Spring Break
Mates of State keep it in the family
Alex McElroy
Issue date: 5/23/08 Section: Diversions
Even if they do get a little sentimental at times, can you really blame them? They are a married couple who seem to be breaking the all the rules: They're still together after their bands performed together in 1997. After meeting they decided to leave their respective bands and perform with each other. They moved to San Francisco and began their motto of "Play. Anywhere, anytime." They performed at house parties and small venues along the California coast. They've moved up in the world since then, touring all across the U.S. and Europe.
In 2001 both Gardner and Hammel quit their jobs to focus solely on the band, and it has paid dividends. Their talents have grown exponentially since their decision to concentrate on music, and I, for one, am glad they did.
Mates of State will perform in Bend with Death Cab for Cutie and The Decemberists on May 24. The band will also be at the Sasquatch Festival. If you have the chance to attend their shows, I would recommend going - they are some of the best performers around, known for their inability to take their eyes off each other without compromising their sound.
The latest album is nothing new, but with the tendency for so many bands to change their sound, it's refreshing that this album is just on-par with their best and won't disappoint longtime fans.
Mates of State
Re-Arrange Us
Grade: A
Check Out: "Get Better," "My Only Offer," "You Are Free"
Skip: Any other CD you may be listening to
Alex McElroy
diversions@dailybarometer.com
In 2001 both Gardner and Hammel quit their jobs to focus solely on the band, and it has paid dividends. Their talents have grown exponentially since their decision to concentrate on music, and I, for one, am glad they did.
Mates of State will perform in Bend with Death Cab for Cutie and The Decemberists on May 24. The band will also be at the Sasquatch Festival. If you have the chance to attend their shows, I would recommend going - they are some of the best performers around, known for their inability to take their eyes off each other without compromising their sound.
The latest album is nothing new, but with the tendency for so many bands to change their sound, it's refreshing that this album is just on-par with their best and won't disappoint longtime fans.
Mates of State
Re-Arrange Us
Grade: A
Check Out: "Get Better," "My Only Offer," "You Are Free"
Skip: Any other CD you may be listening to
Alex McElroy
diversions@dailybarometer.com
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