The band's inception took place in San Francisco in February of 1997 when Sammy (vocals), Jake (drums), Andrew (guitar) and Forrest (bass) adopted the name "All Bets Off" and began writing original material. Andrew and Jake had been playing together for about a year and were looking for a serious full-time bassist when they met Forrest in November of 1996. Sammy had made a name for himself in the local hard-core scene as a promoter and was looking to start his own band when he heard that a group of musicians were seeking a vocalist. The first jam sessions as a full band cemented the band's chemistry which quickly produced many original songs. The vibe on stage at their first gig at the Alameda Saloon on 4-4-97 was good so they took the next step of making a demo. The first demo tape, "Everyone is Suspect" was released around August '97 and after distributing a couple hundred copies, the response the band received at shows and in reviews were favorable. The band began playing more and more shows at small venues like the Bombshelter (now defunct), the Cocodrie and the Gilman. The band's second demo tape was released 12-19-97 and was also well received. The band began playing bigger shows at venues like Slim's in SF and going on short tours with bands like AFI. The band released their first 7" record in November '98 and will continue to play shows until the inevitable apocalypse ensues.
All Bets Off now has a seven inch available at their shows . This summer they are releasing a split 7" with Sworn Vengeance on One Scene Records . They will also appear on the new OBHC compilation . To contact All Bets Off click here or write to them at : ALL BETS OFF 530 divisadero #121 S.F. Ca 94117 . To visit All Bets Off's official site click here .
