State of the Union

State of the Union

State of the Union is an electro and futurepop group based in Los Angeles, California, with an origin in Ontario, United States. The name is also used for other acts, but this entry refers to the Los Angeles-based electronic project fronted by Johann Sebastian.

Style and line-up

The group works within EBM and futurepop, and is also described as drawing on industrial, synth-driven and electronic styles. Its music combines hard-edged dance rhythms with more melodic and atmospheric material, including ballads and orchestral elements. Johann Sebastian handles vocals, lyrics and programming, and Jimmy Nimra plays drums.

Releases and themes

The debut album Black City Lights draws on the EBM and darkwave scene and brings together themes of philosophy, politics, love and symbolism. A later album, Evol Love Industry, follows and continues the project’s electronic and industrial approach. The group’s name reflects Johann Sebastian’s outlook and the emotional and political tone he aims to express in the music.

Performance

State of the Union is known for energetic live performances and has built a dedicated international following.