Editors’ Notes L.A. alternative rock band Hoobastank got together in the early ‘90s, inspired by the funk-metal of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the grunge of Alice in Chains. The band released an independent album in 1998, and were soon signed to a major label. Their career really took off with the release of their aggressive 2001 self-titled second album, which made them one of the biggest groups of the nu-metal era. They later explored a softer side, however. Retaining their heaviness while pursuing a more melodic sound, Hoobastank's vibe in the post-grunge scene would be both hard-hitting and heartfelt.