State Champs Members, Gear & Sound

State Champs is an American pop-punk band hailing from Albany, New York, known for their energetic sound and heartfelt lyrics. The group was formed in 2010 and consists of Derek DiScanio (vocals), Tyler Szalkowski (guitar), Ryan Scott Graham (bass), and Evan Ambrosio (drums). They have carved out a niche within the pop-punk genre by blending elements of punk, acoustic pop, and anthem emo, drawing inspiration from both the punk heroes of previous generations and the modern resurgence of guitar-driven music.

State Champs' sound is characterized by high-energy, melodic riffs and emotionally charged vocal delivery. Their music often features crisp, aggressive guitar tones, achieved with instruments like the Fender American Standard Telecaster HH and amplification from gear such as the Marshall JMP 2203 Mk II Master Lead 100w. Tyler Szalkowski's use of the Kemper Profiler Rack allows for a versatile range of tones, suitable for both the punchy, fast-paced sections and the more anthemic, soaring choruses. The dynamic bass lines and vigorous drumming by Graham and Ambrosio further intensify their sound, creating a robust, arena-ready experience that maintains punk’s raw authenticity while embracing pop sensibilities.