Effective period / Period of releases: 2003

Gone Without Trace began in December of 2001. It was formed from three of the members who started a band called, Provoke, and played 2 shows under that name. After a few months of practice, they had their first show as Gone Without Trace in March of 2002. The band did not get serious until the summer of 2002 when they started to attack the hardcore scene, playing a flurry of local shows, recording a 3 song demo, and gaining the respect of other established bands and fans. Mid-way through the summer of 2002 an indie label out of Chicago named Niavete Records, started to notice the progress and buzz about this local hardcore band out of SoCal that was stirring things up. They got in touch with the band and negotiated a contract. Just as things started to get moving Gone Without Trace realized the band wasn't going to work out because they couldn't get along with the other two members. Mike, Ben, and Danny then asked their good friend Shane to join as the second guitarist and they then preceded to tryout new drummers. After a few applicants they decided on a kid named Justin. With the line-up solidified The Label re-negotiated the contract.
After the signing, GWT spent 3 months in writing, rehearsing, and preparation for their debut EP entitled Spectate Mortem, recording the EP, a tour with Falling Cycle, Scars of Tomorrow, Fallen Angel, and Cydne Raven, and played a sold out CD release show at Chain Reaction. The future looks bright with many local shows booked and plans of extensive Midwest and East Coast touring in support of the EP Spectate Mortem during the Spring and Summer months. Keep a watchful eye and expect more good things from Gone Without Trace.