Rancid are one of the seminal bands of their genre. Their brand of punk-rock with ska influences stands alongside Green Day and The Offspring as one of few bands to break through from their scene and achieve mainstream success. They were formed way back in 1991 by Matt Freeman (bass/vocals) and Tim Armstrong (guitar/vocals). The pair recruited drummer Brett Reid (who has since been replaced by Branden Steineckert) and began playing together. They recorded their debut, self-titled, album in 1993 though it did not chart. They followed it up in 1994 with 'Let's Go' which was their first album since guitarist Lars Frederiksen joined the band. Their most successful album came a year later - '...And Out Come the Wolves' - which received platinum status. 'Life Won't Wait' was the band's next record, which saw them branch out into different genres. However, the album was not as successful as their previous efforts. They signed to Hellcat records soon after and have released two albums since and have another due out for 2008. After an extended break period, Rancid reformed in 2006 to tour again.