Insound Staff Pick - 2008! Mates of State are the ultra-likeable, über-intriguing duo of Jason Hammel and Kori Gardner. The couple is a non-stop touring presence whose live chemistry is genuinely magical. He sits behind the drum kit and sings, she plays a vintage Yamaha organ and sings.

CD $13.99

Other people also bought:

The Decemberists  Her Majesty, The Decemberists, Belle and Sebastian  Dear Catastrophe Waitress, The Shins  Chutes Too Narrow

Mates of State's unique, often complex, and always catchy pop gems defy genre boundaries. This husband/wife duo has released three previous full-lengths as well as numerous singles and EPs. Though a duo, they never fail to generate an abundance of melody and harmony via monster, bass-heavy organ, creative drumming, and alternately lushly layered and playfully dueling vocals. "Bring It Back" is Mates Of State at their complex yet lighthearted best: impeccably layered music that rewards attention, analysis, ...   [ read more ]

CD $13.99

Other people also bought:

Band Of Horses  Everything All The Time, Tapes 'n Tapes  The Loon, Love Is All  Nine Times That Same Song

Mates of State began a year and a half ago in preparation for a supposed move across country from Kansas. Kori (organ) and Jason (drums) had each been playing guitar and singing in a band tagged Vosotros, but knew it wasn't probable for all members to relocate. For fun, they both sat down behind their primary instruments and decided to re-hone their skills from childhood. They soon found themselves belting out harmonious songs with unique structures based loosely around the haunting sounds of an old Yamaha...   [ read more ]

CD $13.99

Other people also bought:

Rocking Horse Winner  State of Feeling Concentration, The New Pornographers  Mass Romantic, Bright Eyes / Son, Ambulance  Oh Holy Fools