Threat Signal was formed in late 2003 by cousins Jon and Rich Howard, eventually they added guitarist Kyle McKnight and began writing material. In early 2004, drummer Adam Matthews joined the band. Threat Signal posted their song "Rational Eyes" on an international metal chart on GarageBand.com. After a few weeks, the song reached #1, and it has received many awards including best guitars, best drums, best male vocals, best production, song of the week, and song of the day. In August 2004 Eric Papky, Kyle's former guitar teacher, joined the band on bass. Success on GarageBand.com sparked some early record label interest and helped create a large following even prior to the band ever having played live. In August 2005 Marco Bresette replaced Eric Papky on bass guitar.