I am Dustin Bates, the singer and primary songwriter of the cinematic rock band STARSET from Columbus, OH, and this is my AMA.
Verified AMA
I am originally an engineer by trade and am into science, movies, politics, and history, so lets get weird.
I am also able to answer some questions regarding our involvement with The Starset Society, though not currently at liberty to go into great detail on some topics.
Check out our debut album ‘Transmissions’ on iTunes or Amazon or Spotify or Google Play.
Feel free to ask whatever you like about STARSET topics like songs, production, and the live show.
I will be here from 4pm - 5:30pm EST and will do my best to answer most questions, including ones that come in after the AMA over the next day or so.
Sort by:
Best
Open comment sort options
Best
Top
New
Controversial
Old
Q&A
Is Downplay dead now that Starset has taken off like it has, or will we still occasionally get an EP from time to time? Also, favorite comic book character and why?
I hope Downplay isn't dead! I have written a few new Downplay songs here and there...I just need to have the blessing of the label to release new Downplay stuff is all. So we shall see...
I actually dont really like comic books. Kinda crazy, I know. The decision for TSS to push comics was Aston's decision...he wanted to reach that demographic to promote the Message, in a similar way to how STARSET has began to reach music people.
Any new Downplay at all is good in my book. If you do another rerecording of an older song I suggest The Stain. First song I heard by you guys and still jam to it all the time.
Dustin,
Where did you find the transparent touchscreen you use onstage? That thing is too sick!
http://smithsonmartin.com/
tell them i sent you so they give me free shit.
That is the sexiest piece of equipment I have ever laid eyes on!
Comment deleted by user
Glad you like the music. Aston is a brilliant man and intends to enlighten people. When the Message is unveiled, you can decide for yourself.
interestingly mysterious..
Love Transmissions! I listen to it almost every day on my way to work. What would be your dream band to tour with?
I'd love to be on the 30STM and Linkin Park tour going on right now.
I would love to be on the Breaking Ben tour when they come back...
7 years later and you're on tour with Breaking Benjamin now!
And they've got a single together, god this band has come far!
How cool, right?
Thanks for the reply. Also, I would probably crap myself nutty if either of these tours happened!
I saw the tour in VA a few weeks back and had that same thought. Love the new album, keep it up! Great hearing you guys on Sirius Octane, too.
You guys would fit perfectly on a BBen tour
Huge fan and met you at the Newport KY show!
Few questions:
What were some bands that you would consider "favorites"?
Inspiration for "Let It Die" lyrics?
Is there any plans to remix any of the other album songs like you did with "Let It Die"?
Thanks and hope to see you in Cincinnati sometime!
I have a zillion 'favorite' bands. so many so that it is kinda funny. But favorite inspirations would be Sigur Ros, NIN, deftones, 30STM, MUSE, Breaking Benjamin. A couple of my favorite newer bands are probably Nothing More, The 1975, and BMTH.
in addition to Thomas's story, I included some of my own relationship woes into it as well I think, subconsciously.
Yes, I plan to do as many remixes as the label lets me.
We will be in Cinci soon. I have proof!
holy crap you have an amazing taste in music! what do you think about Breaking Benjamin's rebirth?
Wow, your music taste is awesome Dustin! We have the same taste, I also like BMTH and Breaking Benjamin a lot!
I love breaking ben and nothing more but to be honest my most favorite band of all is starset can't wait for y'all's next tour
Bruh BMTH is literally one of my favorite bands. but STARSET cannot be topped. BEST MUSIC EVER!!!!
What is the primary goal of the Starset Society? Is it just spreading awareness?
Essentially. Opening eyes right now. Then placing something in front of those opened eyes soon.
What is the clear electronic device you play live, how does it work and is it more of a prop vs an actual device that affects live shows?....
this thing
It is called an emulator, by smithson martin. While it looks cool and has a minority report vibe, it is very much operational. I use it to change various parameters in the electronic sounds via the halo pads and various buttons, as well as trigger sounds. Could I do it with a less extravagant piece of equipment, yes, but would you be able to see the action as well, no. Plus its look fits our general vibe.
I would like to hear the answer for this as well!
EDIT: nevermind, he answered it already
http://www.reddit.com/r/Music/comments/2eq9zc/i_am_dustin_bates_the_singer_and_primary/ck25q4f
Dustin, what's crackin?! Totally stoked for something different like "Starset" in the Rock Radio scene. As a HUGE fan of the works and history of Nikola Tesla, do you believe:
A: That he really was searching, and found transmissions from other beings from space?
B: The government is hiding evidence and or works from Tesla?
Even Tesla believed he found transmissions from space: http://earlyradiohistory.us/1901talk.htm
Did he actually? Were they from other beings? I cant be certain, but Aston and The Starset Society (TSS) believes so, and I definitely respect Aston's expertise on the topic.
TSS makes no claims of direct involvement of the US government, but rather a subset of those in power. I haven't heard about them hiding any of the work of Tesla, though there is always the rumor of the Death Ray: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_ray
So I went to http://thestarsetsociety.org/ and I'm a little confused. Is the organization a real entity insofar as that it exists outside of your music? Or is it simply for entertainment purposes? Love your music by the way. I blast it on my way to and from work!
TSS is an organization outside of STARSET. We exist to push their Message, which will be publicized in full soon, now that we are in Phase 2 of their Public Outreach Campaign. At that point, you can decide for yourself what to believe. In the meantime, feel free to just enjoy the music if you so choose.
Thoughts on the Tesla/Edison relationship? Do you think Edison was really a patent-thief, liar and manipulator? Is Tesla all he was cracked up to be?
I've been a huge Tesla fan for years, and I gather that you are too. Curious to hear in-depth what your thoughts are.
When I was in 5th grade a read a bio on Edison and became a huge fan. He inspired MUCH of what I am today, so I owe something to him for that. In addition, his companies and patents have by and large changed the world for the better. That being said, now having read more adult accounts of his life and practices, I find him to have been a mega-douche.
Tesla was a BRILLIANT visionary, uninterested in wealth and unafraid of the public view of him. He was working for a better future--and an incredibly visionary one at that--and I admire him for that. Unfortunately, I do think he got lost in that vision somewhat and sort of lost his scientific ways. Seems to have become more of a mystic in later life. But maybe there was a reason.
I agree! Most of my research has led me to the same conclusions all around. Still bitter about Tesla's demise, I feel like Edison had way too much influence in ruining his career.
Dustin,
Here are some non-music related questions:
Favorite movie this year?
Is there any politician you think is heading in the right direction?
Favorite period in history?
I used to watch movies all the time, but now I haven't really been able to as much as I'd like, nor have I had a movie partner and I dont wanna be the weirdo at the theater by myself. Of the movies I've watched tho, I think my favorite was definitely Grand Budapest Hotel followed by Snowpiercer.
I'm not sure about the politician question. Probably not, though I cant say I'm abreast of all of the up-and-comers. They sort of all creep me out.
Favorite period in history is probably turn of the 20th century. The era of the inventors. But when people say they want to live in other eras, they fail to realize that they would likely just be a poor peon in that era, statistically. Now is the best era for comfort and wealth. We live like EMPERORS compared to those even a hundred years ago.
Hey man first off I wanna say what an inspiration and how fresh your band is.....I too am working and primarily writing music on my own ...trying to become better at mixing and all that fun .....great work on transmissions...one if the best musical adventures I've been on in a long time.....what's your approach when your going into the studio to write/produce? Is it the whole band with you and you just work out your separate parts or do you do a lot of the arrangements and production yourself alone?
yo! I do a lot of the arrangement alone, though sometimes I write with different friends to try to get some outside perspective and ideas. I went into the STARSET record with a clear idea of what I wanted it to sound like though.
As for production, Rob Graves and I got weird on it. He is brilliant and one of my great friends. We are on the same nerd levels.
Hi Dustin! Just wanted to say first that I am absolutely in love with Transmissions. I've been listening to it almost nonstop since I picked it up, and was stoked about it for weeks before that. It is an incredibly refreshing and unique album in the rock genre, and I can't wait to see you guys live when you come through MI!
My question to you is this: as a songwriter, where do you pick up your inspiration for your songs? I am an aspiring author myself and I enjoy writing immensely (primarily fantasy and sci-fi) and I just love the imagery and the "story" your songs seem to tell when I listen to them. How do you manage to get that across in your lyrics, and where does your inspiration come from when you write?
Thanks for doing this AMA!
Thank you!! I drew from Thomas's life story and his Message. His story is amazing and I was able to use it to hopefully create a picture of love and light triumphing over resistance in a dark world. The Message provided that world. The resistance. It also provided the themes of future, space, and technology. Hopefully people feel that element of realistic positivity and hope in it. And hopefully it inspires people to look further into the Message when it comes out.
Dustin I love you so much! Will you please please please pleaaaaaase come to Europe soon? We need you here!
Bonus question: will you guys be selling some more autographed CD's through your merchandise website? My best friend is in love with you and your music and I would love to give her an autographed copy. Because we are true love, and I would like you to join our love <3
As for the "let's get weird"-part: if you could be an animal, which one would you choose?
Many apologies for some possible mistakes, English is not my native language.
Xoxoxox
SymbolicFox
Hiii!!! I want to come back to Europe so bad! I love it there!
As for signed stuff, we currently have signed posters and graphic novels at starset.wazala.com. Signed CDs you have to get at shows, for now.
I would probably be an eagle or something that flies. I have dreams where I can fly. These dreams are usually followed by me falling from high places, so its not always good ha! The only weird part is that birds typically eat some gross stuff, so that is a downside.
So Icarus is like a manifestation of Dustin's dreams? Crazy
Hi there, Mr. Bates. I'm a big fan not just of Starset, but Downplay too. As the singer and songwriter in a band myself, you're an inspiration.
Your prior work in Downplay certainly featured atmospheric elements ("The One Who Laughs Last" comes to mind). What inspired you to take that to the next level with Starset? Have you had your eye on cinematic melodies for a while now?
Thank you so much!! As for the cinematic vibe, when Aston from TSS approached me with the Message, it quickly became apparently that a cinematic, soundtrack-esque sound was necessary to give it the full authority and attention it deserved.
PS, I have been pleasantly surprised with the recent popularity of 'The One Who Laughs Last'! We are still paying the bank back for STARSET, so that song and a couple other downplay songs has been keeping me out of the poorhouse. (barely ha!)
Dustin, do you think the USCOO is responsible for the shutdown of the NIF in California, and the failure of recent NASA programs centered around the search for hospitable planets in our general neighborhood? Also, because Transmissions is in support of the message, will there be another album even if there's no further information to release?
It is my understanding that they only shifted their focus from the Laser Inertial Fusion Energy program, rather than shut down entirely. That being said, though I am not privy to such information, I wouldnt put it past the USCOO. That is DIRECTLY in line with what they are trying to do. The monopolization of energy is the first step in the plan.
The continued slowdown of NASA accomplishments may indeed be due to the ulterior motives of others...
I certainly predict more albums with STARSET. We exist to promote the causes of The Starset Society, not just the Message. I believe Aston will certainly have more things to shine light on if they are successful in the publication of the Message. But this is an intense situation and we must focus on it first.
Transmissions has given me a drive to expand my knowledge and understanding of current events, at least as they pertain to space exploration and impactful scientific developments. During my research, I noticed those events in particular and something just seemed off. I'm glad to hear I'm not alone in thinking that there's an outside influence working against us here. Thanks for the answer, looking forward to seeing you in October!
First, I'd like to say that Transmissions is my favorite album this year so far! Thank you for bringing such an awesome piece of music into my life.
My question is: is there ANY chance we could get an instrumental copy of Transmissions? It's like, I keep throwing money at the screen with no results.
Who knows, it is possible! I have an instrumental version on my computer...jealous?! lol.
I mean, yeah. I'm pretty jelly.
Hey Dustin, huge fan here. I remember first hearing "My Demons" on Octane and loving the sound, after that I looked all around the internet and found out Starset hadn't released an album yet. I checked your Twitter, Facebook, and website everyday waiting for new info on the album and was so stoked when it released!
I also found out about Downplay after listening to Starset, so I guess my question is, will you continue to write more material for Downplay or are you going to focus on Starset from here on out?
Also, what bands/artists inspired you to become a musician?
I have written a few new Downplay songs here and there...I just need to have the blessing of the label to release new Downplay stuff is all. So we shall see...
Too many artists to count, but the earliest were Phil Collins, Michael Jackson and Pink Floyd as a young boy. Then Metallica and Weezer soon after.
Hello Mr. Bates, as everyone else I am a huge fan of yours. I noticed you said you were an engineer by trade. Does this mean you got your Bachelor's in some sort of engineering field? I'm currently getting my Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, but I love music and I'm hoping I can somehow manage working as an engineer while also working on my music. Is this what you did, and if so how difficult was it?
Yo! I have a bachelors in EE and a master's degree in Avionics Engineering, which is basically navigation and robotics. I was working on a PhD when I got a record deal.
I just did my best to put the appropriate amount of effort into both simultaneously. I was lucky that school was pretty easy for me, I guess.
When you find interest and passion in things, they tend to become drastically easier.
Thank you so much for replying! You are awesome inspiration, looking forward to hearing more of your music.
Where did the idea for the suits come from and why do you not wear one like the other guys? Also I saw you a few months ago at the fillmore in Denver CO and was amazed. One of the best shows I've been to in a long time.
Thank you! The suits relate to the Message, as there is a space element to it. I don't wear a suit for a number of reasons. First, I like the artistic dichotomy it creates on stage. Secondly, there is symbolic purpose to me dressing different than the guys. I am representing TSS up there.
I absolutely like your album. You're one of the few bands who has an album that I like all the songs, and that's rare. One thing I'm not too crazy about, however, are the long instrumentals at the end of most of your songs.
So I guess my question is, will this be an aspect of your music that you will carry on into future albums?
Thanks for taking your time to read this and for the fantastic music!
Thank you! Yes, some people do not like the instrumentals, while for others it is their favorite part.
This will likely be carried further into the albums, but possibly in a different manner. I have to wait and see what inspiration may come from TSS. I plan to always attempt to innovate.
I know I'm a little late but I wanted to say I absolutely love Starset. I seriously cannot stop listening to Transmissions and have recommended it to everyone I know. I've been looking all over for more cinematic rock but even Spotify's related bands list doesn't come close to your sound. So I guess my question is what other bands you would recommend if you have any?
Also, does the Starset Society have an office in Italy?
Red is somewhat similar. Maybe a little heavier, but still pretty close.
What is cinematic rock?
Where did you guys get your start? Also, who and or what inspires you most?
I wrote and recorded most of the record in Nashville TN in early 2013. I guess the enabling "start" came from the person who initially paid for the recording and writing costs.
I was most inspired by the account of Thomas and his Message, though I certainly incorporated some of my story as well, consciously and subconsciously. Musically, the inspiration runs the gamut from NIN and Owl City to Sigur Ros and Deftones.
Hey Dustin! I LOVE your work with Starset and Downplay! :D
Speaking of Downplay, I was just wondering if there would be something in the future related to it?
And is there gonna be another music video with Starset? :P
Finally, wanted to let you know that it is super awesome that you are coming to Quebec in October, i'll be there just for your band! Keep doing what you do!
merci beaucoup!
There will be plenty more music videos with STARSET.
Hey Dustin! Being in school for computer engineering, and also sharing the same name as you, I was wondering what kind of engineer you are and what school did you go to?
That is awesome Dustin! Keep it up. I have a bachelors in EE and a master's degree in Avionics Engineering, which is basically navigation and robotics. I was working on a PhD when I got a record deal. I went to Ohio University!
Hi Dustin, first off, congratulations on releasing what's gotta be one of the best debut albums ever. Such an amazing array of sound and dynamics! I can't stop listening to it. And I've heard a LOT of music in my 50+ years!
Only 2 questions: will you be coming to the Detroit area anytime soon? And even though you just released your debut, Im curious if there's anything you've got in the works for your next one? Thanks, and God bless!
Thank you! Really glad you dig it!
We are playing at the machine shop soon, and if that is too far away, I have heard a little rumor that we will be in detroit in november.... keep a look out on our website, fb, or bandsintown app!
The next record is a little ways off, but I don't intend to let my efforts up!
Thanks so much for responding, I'll be looking forward to seeing you guys live!
How do you view Hacktivism?
The issue with hacktivism is that it is used to promote people's political stances and opinions. It can be effective, but who is to say whose opinion is correct? How does skill at hacking correlate to the 'correctness' of an opinion.
As a hyperbolic example, imagine a world where the group with the best hackers is the group that triumphs. What are the chances that that goup has the right answers?
I prefer the tried and true methods of discourse and debate.
Immense fan of your work with Downplay and Starset Dustin. Transmissions is the best album I've heard in a fair few years, you've been by far my favorite songwriter for a fair while now. My questions;
What was the process behind writing My Demons; how did the track begin to form and such?
When writing My Demons, did you think that it was going to be the 'Crowning Jewel' of the album, as it were?
Do you believe in there being a 'Creator' of the universe? And do you believe in an afterlife or an eternal oblivion after death, or neither?
I wrote My Demons with my friend Stevie Aiello, the bassist/keyboardist of Thirty Seconds to Mars, when we were living in the same apartment in LA. The demo was actually recorded using Tomo from 30STM's guitar.
I didn't think it would be the crowning jewel at the time, per sey, and still don't. The story of this record is still being written...
I believe in this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8HEwO-2L4w
It seems others are have the same confusion about "The Starset Society". Please release any/all information you are able. Also: (Pretty sure you have already, & if you have..) Would Starset go on [another] tour with RED anytime? Lastly: Congrats on Transmissions album - Fantastic!
It is not my place to release TSS info. All I know is that a very specific account will be released at some point. Although that time is drawing nearer, I am not sure when it will be. The information will eventually be released and then you can decide for yourself. In the meantime, you can always just listen to the music. Really glad you like it!
Would LOVE to tour with RED. Love those guys!
7 years later and you currently are touring with them!
Hi Dustin - many artists have a difficult time with follow up albums - they either repeat the same album they made, or change too much and end up alienating fans with too much change. With that being said, with a project like Starset and an album like Transmissions, how on earth could you create a follow up some day that isn't an exact duplicate, or too much change compared to Transmissions? Or, do you plan on this being a one-time album without a true follow up? I know this album took a lot and you might not be thinking that far ahead yet (especially with Downplay still being active) but I'm curious! Thanks a lot.
I hope to write a follow up to Transmissions at some point. I will use inspiration that comes to me at the time and will do my very best to make something great. Will it change? Likely. Will it change too much for people? I don't know. I just know I will work incredibly hard on it when the time comes. Hopefully it will be a great record that can stand on its own separate from Transmissions.
One of my favorite records of all time is Weezer's sophomore record, Pinkerton. MANY fans of the Blue album found that it had changed too much from the Blue album and hated it. But that didn't mean it wasn't fantastic. It went on to inspire many musicians and bands. Long story short, try to make something great. Hopefully the original fans--by and large--like it, and if they don't, maybe it is indeed bad, or maybe, sometimes, fans can be wrong.
Pretty much what I was hoping you'd say - thanks for the response. Can't wait until you guys come up to Portland, ME in October. I'll be in the front row.
Comment deleted by user
Rob Graves produced the record. He also did the pre-Benson RED records, so there is bound to be a similarity in sound to RED. Also, I am a fan of theirs. I found some inspiration in their dynamics and incorporation of symphonic elements.
Do you have any advice for an aspiring rock musician?
Focus on the song writing! Having a great tight band with an awesome sound is fantastic, but the number one thing that is going to get you anywhere is good songs!
Hey where did you find the helmets you wear onstage? They are awesome !
They are an amalgamation of a number of different components. I am actually working on the Mark II design now and they are way better!
I'm planning on being a musician myself and I wondered a few things and since "Transmissions" Inspired me to do so, I wanted to ask you. How did you begin making music and getting noticed? And, How long did it take to make the song "Point of No Return" Personally it's my favorite track on the album, because of the aggression behind the vocals in the chorus. One last question about the "Carnivores" in your album, it signifying something else?
I started making music YEARS ago. In fact, my other band 'Downplay' had a record deal with Epic for a bit. I did this by working on songwriting. Songs are what typically get you noticed. It sounds obvious, but many bands don't realize it.
'Carnivore' does, in fact, signify something else. That will be evident when the Message is released
Is the "Message" Exposing the wrong in our world/ exposing the lies, or revealing new ideas, etc. ?
Hi Dustin, loved seeing you guys in Hermosa with Framing Hanley. Love the new Album. 2 questions:
What are you favorite sci-fi films?
Have they influenced your music?
http://www.revolvermag.com/news/dustin-bates-of-starset-picks-the-top-5-sci-fi-movies.html
Their soundtracks have influenced me.
Dustin!
What's the plans for europe so far? Im missing you guys on spotify :( And is there a chance of an european tour, or is it too early?
We would love to get over there after our record releases this fall!
Heyyyyyy I love the band! You guys are amazing and you guys should totally come to NC! But one good question! What does your song Halo mean??