Andrea's Music Column Andrea gives her views on what's hot and what's not in the music industry Andrea interviews The States - 31st October 2003

The States interview "We're called The States and we're from The States," said Previn Warren. "Because we are currently studying at Harvard University, Massachusetts," said Chris Snyder, "this means that we can be classed as the boys next door. But we would like to move out." The three piece band comprises Previn (bass and backing vocals), Chris (guitars, lead vocals) and Ian Mackenzie (drums).

The States formed in October 2002.

"We are a relatively new band," said Previn.

"I had been playing in some jam and funk bands and felt it wasn't going anywhere. I heard some of Chris' solo demo recordings and was very impressed. We jammed on some Radiohead and Alice in Chains songs and decided we liked the dynamics.

Although we were trying to play "lucky" by Radiohead during our first rehearsal and Ian couldn't figure it out; we were all pretty discouraged afterwards. But luckily the second rehearsal went much better. Things just went on from there!"

"We met at Harvard," said Chris. "None of us are studying the music programme, though. It is too classical for our tastes. We don't get any support from our teachers; we are on our own with this one."

"Previn and Ian had both played in a bunch of bands before," said Chris, "but I had zero experience of being in a band. I spent a few summers with a tape 4-track in my garage, recording a few solo records. And I have played violin in an orchestra."

Chris has sung in films such as The Crow, The Santa Claus (the Tim Allen film), a Friday the 13th film, Anastasia, Anywhere but Here, The Cable Guy and Sleepers. His voice has also been heard on adverts for Nissan and Frigidare.

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