TraderJoe's charcoal

Sorry that should be "have not tried".

TJ's use to sell lump charcoal, but then stop and sold briquets. Which was a shame because the lump charcoal was pretty good and a reasonable price. I have tried the briquets but then I haven't used briquets of any brand in a long time.

I assuming you were using briquettes. Not a very good idea unless you like petroleum flavored food. I always use lump charcoal beginning with a chimney starter. It will still spark but not like Vesuvius. I prefer oak or hickory but mesquite is satisfactory. Sometimes this is sold as "cowboy charcoal". No chemical accelerants, just wood.

Last time my husband used TJ's charcoal, so many sparks flew that one of the seat cushions on our outdoor chairs caught on fire.

I bet they would refund your bag price.

Not as good. Stick with the King. Everything at trader joes isn't always better (see Siracha).