Former Dispatch member Chad Urmston founded the Massachusetts-based State Radio after the former jam-oriented band called it quits. While Urmston’s political consciousness was a source of friction in Dispatch, State Radio thrives on the misdeeds of those in power. Both their debut, US AGAINST THE CROWN, and its follow-up, YEAR OF THE CROW, are lyrically fiery in a socially conscious vein. With their mishmash of reggae, alternative rock, ska, and punk, State Radio emulates bands like the Clash and Specials as well as Radiohead and recent tourmate Dave Matthews.