Jackson United

Jackson United is an American punk rock band formed by singer and lead guitarist Chris Shiflett in 2003. Shiflett recruited his older brother Scott Shiflett on bass and Pete Parada on drums to complete the band. The group released their debut eponymous EP in 2003. Following the release, Parada left the band and was replaced by Cary Lascala. The band was later expanded with the addition of rhythm guitarist Doug Sangalang.

History

Formation and Debut EP (2002-2003)

Chris Shiflett, better known as the guitarist for Foo Fighters and Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, formed the band as a side project to release his own material. Originally named ‘Jackson,’ after Chris’ pseudonym Jake Jackson, the band consisted of Chris Shiflett, his brother Scott Shiflett on bass, and Pete Parada on drums. Their debut EP, Jackson, was released on October 20, 2003, featuring five tracks recorded earlier that year.

Name and Lineup Changes

Shortly after the EP’s release, Parada left the band to focus on his role with Saves The Day. He was replaced by Cary Lascala. The band also added a second guitarist, Doug Sangalang. Due to difficulties obtaining legal protection for the name ‘Jackson,’ the band changed its name to ‘Jackson United’ in 2004. Around this time, Scott Shiflett left the band, and Omen Starr was brought in as the new bassist.

Western Ballads and Further Lineup Changes (2004)

The new lineup released their debut full-length album, Western Ballads, on October 11, 2004. The album consisted of songs from the EP sessions, and the newer members did not contribute to the recording. After touring to support the album, the band entered a period of inactivity due to Chris Shiflett’s commitments with Foo Fighters. Lascala and Starr eventually left the band, and Scott Shiflett returned to play bass.

Harmony and Dissidence (2007-2008)

In 2007, Chris Shiflett updated fans on the recording of their next album. With no full-time drummer, Foo Fighters bandmates Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins contributed drums for the sessions. The album, Harmony and Dissidence, was released digitally on April 8, 2008, followed by physical releases in Japan, Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The album featured additional contributions from Foo Fighters members Rami Jaffee and Drew Hester.

For the subsequent tour, Scott Shiflett was occupied with a reuniting Face to Face, so Charlie Ellis was brought in as the bassist. Joe Sirois from Mighty Mighty Bosstones was recruited as the band’s official drummer.

Band Members

Current Members

• Chris Shiflett – lead vocals, lead guitar (2003 – hiatus)
• Scott Shiflett – bass guitar (2003, 2004 – hiatus)
• Doug Sangalang – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2004 – hiatus)
• Joe Sirois – drums, backing vocals (2008 – hiatus)

Former Members

• Pete Parada – drums (2003)
• Cary Lascala – drums (2003–2007)
• Omen Starr – bass guitar (2004)

Current Touring Members

• Charlie Ellis – bass guitar (2008)

Discography

• Jackson (EP) (2003)
• Western Ballads (2004)
• Harmony and Dissidence (2008)