Introduction and background:

My name is Sam Schafer, and I started 'Jackal Pack Attack' as a nu metal and post-hardcore inspired electronic rock project back in 2023! My musical background is very mixed, mainly coming from many years of creating video game soundtrack music, but I'd always wanted to branch out into the genres that I love to listen to - namely the two mentioned above. My main career is in genetics and life sciences, which serves as a main driving force behind the lore and identity of 'Jackal Pack Attack', which at this juncture I currently view as more of a storybook than a traditional band.

Musical identity:

The debut 2024 record 'Carnivora' was a completely electronic take on early 2000's nu metal (think Linkin Park and Papa Roach) combined with post-hardcore songwriting influence. Tracks often featured rhythm guitar with complex, distorted keyboard leads alongside rap-rock vocals. While later releases would ditch the rap-rock vocals in favor of delicate cleans with fry screaming, the electronic-to-alternative sound is still largely present within the overall soundscape. Beyond sound, Jackal Pack Attack aims to tell a gripping tale of future Earth, where new life has evolved to fill the same niche as humans do now. 'Carnivora' primarily delved into predator/prey dynamics, both in the literal and metaphorical sense, and current tracks expand on this by describing a troubled omnivorous kingdom in Pangaea Proxima. Every lyric tells a tale, which I believe keeps the music interesting.

Current work:

My latest release is 'The Elephant and the Mouse', which is the second single ahead of my upcoming sophomore album 'The Great Abandonment'. This track was intentionally released alongside the album announcement on April 24th since the core ideals, sounds, and progression of the track is largely representative of the content within the album. The track follows the plot of a carnivore-turned-herbavore who struggles to find acceptance in a world that treats him like a monster. Sonically, the sound of the track combines soft, vulnerable singing with guttural fry screams in classic post hardcore / metalcore fashion, inspired by the likes of Dance Gavin Dance and Of Mice & Men. Vocally, this is one of the most challenging songs for me to sing due to the high, belty notes of the chorus that are immediately followed by intense uncleans.

Promotion and engagement:

I do my best to engage with my small fanbase directly, as I can often afford to. Additionally, I share little snippets of new music (as long as I don't spoil any big story elements) and try to give back whenever I can! I mainly interact with fans through Instagram and Bandcamp, but outside of the internet I don't have much of a presence since Jackal Pack Attack isn't currently in the state where live shows would be possible. Although that is certainly the goal for the future, I'm limited to just being lurking online for now. Anyone can contact me through my social media (jackalpackattack on Instagram) or by reaching out via email (jackalpackattackmanagement@gmail.com).