Flotsam and Jetsam

Flotsam and Jetsam

Flotsam and Jetsam are a US thrash metal band from Phoenix, Arizona. Formed in 1984, they are one of the long-running acts associated with the second wave of thrash metal, alongside bands such as Sepultura, Testament and Death Angel. Their sound is usually described as thrash metal, speed metal and heavy metal.

Formation and early years

The band begins with drummer Kelly David-Smith and guitarists Pete Mello and Dave Goulder, who are later joined by bassist Jason Newsted after he responds to a newspaper advertisement. Before taking their final name, the group uses the names Paradox, Dredlox and The Dogz. Vocalist Eric A.K. Knutson joins in 1982 after auditioning, Ed Carlson joins in 1983, and Michael Gilbert joins in 1985. Knutson becomes the only constant member through numerous lineup changes.

Flotsam and Jetsam record early demos including Iron Tears and Metal Shock and contribute to compilation albums before signing with Metal Blade Records. Their debut album, Doomsday for the Deceiver, is recorded in Los Angeles and released in 1986. Newsted then leaves to join Metallica.

Albums and label changes

After the debut, the band signs to Elektra Records and tours with Megadeth, Slayer and other acts. No Place for Disgrace follows in 1988, then When the Storm Comes Down in 1990 on MCA Records, Cuatro in 1992 and Drift in 1995. These albums show a move towards more melodic and progressive elements.

Following a period of reduced activity, the band returns to Metal Blade Records and releases High in 1997, Unnatural Selection in 1999 and My God in 2001. Knutson also pursues a side project called A.K. Corral during this period.

Later releases and activity

From 2002 to 2010, Flotsam and Jetsam play live sporadically and release the live DVD Live in Phoenix in 2004, followed by Dreams of Death in 2005 and The Cold in 2010. Ugly Noise appears in 2012 and includes contributions from former bassist Jason Newsted.

The band later re-records No Place for Disgrace in 2014 and tours widely in Europe. In 2016 they release the self-titled album Flotsam and Jetsam with drummer Jason Bittner, followed by The End of Chaos in 2019 with Ken Mary on drums. Blood in the Water comes out in 2021, and I Am the Weapon follows in 2024.

Current lineup and members

The current lineup includes Eric “A.K.” Knutson on vocals, Michael Gilbert and Steve Conley on guitars, Bill Bodily on bass and Ken Mary on drums. Over the years, the band’s membership includes Mark Vazquez, Jason Newsted, Kelly David Smith, Edward Carlson, Phil Rind, Mike Spencer, Troy Gregory, Jason Ward, Mark Simpson, Craig Nielsen, Eric Braverman and other former members listed in its long history.