Inspired by local legends Black Flag and Descendents, Pennywise were formed by high school friends Jim Lindberg, Fletcher Dragge, Jason Thirsk, and Byron McMackin. After signing with Epitaph Records, the group began building their legacy, releasing skate punk and melodic hardcore albums full of catchy hooks, fast tempos, and songs about bucking the system. After Thirsk passed away in '96, the band hired Randy Bradbury and became staples on the yearly Warped Tour. The band's anthemic sound has been cited as a major influence by the likes of Blink-182, Rise Against, and Jimmy Eat World.