Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
We are; Steve (singer) Corey (bass) Shawn (lead guitar) Matt(rhythm guitar) and Mike (drums)
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to State of Mine? How long has the band been around?
The band has transformed over the years with the addition and departure of singers and guitar players, changed from 5Stomp in high school, to St8 of Mine shortly after, and then in 2010 after the current band formed we finally settled on State of Mine.
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
It comes from a personal question of; " What state am I in? Where's my head and mind been? "
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
Until recently the lyrics were written by me (Steve, singer) until we went into the studio for the new EP "Devil in Disguise" I had the pleasure of co-writing 2 songs, "Curtain Call" and "Killing Me" with our producer BJ Perry.
There isn't one main theme that repeats. The songs are taken from different parts of my life and experiences I myself and we all have had. I don't think we will ever get stuck in a "central theme" because with new experiences in life brings new joys and heartches.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
I love The Amity Affliction, Nothing More, Bring Me The Horizon, and A Day To Remember
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
When I was younger I heard Slipknots first album and was floored.. I couldn't stop playing it.
But the inspiration to be a performer was Maynard, the front man of TOOL. His voice and lyrical content as well as his stage performance made me say, " I want to do that. "
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
We have our own pre-game rituals, and were no different than anyone else, so it usually includes a few drinks, coughing in a circle with our friends, and waiting eagerly the get on stage.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
The lyric video for our cover of Katy Perry's "Rise". We took a different view of the things happening in our neighborhoods and communities and wanted to try and bring the spot light back to uniting communities and paying tribute to the men and women police officers who wear the badge with pride and honor.
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Five Finger Death Punch, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pantera, Slipknot, Rob Zombie, The Amity Affliction, Sevendust, Bring Me The Horizon, TOOL, Primus, Black Sabbath.
Because most of these are the bands weve idolized or dreamed of touring with.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thank for having us here to answer your questions. Our EP " Devil in Disguise " releases September 15th. Make sure to check it out on iTunes and Google play store!
Always keep your nose to the grind stone, your feet on the ground, and your eyes to the stars.