Sparta
Jim Ward's post-At the Drive-In vehicle, trading that band's spasms for soaring, melodic post-hardcore. A marquee draw and a rare Fest booking.
Tour dates
Played before (1)
About Sparta
Sparta is a post-hardcore band from El Paso, formed in 2001.
Sparta formed in El Paso in 2001, after the breakup of At the Drive-In, around guitarist and vocalist Jim Ward with fellow former members Paul Hinojos and Tony Hajjar. Where At the Drive-In was jagged and volatile, Sparta favoured a more direct melodic post-hardcore, with layered guitars and choruses built to open up. The debut album Wiretap Scars appeared in 2002 and remains their best-known record. The band went on hiatus in the later 2000s while Ward pursued other projects, and returned to recording and touring in the following decade.
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Questions about Sparta
Where is Sparta from?
Sparta is from El Paso.
Who is in Sparta?
Sparta is Matt Miller (bass, background vocals), Jim Ward (guitar, lead vocals), Gabriel Gonzalez (guitar, keyboards) and Cully Symington (drums). Former members include Erick Sanger, Paul Hinojos, Tony Hajjar and Keeley Davis.
When did Sparta form?
Sparta formed in El Paso in 2001.
What was Sparta's first album?
Sparta's first album was Wiretap Scars (2002). The latest is Cut a Silhouette (2026).
Is Sparta on tour?
Yes. Sparta has 9 shows listed, from Mesa, AZ on Nov 14, 2026 to Newstead, Australia on Apr 4, 2027.
What kind of music does Sparta play?
Sparta plays post-hardcore and alternative rock.
What festivals has Sparta played before?
Sparta has played The Fest 2026.