C.O.C. started out as a punk band. The members were all teenagers during its original formation in 1981. On their later releases, they became a crossover/thrash metal band, and then turned into their modern sound, blending heavy metal with southern rock and Blues.

C.O.C. has been on hiatus many times, mostly due to the members concentrating on their own projects. Their last hiatus took place from 2006 to 2010. They have not released an official statement regarding Pepper's status in the band. Their official Facebook page lists the line-up as the above (Woody, Mike, Reed and Pepper). As the Mike/Woody/Reed lineup released a new single "Your Tomorrow" and managed to record a new album, it seems Pepper is still in the band but is not currently participating in it. C.O.C themselves have even stated that Pepper has never left the band.