To say that the South Wales five-piece Dream State have had a storming year already would be a bit of an understatement. From tearing it up at Download to Slam Dunk, the UNFD signed outfit have become prolific newcomers in the scene. Ahead of 2000 Trees, we spoke to guitarist Rhys about their journey so far and what we can expect from them in years to come.
You guys have had quite an impressive year racking up breakthrough act nominations; how has it been for you?
It’s been completely insane! We had no idea that we’d be nominated for the Kerrang! award, let alone winning it. It’s so affirming to see that our efforts are getting a positive reaction and we couldn’t have asked for a better year so far!
Recovery has had an excellent reception; what would you say were your biggest influences for the EP?
We drew inspiration from a lot of different places for this EP and we’re stoked with how it came out. Collectively, we were listening to a lot of bands like Hands Like Houses, Don Broco and Northlane, so you might hear some of those flavours dotted throughout. It feels like we’ve uncovered the foundation for our sound, so we can’t wait to build on it …
The Welsh music scene seems to be thriving with hardcore and post-punk at the moment; how does it feel being frontrunners in the game?
Wait … we’re the frontrunners now? Haha! I guess it’s not something we really think about, but it definitely feels like we’re treading down the same paths that bands like Funeral for a Friend, Bullet for my Valentine and Skindred have. It’s amazing that the music scene in Wales seems to be reliving that legacy.
This year you’ve played Download and Slam Dunk; what do you have in store for 2000 Trees?
2000 Trees is one of my favourite festivals and we’re there for the whole weekend so, provided we don’t end up MIA from partying too hard, then you can expect a live show with nice, summery circle pits. There could be another appearance from us as well, so keep your eyes peeled!
Your stages and fan base are rapidly getting bigger; how do you see the band progressing in years to come?
Hopefully just that; progressing. We’re constantly pushing ourselves to be bigger and better. Now is the time for us to go all in, so our biggest challenge is trying to keep our personal lives afloat in the process. Anyone who buys merchandise or a copy of Recovery is literally helping to keep this band alive and we are eternally thankful for that!
- Dream State are set to play The Axiom on Saturday.