My musical taste has also matured a little, and apparently I’m not the only one. Chad Urmston, a.k.a. “Chetro” from Dispatch (one of the more successful indie acts of the last 10 years), has ditched the bongos and acoustic guitar for some mutton chops and an electric guitar littered with political stickers in his new band, State Radio. I’m sure many indie music snobs weren’t on board with Dispatch because of their popularity with frat guys, and that’s fine. I actually like them and already anticipate Oz and Woody bashing them mercilessly. Should be fun.

Regardless, this newer State Radio stuff from Urmston is a breath of fresh air for fans and non-fans of Dispatch, alike. Urmston’s songwriting has evolved, and his politically-charged, left-wing lyrics are enough to even make Zack de la Rocha proud. State Radio produces a driving rock sound with ska and punk undertones that keep your foot tapping throughout.

State Radio’s 2002 debut EP release, Flag of the Shiners, features six fist-pumping gems, including standout tracks like “Gunship Politico” and “Mountain”. They’ve since followed up with the Peace Between Nations and Simmer Kane EP’s, as well as releasing their first full-length album, titled Us Against the Crown, all of which I enjoy and highly recommend if you’re looking for some edgy pop/rock.

Now, State Radio is back at it with a nice new single called “Wicker Plane” that you can listen to here. They’ve also announced a September 18th availability date for their next album, Year of the Crow, which promises to be yet another strong showing from the band.

State Radio - Camilo