Assembling around vocalist Derek Tibbett, guitarist Andy Howard, bassist Derek DeSantis, and drummer Ben Goins, the band began to slowly build a local following for its heavily derivative sound, but struck gold when an opening slot for another struggling act led to interest from a local promoter, who secured a few label showcases for the youngsters. As the story goes, MCA signed the band on the strength of its live show -- no demo tape needed. The label issued Twisted's debut, Escape From Cape Coma, in July 2003, and the group was sent out to spread the word with a run of second-stage Ozzfest gigs. ~ Johnny Loftus