Box Car Racer

ByLets Go Punk
Box Car Racer

Box Car Racer was an American punk band formed in San Diego, California, in 2001. Created as a side project of Blink-182 members Tom DeLonge and Travis Barker, the band pursued darker, more experimental ideas outside of Blink-182’s style.

History

Formation and Origins

Tom DeLonge formed Box Car Racer during a break in Blink-182’s touring schedule, motivated by delayed tour dates and personal frustration from chronic back pain. Initially conceived as a low-priority, experimental project, the band quickly evolved into a louder punk endeavor when Travis Barker joined. Guitarist David Kennedy was invited to complete the studio lineup, and bassist Anthony Celestino later joined for live performances.

Debut Album

Recorded over six weeks starting in December 2001 with a DIY spirit, Box Car Racer released its self-titled debut album in May 2002 on MCA Records. The album peaked at number 12 on the Billboard 200, with singles “I Feel So” and “There Is” charting on the Modern Rock Tracks. The project, however, caused tension within Blink-182, particularly between Tom DeLonge and bassist Mark Hoppus, as it marked a departure from Blink-182’s sound.

Touring and Impact

Box Car Racer made its live debut on April 1, 2002, with Anthony Celestino on bass. They embarked on a headlining tour across North America later that year, supporting acts like The Used. Although successful commercially, the side project deepened the rift between DeLonge and Hoppus, influencing Blink-182’s subsequent musical direction.

Breakup and Aftermath

By mid-2003, Tom DeLonge shelved Box Car Racer, feeling the project had run its course. The experience influenced Blink-182’s next album and strained relationships within the band, eventually contributing to Blink-182’s breakup in 2005. Unfinished material from Box Car Racer later surfaced in DeLonge’s band Angels & Airwaves.

Revival Rumors

In recent years, rumors of a Box Car Racer revival have circulated. Between 2018 and 2021, DeLonge and Barker worked on a new song that eventually became part of Blink-182’s track “Terrified.” As of now, there has been no official reunion announcement for Box Car Racer.

Musical Style and Influences

Box Car Racer’s sound is primarily described as pop-punk with darker, more introspective lyrics compared to Blink-182. The project was inspired by bands like Jawbox, Quicksand, Fugazi, and Refused, blending melodic elements with a hardcore edge.

Band Members

  • Tom DeLonge – vocals, guitars (2001–2003, 2018–2021); bass (2001–2002, 2018–2021)
  • Travis Barker – drums (2001–2003, 2018–2021)
  • David Kennedy – guitars (2001–2003)
  • Anthony Celestino – bass (2002–2003)

Discography

  • Box Car Racer (2002)

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