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.
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.
Festivals Sparta is playing
Sparta at a glance
What festivals is Sparta playing in 2026?
Sparta is booked at 1 festival: The Fest 2026.
Is Sparta playing The Fest 2026?
Yes — Sparta is on the The Fest 2026 lineup, October 23–25, 2026 at Gainesville, FL.
Where is Sparta from?
Sparta is from El Paso.
What kind of music does Sparta play?
Sparta is tagged post-hardcore and alternative rock.
Also on these bills
Bear Vs. SharkTexas is the ReasonA Wilhelm ScreamAgainst All AuthorityAlgernon CadwalladerBouncing SoulsThe FlatlinersHey MercedesHome FrontI Am the AvalancheThe ImpossiblesLagwagon
More post-hardcore acts
Pierce The VeilCoheed and CambriaDance Gavin DanceUnderoathChiodosEmeryFrom First To LastHolding AbsenceL.S. DunesMy Chemical RomanceSleep TheorySleeping with Sirens
Find acts like Sparta at upcoming festivals
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