Alternative metal outfit Trust Company (also referred to as TRUSTcompany and TRUST*CO) formed in Montgomery, AL, circa 1997 around Kevin Palmer (vocals/guitar) and Jason Singleton (drums). The two met after high school, initially playing in a local band together before breaking off to create their own group. Distinguishing themselves from the alt-rock pack in their merger of melody with guitar-driven metal, the group took influence from the likes of Pantera, the Smashing Pumpkins, and the Deftones. With Josh Moates on bass, the band played for three years as a trio; they recruited second guitarist James Fukai in 2000. Self-described as weekend warriors who refused to play covers, the guys played wherever people would have them, aptly covering the Southeast (and as far west as Texas) in their efforts to get noticed and get signed.