Mind:state

Hey Per, First of I'd like to say thank you for taking your time and doing this interview with us and I hope we'll get some nice answers to our questions.

So Per, tell us a little about Mind:state, how did it all start?
- "Mind:state began back in 2001 I think when I decided that it was time to channel all the emotions and creativity that I kept inside. So from that spark of imagination, Mind:state was born. Since then I guess it has evolved quite a lot. The equipment I started out with was very crude. I borrowed my brother's stuff that he was no longer using. Made a few demo songs and thought "hey this is fun!" and just kept on going. A few demos later, an album and several compilations later, here's Mind:state!"

What are your biggest influences and what/where do you get your inspiration from?
- "My biggest influences - now - are without a doubt other electronic bands. Especially those that do neatly produced stuff like Assemblage 23 and trance giants like Armin van Buuren. I still get lots of influences from metal bands and also many pop bands. I try not to limit my intake of music to just one genre. What drives or inspires to make the music is my own life. Many things have happened in my life since the release of 'Decayed, Rebuilt', and making music is a nice way for me to channel what has happened into something good."

Does Mind:state differ from other bands in the same genre you think and in what way?
- "Well yes it does and of course, it does not. It's a combination of dance with melancholic and catchy melodies, and (I hope) good lyrics - which in itself isn't that unique. I try to make every song unique, and I find it very hard to stay within the boundaries of one typical sub-genre. I do what I feel is right for the moment. But as always I slide towards dance friendly songs so it tends to be similar to other bands I guess."

Do you have any plans for touring in a near future?
- "I always plan to tour! The question is will anyone book us. Book us now! We are ready to go anywhere anytime."

Do you have any upcoming releases? If so can you tell us about it?
- "I've been working on the follow up album to 'Decayed, Rebuilt' for a while now and I think it is finally nearing completion. The new album is called "Hollow" and you can hear some previews from it on Myspace or Vampirefreaks. The biggest difference between "Hollow" and "Decayed, Rebuilt" would be the vocals. Much improved and also more diverse. Also, this album is much more raw and dirty. It will pack a few dance floor hits and also a collection of slower paced ballad type of songs. It is an album for all tastes. If you enjoyed "Decayed, Rebuilt" you will love this, and if you didn't like "Decayed, Rebuilt" you will probably enjoy "Hollow" anyway."

Is it hard to make a living out of making EBM/industrial music?
- "Yes it is damn near impossible! The income from CD sales is a joke these days. Most of the money for me comes from people paying for downloads. The only way to make a living on this type of music is to really commit - make sure you are seen. There is an ocean filled with a diversity of bands that all want the same thing. So you need to really stand out. Promotion and a cool theme I guess. Take Combichrist for example, the music is not that special, but the way he presents it to you is hot. People love it. The problem for me is that I have a full time day job beside my music, which means that if I am to really make it in this scene I would have no spare time. Work 24/7, and it is difficult to commit that much time in hope that it will pay up in the end. Also, I love my day job."

Who or what band would be a dream for you to play with?
- "KMFDM would be a blast I think. Fun guys with a nice attitude. They pack a good crowd which is good for bands like Mind:state."

And last but not least, what does the future hold for Mind:state?
- "I guess I will go on forever with Mind:state. Hopefully we can get some gigs in the near future, release the new album 'Hollow' and an EP. After that it's back to the studio to make even better music! So stay tuned for a release soon! And I'll see you out there."