Simplicity Is The Name Of The Game by State and Madison

Here, the streets begin at zero, which the group felt was fitting in starting a brand new project.

After spending time writing new material, the band released a three song demo to the public of material recorded at the demise of the old band as well as teamed up with the new management company, Inject Entertainment Group to solidify the team. This helped to set the focus on getting the band back into the saddle in Chicago by giving people something to talk about while the new EP was in production.

The band entered into Million Yen studios to record what is now "Simplicity Is The Name Of The Game" in November 2005 and finished in February 2006. The band recorded with long-time friend, fan, and producer Andy Gerber, who has produced countless independent and major label projects over the years, including many of the windy city's platinum acts.

Singer Nickolas was a born singer and frontman. Starting in choirs from the age of 8, he is also a pianist, guitar player, and drummer. He was the frontman of two other local Chicago rock groups beginning at the young age of 14.

Guitarist Mark Tatara is an accomplished guitar player, having been in many local bands, and finally combining forces with Nickolas 6 years ago. His blend of jazz and blues playing, combined with his pop and rock tastes, add an incredible edge to the music.

Bassist Tony Martino, linked to numerous local bands as a singer and guitar player, had moved onto bass to join up with Mark and Nickolas' former band five years ago. Upon his plate of accomplishments, he was the touring guitar player for Local H for 3 years, and has toured the entire US and shared the club and arena stage with many platinum acts.

Drummer Jonah Kort has been playing drums for over a decade, and lent his skill to numerous projects. His heavy, rhythm oriented playing adds the perfect backbone within the songs of State and Madison.

With the lead single "Cold Shoulder" in the hands of MySpace listeners and college radio, the band is building steam touring the midwest in support of the new record. Touching on themes of love and loss, the album is at once familiar, but at the same time conveys a uniquely fresh take on what's happening in popular rock music today. State and Madison has already begun to put their own twist on the music they love, with songs such as the driving dissonance of "Control" and the epic power of "Come Home." The young, passionate four-some combines catchy riffs with hard-hitting beats making their style hard to deem "cookie-cutter". Take a listen. If you're not dancing shortly thereafter, check your pulse, you may be dead.

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