The Draft today told Punknews.org that they have joined Epitaph. The band, which features Chris Wollard, Jason Black, and George Rebello of Hot Water Music formed in August 2005 when HWM went on an "extended break" after founding member Chuck Ragan decided to take some time to pursue other interests.

The band is set to enter the studio on March 6th, with Brian McTernan (Cave In, Snapcase, Thrice, Hot Water Music) at his Baltimore, MD Salad Days studio to begin work on their debut.

Following recording, the band will be headed out on tour with Avail and that will be followed by a set of dates with Alkaline Trio and the Lawrence Arms.

Keep an eye on Punknews.org for an interview with bassist Jason Black talking about the Hot Water Music split, and what can be expected from The Draft's debut.