Exclusive interview: State of Drama

With their forthcoming gig in Barcelona on the horizon, Swedish band State of Drama took some time out of their busy schedule for a short interview with Barcelona Metropolitan. Emil and Sebbe gave us a bit more of an insight into the band’s history and where they want to go in the future.

Members: Emil Gullhamn (lead singer), Sebastian Hallifax (drummer), John Isaksson (bass), Rickard Olausson (guitar), Stefan Koro (keyboard).

So, can you tell me a bit about how the band first met?

Emil: We’ve known each other since we were in high-school and we’ve stayed closed friends ever since. We met the rest of the guys about four years ago and that’s when we formed State of Drama.

Do you guys have any connections to Barcelona? Have you visited the city before?

Sebbe: The band is relatively new to Barcelona. I came on a school trip when I was about 15, but that’s it really. We’re really looking forward to getting to know the city and seeing the sights.

Emil: I have an interesting connection to the city. My old guitar teacher was actually from Barcelona. I can’t wait to come to the land of the guitar!

You mentioned that it’s difficult to label your music to any particular genre. What do you think it would be closest to?

Emil: That’s a difficult question to answer. I suppose we fit into both pop and rock, but we’re not exactly pop-rock. If you listen to ‘Nothing short of a miracle’ you can hear our softer, pop side, whereas songs such as ‘Drown’ show the heavier, rock side to State of Drama.

So, how are you feeling about the Hard-Rock café concert this month?

Sebbe: We are so excited. We are expecting it to be a crazy gig.

Emil: We are honoured to be playing such a legendary venue, in such an amazing city. We are also really looking forward to meeting our Barcelona fans.

State of Drama are extremely busy at the moment, writing new material, remixing and touring. They have also mentioned potential plans to spend some time in Barcelona, as a way to find some new songwriting inspiration. Barcelona summer festivals are also something they are hoping to get involved in. A new single is on the cards for next year, so watch this space.