Washington, D.C.'s Smartbomb combines the attack of such legendary bands from the region (Fugazi, Shudder to Think) with the melodicism of such emo bands as Sunny Day Real Estate. Formed in the late '90s, Smartbomb commenced when longtime friends Scott Brotemarkle (bass/vocals) and Chuck Andrada (guitar/vocals) began playing together, resulting in the release of their first album, 1998's ...Here Comes the Slapback, on the local independent label Screaming Goddess Records. Afterwards, two other local musicians were welcomed onboard, drummer Derrick Decker and second guitarist Steve Augustine. This led to opening slots at such prestigious D.C. venues as the 9:30 Club and the Black Cat, for such nationally renowned acts as Matchbox 20, Fuel, Smashmouth, and Our Lady Peace. 2001 saw the release of their sophomore effort, Yeah. Well, Anyway..., their first for the Razor & Tie label. ~ Greg Prato