Formed in 1997 by Jason Hammel and Kori Gardner, Mates of State have become one of today's most creative and popular indie pop acts. Writing songs that feature organ and drums underneath dueling vocals and complex harmonies, Mates of State have carved out a niche that is all their own, and continue to expand and develop their sound with each record. Moving from Lawrence, Kansas to San Fransisco, California, the duo found themselves in a rich musical community. Quickly becoming a staple of the San Fransisco scene, they played many shows at local clubs like The Bottom of The Hill, and by 2000 found themselves touring up the west coast.