Altered State was an American progressive rock band based in Huntington Beach, California.

Altered State was formed in 1990 in Huntington Beach, California by vocalist/guitarist Gregory Markel, drummer Chip Moreland and guitarist Curtis Mathewson, previously performing together in the band Show of Hands.

In 1990, Altered State signed with Warner Bros. Records 1991 the band released their eponymous debut album and the first single, Step Into My Groove.

It was the most requested song on KQLZ Pirate Radio, the station set up a special show for the band at The Roxy in Hollywood, California.

[3] Gregory Markel's performance that night is highlighted in Vicki Hamilton's book Appetite for Dysfunction: A Cautionary Tale.