Ohio punk band Dead Poetic, formed in 1997 by Brandon Rike (vocals), Zach Miles (guitar), Josh Shellabarger (drums), and Chad Shellabarger (bass), gained recognition at Cornerstone 2000 Festival, leading to a deal with Tooth & Nail Records. Their debut album, Four Wall Blackmail, was released in 2002, followed by New Medicines in 2004. After lineup changes, the band reformed with Rike and Miles joined by new members, releasing the alternative rock-influenced Vices in 2006 with production from Chino Moreno and Aaron Sprinkle.

Dead Poetic, from Ohio, emerged in 1997 with a unique punk sound for the new millennium, led by Brandon Rike (vocals), Zach Miles (guitar), Josh Shellabarger (drums), and Chad Shellabarger (bass). Their early success at Cornerstone 2000 Festival caught the attention of Tooth & Nail Records, leading to studio time and the release of their debut album, Four Wall Blackmail, in 2002. Following lineup changes, Dead Poetic reformed with Rike and Miles, releasing Vices in 2006, featuring production from Chino Moreno and Aaron Sprinkle, showcasing their alternative rock influences.