Stepa is a six-piece alternative metal band from Newbury Park, California. Originally calling themselves Phlip, the band signed with Interscope in 2001. A year later, singer Blake Beckman, drummer Mark Thorley, guitarists Brendon Oates and Shane, bassist Jessie Krapff, and DJ/keyboardist Chaz Kindschi, parted ways with the label as they put the finishing touches on their debut album. Shortly after, they were picked up by Locomotive Music and embarked on a U.S. tour with new labelmates Medication. In June, 2002, they released their first single, "Aquarium," followed by their self-titled debut album a month later. ~ Don Kline