Chicago-based alternative metal ensemble Soil formed in 1997 around the talents of vocalist Ryan McCombs, drummer Tom Schofield, bass player Tim King, and guitarists Adam Zadel and Shaun Glass. They released their debut EP, El Chupacabra!, in 1998, followed by the full-length Throttle Junkies in 1999. Their sophomore release (Scars) found success both nationally and internationally through two strong singles, "Unreal" and "Halo." It was followed in 2001 by an eponymous EP, and later in 2004 with re.de.fine. McCombs left the fold that year, eventually joining Drowning Pool.