Jim Korthe, lead singer for rap-rockers 3rd Strike, grew up in a bad neighborhood in Southern California. At a young age he joined a gang to avoid his unhealthy home life, but after growing up with violence and drug peddling, he left the gang to focus on music with his friend, guitarist Todd Deguchi. The two put together a makeshift lineup for 3rd Strike, but between several unsuccessful tours and Korthe's personal problems the band disbanded during the '90s. The two musicians continued to write together, and eventually re-formed the band with drummer PJ McMullan and ba**ist Gabe Hammersmith. They began recording when Pennywise guitarist Fletcher Dragge heard their demo and connected them with his management company. By the end of 2001 they had recorded their debut, Lost Angel, which was released the following May. They supported the album at both the Ozzfest and Warped tours that summer. ~ Bradley Torreano, All Music Guide