30 Seconds to Mars

Initially known for his work as an actor (most notably on the ’90s TV drama My So-Called Life and in movies like Requiem for a Dream and Fight Club), Jared Leto also had musical ambitions. His band, 30 Seconds to Mars, debuted in 2002 with a self-titled effort featuring a post-grunge sound suggestive of groups like Chevelle and Incubus. 30 Seconds returned three years later with the platinum-selling A Beautiful Lie, an emotional album based around the concept of change that touched on metal and neo-prog. By that point the lineup had shifted a little, slotting in Tomo Milicevic on guitar alongside Leto’s vocals and guitar, his brother Shannon Leto on drums, and bassist Matt Wachter. Constant touring and an expanding fan base sparked several nominations and awards at the MTV Video Music Awards (both the American version and several international editions of the ceremony). Wachter left the band in 2007, the same year the band toured around the world, including spots on major festivals (Roskilde, Pinkpop, Download) and support roles for the Used and Linkin Park. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide