Paul Hinojos also formerly of At the Drive-In, who left Sparta just last week, recently joined The Mars Volta. Hinojos has (again) accepted the position of sound manipulator in the band, a post formerly occupied by the late Jeremy Ward who passed away in 2003. Paul performed the same role a few years ago and had been extended an "open invitation."

Hinojos had this to say: "My time with Sparta has run its course and simply wasn't fun anymore."

Omar Rodriguez added that:

We've been friends since we were kids, played in bands together for years and Paul was close to Jeremy. It's always been clear to me that Paul was the only person [who would] be appropriate to take Jeremy's place and fill what we feel is an integral role within the band.

Hinojos rejoined the Mars Volta midway through their current tour. The band is out in support of Frances the Mute.