�We finally feel that we are at a place where we can wholly express ourselves,� said drummer Tony Hajjar about their new label. �We are able to experiment with all of our ideas and Hollywood is embracing them. They have shown a level of support and trust that we haven�t truly seen before.�

The quartet (rounded out by vocalist/guitarist Jim Ward, bassist Matt Miller and guitarist Keeley Davis) is currently in pre-production and will begin recording in Los Angeles in March. While in the studio, the band will produce a series of video podcasts, the first of which is available now at www.spartamusic.com.

The El Paso/LA-based band is also working on a short film, which will likely be packaged with their Hollywood debut. The movie will be based on drummer Hajjar�s traumatic childhood, growing up with an ailing mother amidst a civil war in Beirut, Lebanon. The band will provide the film�s score.

After two critically lauded albums, Sparta is well aware of the high expectations surrounding a new record. �It�s a big evolution for us,� says Miller. �In the past we�ve been on a constant cycle of touring, quickly writing and recording a new record, then returning to the road. Now we�re taking our time to write, rehearse and shape the new material. What�s coming out is a sound with more layers and textures and songs with solid structure. And Keeley definitely brings a more defined melody to the band.�

Sparta met Keeley, formerly of the Richmond, VA-based groups Denali and Engine Down, while touring together last year. �We�re proud to welcome him to the band,� says Ward. We love what he�s done in the past and his musical ability, vocals and down-to-earth personality is a perfect fit for us.�