Altered State (band)
| Altered State | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Background information | |
| Origin | Huntington Beach, California |
| Genres | Progressive rock |
| Years active | 1990–1995 |
| Labels | Warner Bros. Records |
| Website |
www.alteredstate.com alteredstatedos |
| Members |
Gregory Markel Chip Moreland Bob Knarley Christian Nesmith |
| Past members |
Gregory Markel Chip Moreland Curtis Mathewson Paul Edwards Riz Story (Debut Tour) |
Altered State was a progressive rock band based in Huntington Beach, CA. Influenced by Pink Floyd, Rush, Led Zeppelin and U2. Altered State has been described as "an inventive band with unique arrangements, melodic vocals and great harmonies."
History
Altered State was formed in 1990 in Huntington Beach, CA by vocalist/guitarist Gregory Markel, drummer Chip Moreland and guitarist Curtis Mathewson, previously performing together in the band Show of Hands. In 1990, Altered State signed with Warner Bros. Records. With the loss of bassist Howard Ulyate, Mathewson covered both bass and guitar duties on the debut record.
In 1991, the band released their eponymous debut album and the first single, "Step Into My Groove." Their second single, "Ghost Beside My Bed," was their biggest hit, reaching #1 on Rock Radio charts and the top 30 nationally.
In 1993 the band released :[dos]:. The album garnered some minor hits for the band with "Strong As I Am" (Top 5 Phones), "Life on a Skateboard", and "Darkness Visible" all of which received regular airplay at Pirate Radio. The album won that year's Circus Magazine Readers' Poll, over Nine Inch Nails and Stone Temple Pilots.
Warner Bros. dropped the band in late 1994, after the departure of Curtis Mathewson and bassist Paul Edwards. The band broke up in 1995.
In 2006, the band announced their return with Markel, Moreland, bassist Ulyate and Christian Nesmith on guitar.
Members
Gregory Markel
The vocalist and guitarist for Altered State from 1990 until 1995, Gregory Markel embarked on a solo career in 1997.
Chip Moreland
The drummer for Altered State from 1990 until 1995, Chip Moreland aka Ziggy Knarley of Dread Zeppelin and drummer for Star Tomorrow winner Cindy Alexander.
Curtis Mathewson
Guitarist of Altered State from 1990 until 1994, Curtis Mathewson went on to produce the band Train, Motorhead, Foo Fighters. And released two albums with Gentlemen of Leisure.
Riz Story
Riz Story, the debut tour bassist for early 1992. Released albums with the band Anyone.
Paul Edwards
Since leaving Altered State, Paul Edwards is currently working on solo material.
Band members
- Gregory Markel - Lead vocals, guitar (1990–1995)
- Chip Moreland - drums, vocals,(1990–1995)
- Curtis Mathewson - Guitar, vocals, keyboards (1990–1994)
- Riz Story - Bass (Debut tour) (1992)
- Paul Edwards - Bass (:[dos]: 1992 - 1994)
Discography
- Altered State August 27, 1991
- :[dos]: October 5, 1993
Singles
- Step Into My Groove - 1991
- Ghost Beside My Bed - #1 Rock Radio 1991
- Life On A Skateboard - 1993
- Strong As I Am - 1993
- Darkness Visible - 1993
Special Releases
- Step Into My Groove - magic single
- Step Into My Groove - psychedelic mix
- Step Into My Groove - psychedelic instrumental
- Strong As I Am - acoustic
Video
- Step Into My Groove - version 1
- Step Into My Groove - version 2
Bootlegs
- Show of Hands - 1988 Live @ Club Lingerie
- Altered State - Live @ The Fullerton Hop