. The band expected to gain recognition with this album, but it suffered from a very poor production and didn't meet fans expectations.
, released 1992, saw the band change their style – no typical speed
or thrash metal
songs are included. Flotsam and Jetsam made some efforts concerning the promotion: four singles were released and videos were shot for the songs Swatting at Flies and Wading Through the Darkness.
, Ministry
, Revolting Cocks and Lard
, who died in 1993. A long break followed the release of the album.
During Flotsam and Jetsam's tour with Megadeth
and KORN
they had been dropped from MCA and returned to their former label Metal Blade Records. On their 1997 album High
the song titles were designed with the font types/logos of famous bands like Iron Maiden
, Metallica
, Kiss
, Van Halen
, AC/DC
, Judas Priest
, Misfits etc. The sound were more experimental than before and the album also featured the Lard
cover song Fork Boy, but it didn't impress the fans as much as their earlier work.
Michael Gilbert and Kelly Smith left the band after the release and were replaced by guitarist Mark Simpson and drummer Craig Nielsen. With the new line-up Flotsam and Jetsam toured in Europe together with Anvil
and Exciter
.
was released in 1999 and Mark Simpson took a short break. He joined the band again in 2000 to record a new album, My God
released in May 2001, and most of the songs were written by him. At that time Eric A.K. had founded a country band, the A.K. Corral. He then left the band, demotivated after spending fifteen years waiting for success. Though Flotsam and Jetsam did not disband, there was a long break at that time. They found a new singer in James Rivera
who took over vocal duties live. Later the band felt that no one other than Eric A.K. could be their singer and Rivera left the band soon after.
and Death Angel
for a series of concerts in Japan that sold out venues with capacities of over 1,000 people.
Spring 2005 Flotsam and Jetsam returned to the studio to work on their new album. The lyrics were mostly inspired by Eric's nightmares. This resulted into a concept album entitled Dreams of Death
- like track 2 of No Place for Disgrace. The album was released July 2005.
Doomsday for the Deceiver
was re-released in November 2006 by Metal Blade Records to celebrate the album's twentieth anniversary. This set (2 CD and DVD) includes the original recording of Doomsday and a re-mixed and re-mastered version and also the two Flotsam and Jetsam demos. The bonus DVD includes rare live material, an interview filmed at Kelly's High School and a photo slide-show.
In Spring 2008 Metal Mind Productions
remastered and re-released the albums When the Storm Comes Down, Cuatro (including 5 bonus tracks), Drift (including 3 bonus tracks) and Dreams of Death. Unfortunately for the fans "No Place for disgrace" could not be remastered due to existing legal issues between the band and their former label Elektra Records and former manager Eric Braverman.)
In March 2008 Flotsam and Jetsam toured in Europe and played at the Metalmania
Festival in Poland. This show was filmed and released as DVD Once in a Deathtime in July.
Midyear 2008 the band were signed to Driven Music Group
, founded by former KORN
guitarist Brian "Head" Welch.
Flotsam and Jetsam's new record The Cold was released on september 14, 2010. It was the last album with Mark Simpson on guitar. He left the band in friendship and was replaced by returning guitarist Ed Carlson, who had quit the band in March 2010, to be replaced by Michael Gilbert.
In September 2011 Kelly David-Smith made his return replacing the departed Craig Nielsen.
Guitars:
Bass
Drums
Thrash metal
Thrash metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that is characterized usually by its fast tempo and aggression. Songs of the genre typically use fast percussive and low-register guitar riffs, overlaid with shredding-style lead work...
band that formed in Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is the capital, and largest city, of the U.S. state of Arizona, as well as the sixth most populated city in the United States. Phoenix is home to 1,445,632 people according to the official 2010 U.S. Census Bureau data...
, Arizona
Arizona
Arizona ; is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States. It is also part of the western United States and the mountain west. The capital and largest city is Phoenix...
in 1982.
1981-1986: The beginning
The band's original name was "Paradox" founded by Drummer Kelly David-Smith and two other guitarists, until 1982 when bassist Jason NewstedJason Newsted
Jason Curtis Newsted is an American bassist known for his work with Metallica, Voivod and Flotsam and Jetsam. Joining Metallica in 1986 after Cliff Burton's death, Newsted remained a member until 2001, making him the band's longest-serving bassist...
joined. Jason had come to Phoenix with his band "Gangster" from Michigan on their way to California, but Gangster broke up while in Phoenix. Kelly and Jason (also doing the vocals) played their first professional gig as "Dredlox" together with guitarists Mark Vasquez and Kevin Horton.
Kelly saw 'A.K.' (Eric A. Knutson) singing "The Goodbye Girl" at his high school talent show. In 1983 they were in the same summer school class and Kelly asked Eric A.K. if he wanted to audition. They put him on 2 week probation and then Eric A.K. joined the band. Due to the provisional nature of his membership, the band referred to Eric A.K. as "the 2 weeker." Ed Carlson, from local rival band called "Exodus" (not to be confused with the California Bay Area thrash metal band of the same name
Exodus (band)
Exodus is an American thrash metal band formed in 1980 in Richmond, California. Spanning a career of over 30 years, Exodus has gone through numerous lineup changes, two extended hiatuses, and the deaths of two former band members. Guitarist Gary Holt remains the only constant member of the band,...
), also joined in 1983 after Kevin left the band. The name of the band changed into "The Dogz", but it didn't last long. Eventually the band renamed itself 'Flotsam and Jetsam' after writing a song inspired from a chapter of J. R. R. Tolkien
J. R. R. Tolkien
John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, CBE was an English writer, poet, philologist, and university professor, best known as the author of the classic high fantasy works The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion.Tolkien was Rawlinson and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon at Pembroke College,...
's The Two Towers
The Two Towers
The Two Towers is the second volume of J. R. R. Tolkien's high fantasy novel The Lord of the Rings. It is preceded by The Fellowship of the Ring and followed by The Return of the King.-Title:...
.
The band made its live debuts in local clubs and in California and had the opportunity to play with bands such as Megadeth
Megadeth
Megadeth is an American heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California which was formed in 1983 by guitarist/vocalist Dave Mustaine, bassist Dave Ellefson and guitarist Greg Handevidt, following Mustaine's expulsion from Metallica. The band has since released 13 studio albums, three live albums, two...
, Armored Saint
Armored Saint
-Early career:Armored Saint was formed in 1982 by brothers Phil Sandoval and Gonzo Sandoval , and guitarist David Prichard, while attending South Pasadena High School. Next to join were singer John Bush also a South Pasadena High School Alumni and bassist Joey Vera...
, Alcatrazz
Alcatrazz
Alcatrazz is an American heavy metal band formed in 1983 by Graham Bonnet, Jimmy Waldo and Gary Shea.-History:The band's initial line-up consisted of former Rainbow frontman Graham Bonnet, young Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen who had recently left American band Steeler, Gary Shea and Jimmy...
, Malice
Malice
Malice may refer to:* Malice , a legal term describing the intent to harm* Jerry Tuite , American professional wrestler also known by the ring name Malice-Entertainment:...
, Exciter
Exciter
Exciter may refer to:* The low-power RF stages of a radio transmitter* A component of an electrical generator* Exciter bulb, a light source for reading the optical soundtrack on motion picture film; see sound-on-film* Exciter , audio effect unit...
, Mercyful Fate
Mercyful Fate
Mercyful Fate was a Danish heavy metal band from Copenhagen. Initially active from 1981 to 1985, they reunited in 1992. The band went on hiatus again in 2000, when frontman King Diamond decided to continue his solo career...
, Riot
Riot
A riot is a form of civil disorder characterized often by what is thought of as disorganized groups lashing out in a sudden and intense rash of violence against authority, property or people. While individuals may attempt to lead or control a riot, riots are thought to be typically chaotic and...
, Autograph
Autograph (American band)
Autograph was an American hard rock band from Los Angeles, California.-Formation:Autograph began in late 1983 originally as a solo project for singer, songwriter & guitarist Steve Plunkett, who had recently left the band Silver Condor, due to his frustration with their lack of interest in recording...
. In 1985 guitarist Mark left and 17 year old Michael Gilbert joined the band. Flotsam and Jetsam released two demo tapes Iron Tears and Metal Shock in 1985.
They created their own video Hammerhead from the Metal Shock demo: "We taped it in Jason and Ed's apartment living room. We also made a live video from the infamous Bootlegger in Phoenix." Those combined with the demos made a good impession on Record labels and after they contributed to the Speed Metal Hell II and Metal Massacre VII compilations, they got a deal with Metal Blade Records
Metal Blade Records
Metal Blade Records is a record label which was founded by Brian Slagel in 1982. The U.S. corporate office for Metal Blade is located in Agoura Hills, California. It also has offices in Arizona, Germany, Japan, Canada, and the UK. The label is distributed in the U.S. by Sony BMG Music...
.
1986-1987: Doomsday for the Deceiver
Then Flotsam and Jetsam recorded their first album in Los Angeles with producer Brian SlagelBrian Slagel
Brian Slagel is the owner and founder of Metal Blade Records. Slagel is known for giving Metallica their first break in 1982, with an appearance on Metal Massacre, a compilation album on Metal Blade, and has since released seminal albums by Slayer, Mercyful Fate, Cannibal Corpse, Fates Warning,...
. The release of Doomsday for the Deceiver
Doomsday for the Deceiver
Doomsday for the Deceiver is the debut album by Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released in 1986. It is the only album by Flotsam and Jetsam which features Jason Newsted before his departure for Metallica. Most lyrics were written by Newsted. The album was re-released in 2006, including a re-mastered...
was on July 19, 1986. It was the first in Kerrang!
Kerrang!
Kerrang! is a UK-based magazine devoted to rock music published by Bauer Media Group. It was first published on June 6, 1981 as a one-off supplement in the Sounds newspaper...
's history to achieve the 6K rating.
Bassist Jason Newsted
Jason Newsted
Jason Curtis Newsted is an American bassist known for his work with Metallica, Voivod and Flotsam and Jetsam. Joining Metallica in 1986 after Cliff Burton's death, Newsted remained a member until 2001, making him the band's longest-serving bassist...
, who was also the band's main lyric writer, departed soon after to join Metallica
Metallica
Metallica is an American heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California. Formed in 1981 when James Hetfield responded to an advertisement that drummer Lars Ulrich had posted in a local newspaper. The current line-up features long-time lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo ...
, replacing their bassist Cliff Burton
Cliff Burton
Clifford Lee "Cliff" Burton was an American musician, best known as the bass guitarist for the American heavy metal band Metallica....
, who died in an accident. On Halloween night 1986, Jason played his last gig with Flotsam and Jetsam. The band had asked another local bassist Phil Rind of Sacred Reich
Sacred Reich
Sacred Reich is a Phoenix, Arizona-based thrash metal band that formed in 1985. Singer/songwriter Phil Rind's interest was in socially conscious and political speed metal. After several records on Metal Blade Records, they signed to Hollywood Records for a short stint, but later returned to Metal...
to fill in Jason's place for a short time. They then hired Michael Spencer from the Sacramento band Sentinel Beast. Flotsam and Jetsam signed with Metallica's label Elektra Records
Elektra Records
Elektra Records is an American record label owned by Warner Music Group. In 2004, it was consolidated into WMG's Atlantic Records Group. After five years of dormancy, the label was revived by Atlantic in 2009....
before touring Europe with Megadeth
Megadeth
Megadeth is an American heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California which was formed in 1983 by guitarist/vocalist Dave Mustaine, bassist Dave Ellefson and guitarist Greg Handevidt, following Mustaine's expulsion from Metallica. The band has since released 13 studio albums, three live albums, two...
in 1987.
1987-1992: No Place for Disgrace and When the Storm Comes Down
Michael Spencer lost his position to Troy GregoryTroy Gregory
Troy Gregory is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, filmmaker and solo artist. He is best-known for his work with The Dirtbombs, Prong, and The Witches.-Chronology:...
in 1987, and in May of the next year the band's second album No Place for Disgrace
No Place for Disgrace
No Place for Disgrace is the second studio album by Flotsam and Jetsam. It was recorded between December 1987 and February 1988, and was released later in 1988. This is the band's major label debut on Elektra Records. It is the first Flotsam And Jetsam album to feature bassist Troy Gregory, who...
was released. It includes a cover of Elton John
Elton John
Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE, Hon DMus is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor...
's hit "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting
Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting
"Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting" is a rock song performed by musician Elton John and covered by W.A.S.P., Flotsam and Jetsam, Nickelback , Queen and The Who...
" and therefore a video was shot. The band opened for King Diamond
King Diamond
Kim Bendix Petersen , better known by his stage name King Diamond, is a Grammy Award nominated Danish heavy metal musician. As a vocalist, he is known for his extensive vocal range, in particular his usage of falsetto. He is the lead vocalist for both Mercyful Fate and the eponymous King Diamond...
in America and supported Megadeth
Megadeth
Megadeth is an American heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California which was formed in 1983 by guitarist/vocalist Dave Mustaine, bassist Dave Ellefson and guitarist Greg Handevidt, following Mustaine's expulsion from Metallica. The band has since released 13 studio albums, three live albums, two...
, Testament
Testament (band)
Testament is an American metal band from Berkeley, California, formed in 1983. They are often credited as one of the most popular bands of the 1980s thrash metal scene...
and Sanctuary
Sanctuary (band)
Sanctuary is an American heavy metal band founded in Seattle in 1985. The band consisted of Warrel Dane , Lenny Rutledge , Sean Blosl, Jim Sheppard , Dave Budbill , and in the end Jeff Loomis.-History:...
in Europe on the So Far, So Good... So What!
So Far, So Good... So What!
- 2004 bonus tracks :† The intro makes use of a sample from The Ink Spots' 1941 song "I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire"- Personnel :- Charts :-RIAA Certifications:- External links :*...
tour.
Flotsam and Jetsam signed with major label MCA Records
MCA Records
MCA Records was an American-based record company owned by MCA Inc., which later gave way to the larger MCA Music Entertainment Group , of which MCA Records was still part. MCA Records was absorbed by Geffen Records in 2003...
in 1989 and began work on their third album When the Storm Comes Down
When the Storm Comes down
When the Storm Comes Down is the third studio album by Flotsam and Jetsam, released in 1990. Re-released on June 10, 2008 by Metal Mind Productions. This release is remastered with a bonus track and limited to 2000 copies. The re-release also contains new packaging and liner notes from band members...
, which was released in May 1990. The band expected to gain recognition with this album, but it suffered from a very poor production and didn't meet fans expectations.
1992-1995: Cuatro
Troy Gregory left the band shortly after for Prong and the band had to find a new bassist once again, eventually hiring Jason Ward to fill the role. CuatroCuatro (album)
#...
, released 1992, saw the band change their style – no typical speed
Speed metal
Speed metal is a sub-genre of heavy metal music that originated in the late 1970s from NWOBHM and hardcore punk roots. It is described by Allmusic as "extremely fast, abrasive, and technically demanding" music....
or thrash metal
Thrash metal
Thrash metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that is characterized usually by its fast tempo and aggression. Songs of the genre typically use fast percussive and low-register guitar riffs, overlaid with shredding-style lead work...
songs are included. Flotsam and Jetsam made some efforts concerning the promotion: four singles were released and videos were shot for the songs Swatting at Flies and Wading Through the Darkness.
1995-1999: Drift and High
Their fifth album Drift was released in April 1995, with three singles released off of the record. Jason dedicated it to his older brother Jeff Ward, former drummer of such bands as NINNin
Nin may refer to:* Nine Inch Nails, an American industrial rock band* NIN , a Serbian political magazine* NIN , the Sumerian sign for lady* NIN , a human gene* Nion or Nin, a letter in the Ogham alphabet...
, Ministry
Ministry (band)
Ministry is an American industrial metal band founded by lead singer Al Jourgensen in 1981. Originally a synthpop outfit, Ministry changed its style to industrial metal in the late 1980s. Ministry found mainstream success in the early 1990s with its most successful album Psalm 69: The Way to...
, Revolting Cocks and Lard
Lard (band)
Lard is a hardcore punk/industrial band founded in 1988 as a side project by Jello Biafra , Al Jourgensen , Paul Barker , and Jeff Ward . Biafra is perhaps best known as the former frontman of the punk rock band Dead Kennedys...
, who died in 1993. A long break followed the release of the album.
During Flotsam and Jetsam's tour with Megadeth
Megadeth
Megadeth is an American heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California which was formed in 1983 by guitarist/vocalist Dave Mustaine, bassist Dave Ellefson and guitarist Greg Handevidt, following Mustaine's expulsion from Metallica. The band has since released 13 studio albums, three live albums, two...
and KORN
Korn
Korn is an American nu metal band from Bakersfield, California, formed in 1993. The current band line up includes four members: Jonathan Davis, James "Munky" Shaffer, Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu, and Ray Luzier. The band was formed as an expansion of L.A.P.D.The band released their first demo album,...
they had been dropped from MCA and returned to their former label Metal Blade Records. On their 1997 album High
High (Flotsam and Jetsam album)
High is the sixth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on June 3, 1997. It is their last album with Michael Gilbert and Kelly David Smith.-Track listing:#Final Step #Hallucinational #It's On Me #High Noon...
the song titles were designed with the font types/logos of famous bands like Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden are an English heavy metal band from Leyton in east London, formed in 1975 by bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris. Since their inception, the band's discography has grown to include a total of thirty-six albums: fifteen studio albums; eleven live albums; four EPs; and six...
, Metallica
Metallica
Metallica is an American heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California. Formed in 1981 when James Hetfield responded to an advertisement that drummer Lars Ulrich had posted in a local newspaper. The current line-up features long-time lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo ...
, Kiss
KISS (band)
Kiss is an American rock band formed in New York City in January 1973. Well-known for its members' face paint and flamboyant stage outfits, the group rose to prominence in the mid to late 1970s on the basis of their elaborate live performances, which featured fire breathing, blood spitting,...
, Van Halen
Van Halen
Van Halen is an American hard rock band formed in Pasadena, California, in 1972. The band has enjoyed success since the release of its debut album, Van Halen, . As of 2007 Van Halen has sold 80 million albums worldwide and has had the most #1 hits on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart...
, AC/DC
AC/DC
AC/DC are an Australian rock band, formed in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. Commonly classified as hard rock, they are considered pioneers of heavy metal, though they themselves have always classified their music as simply "rock and roll"...
, Judas Priest
Judas Priest
Judas Priest are an English heavy metal band from Birmingham, England, formed in 1969. The current line-up consists of lead vocalist Rob Halford, guitarists Glenn Tipton and Richie Faulkner, bassist Ian Hill, and drummer Scott Travis. The band has gone through several drummers over the years,...
, Misfits etc. The sound were more experimental than before and the album also featured the Lard
Lard (band)
Lard is a hardcore punk/industrial band founded in 1988 as a side project by Jello Biafra , Al Jourgensen , Paul Barker , and Jeff Ward . Biafra is perhaps best known as the former frontman of the punk rock band Dead Kennedys...
cover song Fork Boy, but it didn't impress the fans as much as their earlier work.
Michael Gilbert and Kelly Smith left the band after the release and were replaced by guitarist Mark Simpson and drummer Craig Nielsen. With the new line-up Flotsam and Jetsam toured in Europe together with Anvil
Anvil (band)
Anvil is a Canadian heavy metal band comprising Steve "Lips" Kudlow , Robb Reiner , and Glenn Five...
and Exciter
Exciter (band)
Exciter is a Canadian speed metal band from Ottawa, Ontario. They are widely considered to be one of the first speed metal bands and a seminal influence of the thrash metal genre. Exciter have sold nearly 2.3 million units in the USA and a total sells at 10 million units worldwide...
.
1999-2002: Unnatural Selection and My God
Unnatural SelectionUnnatural Selection (album)
Unnatural Selection is the seventh album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on January 26, 1999.-Track listing:#Dream Scrape#Chemical Noose#Promise Keepers#Liquid Noose#Falling#Fuckers#Brain Dead#Way To Go#Win, Lose Or Dead...
was released in 1999 and Mark Simpson took a short break. He joined the band again in 2000 to record a new album, My God
My God (album)
My God is the eighth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on May 22, 2001. It was recorded between October 2000 and January 2001 .- Track listing :# "Dig Me Up To Bury Me"# "Keep Breathing"# "Nothing To Say"# "Weather To Do"...
released in May 2001, and most of the songs were written by him. At that time Eric A.K. had founded a country band, the A.K. Corral. He then left the band, demotivated after spending fifteen years waiting for success. Though Flotsam and Jetsam did not disband, there was a long break at that time. They found a new singer in James Rivera
James Rivera
James Rivera is a heavy metal singer; he was the singer for Seven Witches between 2002 and 2005. As of May 2007, he has been a metal frontman for twenty-four years and has recorded fourteen albums. He sang with Power/Speed Metal act Helstar, a band established in the early 1980s in Houston, Texas...
who took over vocal duties live. Later the band felt that no one other than Eric A.K. could be their singer and Rivera left the band soon after.
2002-2006: Live In Phoenix and Dreams of Death
During 2002 and 2003 the band were active only sporadically, but Eric A.K. rejoined for live dates in the Phoenix and Los Angeles areas in 2003. A live recording of these shows was released in 2004 as a live concert DVD under the title Live in Phoenix. Signed to the Crash Music label in May 2004 and with Eric A.K. joining the band again officially, they hit the road with OverkillOverkill (band)
Overkill is an American thrash metal band, formed in 1980 in New Jersey. They have gone through many line-up changes, with singer Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth and bassist D.D. Verni remaining from the original lineup. Along with Anthrax , the band is one of the most successful East Coast thrash metal...
and Death Angel
Death Angel
Death Angel is a Filipino-American thrash metal band from Concord, California, initially active from 1982 to 1991 and again since 2001. Death Angel has released six studio albums, two demo tapes, one box set and two live albums....
for a series of concerts in Japan that sold out venues with capacities of over 1,000 people.
Spring 2005 Flotsam and Jetsam returned to the studio to work on their new album. The lyrics were mostly inspired by Eric's nightmares. This resulted into a concept album entitled Dreams of Death
Dreams of Death
Dreams of Death is the ninth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on 26 July 2005.-Track listing:All tracks by Flotsam and Jetsam#"Requiescal" - 0:36#"Straight To Hell" - 4:30#"Parapsychic, Paranoid" - 2:52#"Bleed" - 5:19...
- like track 2 of No Place for Disgrace. The album was released July 2005.
2006-present: Live In Japan, Once in a Deathtime and The Cold
The live DVD Live in Japan was released in February 2006 and shows their concert in front of thousands of screaming Japanese fans at the Citta Club in Tokyo 2004.Doomsday for the Deceiver
Doomsday for the Deceiver
Doomsday for the Deceiver is the debut album by Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released in 1986. It is the only album by Flotsam and Jetsam which features Jason Newsted before his departure for Metallica. Most lyrics were written by Newsted. The album was re-released in 2006, including a re-mastered...
was re-released in November 2006 by Metal Blade Records to celebrate the album's twentieth anniversary. This set (2 CD and DVD) includes the original recording of Doomsday and a re-mixed and re-mastered version and also the two Flotsam and Jetsam demos. The bonus DVD includes rare live material, an interview filmed at Kelly's High School and a photo slide-show.
In Spring 2008 Metal Mind Productions
Metal Mind Productions
Metal Mind Productions is a Polish record label founded in 1987. Currently it is one of the lead independent labels in Poland with over 1000 of licences and over 10 million of data mediums sold. The label focuses mainly on rock and heavy metal genres...
remastered and re-released the albums When the Storm Comes Down, Cuatro (including 5 bonus tracks), Drift (including 3 bonus tracks) and Dreams of Death. Unfortunately for the fans "No Place for disgrace" could not be remastered due to existing legal issues between the band and their former label Elektra Records and former manager Eric Braverman.)
In March 2008 Flotsam and Jetsam toured in Europe and played at the Metalmania
Metalmania
Metalmania is one of the biggest heavy metal music festivals in Central Europe. It has been held annually since 1986. The 2008 edition was held on the 8th of March at Spodek in Katowice, Poland.-Large stage:*Sepultura*Paradise Lost*Testament...
Festival in Poland. This show was filmed and released as DVD Once in a Deathtime in July.
Midyear 2008 the band were signed to Driven Music Group
Driven Music Group
Driven Music Group is a record label founded by former Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch, Mark Nawara and Greg Shanaberger. The company has a distribution deal with Warner Music Group.-Current artists:CrossbreedFlotsam & JetsamGodheadEven The Dogs...
, founded by former KORN
Korn
Korn is an American nu metal band from Bakersfield, California, formed in 1993. The current band line up includes four members: Jonathan Davis, James "Munky" Shaffer, Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu, and Ray Luzier. The band was formed as an expansion of L.A.P.D.The band released their first demo album,...
guitarist Brian "Head" Welch.
Flotsam and Jetsam's new record The Cold was released on september 14, 2010. It was the last album with Mark Simpson on guitar. He left the band in friendship and was replaced by returning guitarist Ed Carlson, who had quit the band in March 2010, to be replaced by Michael Gilbert.
In September 2011 Kelly David-Smith made his return replacing the departed Craig Nielsen.
Current members
- Eric A. ('A.K.') Knutson - vocals (1983–present)
- Michael Gilbert - guitar (1985–1997, 2010–present)
- Ed Carlson - guitar (1983–2010, 2010-present)
- Jason Ward - Bass (1991–present)
- Kelly David-Smith - drums (1982–1997, 2011-present)
Former members
Vocals- James Rivera (tour only) (2001)
Guitars:
- Kevin Horton (1982–1983)
- Mark Vazquez (1982–1984)
- Mark Simpson (1997–2010)
Bass
- Jason NewstedJason NewstedJason Curtis Newsted is an American bassist known for his work with Metallica, Voivod and Flotsam and Jetsam. Joining Metallica in 1986 after Cliff Burton's death, Newsted remained a member until 2001, making him the band's longest-serving bassist...
(1982–1986) - Phil Rind (1986)
- Michael Spencer (1987)
- Troy Gregory (1987–1991)
Drums
- Craig Nielsen (1997–2011)
Albums
- Doomsday for the DeceiverDoomsday for the DeceiverDoomsday for the Deceiver is the debut album by Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released in 1986. It is the only album by Flotsam and Jetsam which features Jason Newsted before his departure for Metallica. Most lyrics were written by Newsted. The album was re-released in 2006, including a re-mastered...
(19861986 in musicThis is a list of notable events in music that took place in the year 1986.-January-June:*January 23 – The first induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame takes place...
, Metal Blade) - No Place for DisgraceNo Place for DisgraceNo Place for Disgrace is the second studio album by Flotsam and Jetsam. It was recorded between December 1987 and February 1988, and was released later in 1988. This is the band's major label debut on Elektra Records. It is the first Flotsam And Jetsam album to feature bassist Troy Gregory, who...
(19881988 in musicThis is a list of notable events in music that took place in the year 1988.-January-March:* January 1 – André Rieu's Johann Strauss Orchestra plays its first concert....
, Elektra RecordsElektra RecordsElektra Records is an American record label owned by Warner Music Group. In 2004, it was consolidated into WMG's Atlantic Records Group. After five years of dormancy, the label was revived by Atlantic in 2009....
) - When the Storm Comes DownWhen the Storm Comes downWhen the Storm Comes Down is the third studio album by Flotsam and Jetsam, released in 1990. Re-released on June 10, 2008 by Metal Mind Productions. This release is remastered with a bonus track and limited to 2000 copies. The re-release also contains new packaging and liner notes from band members...
(19901990 in musicThis is a list of notable events in music that took place in the year 1990.-Events:*January 21 – MTV's Unplugged premieres on cable television with British band Squeeze...
, MCA RecordsMusic Corporation of AmericaMCA, Inc. was an American talent agency. Initially starting in the music business, they would next become a dominant force in the film business, and later expanded into the television business...
) - CuatroCuatro (album)#...
(19921992 in musicThis is a list of notable events in music that took place in the year 1992.-January–February:*January 11**Nirvana's Nevermind album goes to #1 in the US Billboard 200 chart, establishing the widespread popularity of the Grunge movement of the 1990s....
, MCA Records) - Drift (19951995 in musicThis is a list of notable events in music that took place in the year 1995.- January–February :*January 18 – Jerry Garcia crashes his rented BMW into a guard rail near Mill Valley, California, USA, but is not injured in the accident....
, MCA Records) - HighHigh (Flotsam and Jetsam album)High is the sixth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on June 3, 1997. It is their last album with Michael Gilbert and Kelly David Smith.-Track listing:#Final Step #Hallucinational #It's On Me #High Noon...
(19971997 in musicThis is a list of notable events in music that took place in the year 1997.-January:*January 9 – David Bowie performs his 50th Birthday Bash concert at Madison Square Garden, New York City, USA with guests Frank Black, The Foo Fighters, Sonic Youth, Robert Smith of The Cure, Lou Reed, and Billy...
, Metal Blade) - Unnatural SelectionUnnatural Selection (album)Unnatural Selection is the seventh album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on January 26, 1999.-Track listing:#Dream Scrape#Chemical Noose#Promise Keepers#Liquid Noose#Falling#Fuckers#Brain Dead#Way To Go#Win, Lose Or Dead...
(19991999 in music-Events:*January 7**After eight years of marriage, Rod Stewart and supermodel wife Rachel Hunter announce their separation.**Paul McCartney attends the first of his stepdaughter Heather's first housewares collection in Georgia....
, Metal Blade) - My GodMy God (album)My God is the eighth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on May 22, 2001. It was recorded between October 2000 and January 2001 .- Track listing :# "Dig Me Up To Bury Me"# "Keep Breathing"# "Nothing To Say"# "Weather To Do"...
(20012001 in musicSee also:* 2001 in music Record labels established in 2001-Events:*January 1**Comeback of Guns N' Roses in House of Blues**Hum disbands.*January 17 – Bass player Jason Newsted leaves Metallica after 14 years with the band....
, Metal Blade) - Dreams of DeathDreams of DeathDreams of Death is the ninth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on 26 July 2005.-Track listing:All tracks by Flotsam and Jetsam#"Requiescal" - 0:36#"Straight To Hell" - 4:30#"Parapsychic, Paranoid" - 2:52#"Bleed" - 5:19...
(20052005 in music-Events:*During the year 2005, 12 rock music albums scored number 1 in the USA. This was the first time even ten albums have scored number 1 since 1996.-January:...
, Crash Music) - The ColdThe Cold (album)The Cold is the tenth album by thrash metal band Flotsam and Jetsam. It was released on 14 September 2010. The album artwork was created by Travis Smith.-Track listing:All tracks by Flotsam and Jetsam#"Hypocrite" - 4:06#"Take" - 4:19#"The Cold" - 7:19...
(20102010 in music2010 in music may refer to:*2010 in American music*2010 in Australian music*2010 in British music*2010 in Canadian music*2010 in European music *2010 in Irish music*2010 in Japanese music*2010 in New Zealand music...
)
Singles/EPs
- Flotzilla (1987)
- Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting (1988)
- Suffer The Masses (1990)
- The Master Sleeps (1990)
- Selections from CUATRO (1992)
- Never To Reveal (1992)
- Swatting At Flies (1992)
- Wading Through The Darkness (1992)
- Cradle Me Now (1992)
- Smoked Out (1995)
- Blindside (1995)
- Destructive Signs (1995)