Camp Element, Pittsburgh, Pa, was formed in 2001 after the remaining members of rap-rock group Chronic Groove evolved into a new, deeper, more diverse and emotional writing style. "We just wanted to do something with a little more meaning, something that we can relate to on stage," says Mark Clifford. This evolution was solidified by the recruiting of vocalist Jeff Cribbs from Pgh band Time Xpired.

The difference in the band's sound was immediate, and fans took notice. The band embraced this new stylistic journey with a real sense of urgency and immediately began to record their debut EP. In June 2001, Pittsburgh's alternative-rock station 105.9 the X, premiered Camp Element's first single, Maklin, on the air.

Along with the lineup change came a refreshed and equally aggressive work ethic. "It's like this," says Cribbs, "We're a family, a team, and we are all aiming for the same thing, that makes us that much more powerful as a group. There is nothing to stop us from spreading our message to as many people as we can. There are a million bands out there working toward the same goal that we are. We've just made up our minds to work harder."