Since bursting onto the rock scene in 2013 with Transmissions, STARSET has built one of the most unique identities in modern rock. Combining cinematic storytelling, science fiction concepts, orchestral arrangements and hard-hitting rock, the Columbus, Ohio-based band has amassed billions of streams and a devoted global following through albums like Vessels, Divisions, and Horizons.
Known for transforming concerts into immersive “demonstrations” complete with futuristic visuals and elaborate stage production, STARSET continues to evolve with every release. The band is currently touring behind its latest music, including the cinematic single “We Are The Dead,” while simultaneously preparing the next chapter of its ever-expanding universe.
We caught up with Bates aboard ShipRocked, where we discussed his engineering roots in Athens, Ohio, his love of hiking around the world, STARSET’s latest single “We Are The Dead” (originally written for the video game Arknights: Endfield), and what fans can expect from the band’s next era. Along the way, he shared stories about climbing Mount Fuji in a single day, writing Vessels in the mountains of Maine, and why ShipRocked remains one of his favorite events to play.
We actually have something in common—I work as an engineer too. I noticed you studied electrical engineering at Ohio University. My grandparents lived in Athens. Do you have any favorite memories from your time there?
The memories are a little hazy—it was definitely a fun time. Obviously, Stocker Center was a huge part of my life because of engineering, but Court Street was really the place to be. We played Halloween there a couple of times with my old band when we were just getting started. We played Palmer Fest, Mill Fest—pretty much every festival around town. Those were some really fun years.
Did you ever actually work as an engineer?
I did. I worked in research, and before I officially had my degree, I was doing work under engineering firms.
STARSET recently released “We Are The Dead.” What can fans expect from the song?
It’s a cinematic song that I originally wrote for the video game Arknights: Endfield. I wanted it to combine the sound from our latest album, Horizons, with elements from Vessels to give it more of that cinematic, video game feel.
It’s a longer song, and honestly we weren’t planning to release it. But the people behind the game asked if we would, and I thought it would be fun to give fans another song before the next album.
Speaking of that…you’re already working on another record?
I am. I’m really happy with it. I can’t say much yet—there are a lot of secrets—but everything is going to be new. It’s a whole new direction in every way.
What’s your perfect day at home in Columbus, Ohio?
It depends on the season, but I have some land outside the city, so I like spending time there. I’d probably write music for a couple of hours in my studio, hit the gym, hang out with my dogs, and eat way too many poke bowls. There’s a place called Hokey Pokey that’s on my DoorDash way more than it should be. It probably sounds boring, but that’s a perfect day for me.
Social media has been full of people looking back at 2016 lately. That was when you were creating Vessels. Do you have a favorite memory from making that album?
Most of 2016 was spent writing and recording that record in Maine, kind of in the middle of nowhere near Sugarloaf Mountain. Every day I’d go on these really long hikes along a river, hoping I wouldn’t run into a bear. Those hikes became part of my creative process, and honestly that was probably the most fun I’ve ever had making an album.
Has a destination ever inspired one of your songs?
I don’t know if a place has directly inspired a song, but I’ve definitely had ideas while traveling. Putting myself in different situations inspires songs. Hiking especially does. Driving does, too. There are mountains where I’ve had song ideas that I’ll always associate with those places.
You’re known for hiking whenever you’re on the road. Any favorite places?
I was just hiking around Santa Fe and Boulder recently, and I always enjoy being in El Paso. Whenever we have a day off, I usually try to find a trail nearby.
What’s one travel essential you always pack?
I’m actually a really light packer. I bring a little portable studio setup because that’s a necessity, but that’s about it. Someone else packs the stage outfits for me, thankfully. I once did an entire month-long European tour without bringing enough clothes. I just bought a couple of T-shirts from the support bands and made it work.
What’s one of your craziest travel stories?
We had a day off in Japan and decided to hike Mount Fuji. Ron and I climbed it way faster than we probably should have. We weren’t prepared for how cold it would be at the top—we were basically wearing T-shirts. Halfway up someone asked when we’d started, and when we told her she said we had to be lying because we’d climbed it so quickly. That beer afterward was probably the best beer I’ve ever had.
STARSET has played ShipRocked several times. What keeps bringing you back?
Honestly, it’s kind of a vacation for the band and crew—and we get paid. You really can’t beat that. The fans are incredible, too. They really are like a family. They’re so supportive, and it’s always great seeing the same faces year after year.
Looking Ahead
Although Bates remains tight-lipped about STARSET’s next chapter, it’s clear the band isn’t standing still. Between releasing cinematic standalone singles, continuing to evolve its immersive live production, and crafting an entirely new era of music, STARSET continues to push beyond the boundaries of modern rock.
Whether he’s climbing mountains around the globe, or dreaming up STARSET’s next futuristic concept, Dustin Bates approaches every project with the same curiosity that has made the band one of rock’s most unique acts. If his excitement is any indication, fans have plenty to look forward to when STARSET unveils what’s next.