Adding improvisational skills and a complex structure to their fast paced, three chord abrasives, Cigar stood out amongst the punk crowd in which they were apart of since their 1996 origin. Formed in Eugene, Oregon by Big Jon (drums), Jason (bass) and Rami (vocals/ guitar), the three took the name of Cigar and eventually relocated to San Diego, California in 1998; but not before playing with the likes of A.F.I., Pennywise, Blink-182, D.I. and Rancid. Following their move, Theologian Records took notice and immediately released their full-length debut Speed is Relative in 1999.