Stephan Erickson, born in Dallas,TX. raised by his adopted Grandparents Rudy & Francis Stice, Stephan has carried inside him a great love for music apparent from a very early age.

Stephan was always found listening and emulating Artist's of the times such as Elvis, The Beatles, The Door's, that carried through the years influenced still by other Artist such as David Bowie, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Jethro Tull, Elton John, Aerosmith, Yes, Kansas, Deep Purple, Heart, Tesla, Journey, Rush, The Pat Travers Band, Tori Amos, Dave Mathews, just to name a few. ...

Music has always been a part of Stephan's life. Stephan's collective experience has spanned over twenty eight years. He has played with and has been exposed to many talented Musicians, such as the members of Dream Theater, Queensryche, Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, REO Speedwagon, Iron Maiden, Robin Trower, Ken Mary from "House of Lords", Randy Hansen, Howard Lees and Michael Derosure from "Heart", Deen Castronovo from "Bad English" who also played with "Ozzy Osbourne" and is truly one of Niel Schon's favorite Drummer's, Kelly Grey the producer of "Candlebox" and one of the Guitarist for Queensryche, Mark St. John (Norton - RIP) from "Kiss", Stryper and many others.

"My musical influences have all been bands that are progressive with strong vocals". Stephan has never lost site on the importance of the voice, lyrical content as his instrumental prowess developed. "We are telling a story, much like a reporter witnesses an event". We are life's witnesses. The stories we tell I hope reflects some form of enlightenment that might help someone reach a goal, overcome a trial or help enhance a love. We want Our Fans to know that they're not alone. There is someone who is watching, listening, who cares enough to expose the truth of this life for what it really is. Through the music of Arimathea; our desire is to share with everyone, that in the mist of all the craziness that surrounds us, there is a Hope and Promise that is real that can change a life forever for those who seek it". (Stephan Erickson - 1997)

Stephan has seen the world from many different stages. Stephan was the Lead Vocalist (Front Man), for the bands; "Texas Diamond" aka The Joe City Band (based out of Denton, TX), "Xanthus" (based out of Portland, OR), "Eden" aka Sojern - last to be known as band "Shout" (John Elefante from "Kansas" former band - based out of Costa Mesa, CA), "Myth" formally Geoff Tate's band from Queensryche, based out of Seattle, WA, and the world renowned "Dream Theater", based out of Long Is. NY.

Stephan brings to the World, through the music of "ARIMATHEA"" a unique style of writing and music that has evolved over the last 20 years. Being exposed at a young age to Blue Grass, Folk Music, Rock, Jazz, Fusion with progressive formats, once again exposed to various Artists such as; Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Berle Ives, "The Kinston Trio", "The Carpenter's", Janis Joplin. Stephan has taken old school timeless music expressions, inner mixed with his more direct influences that has created a sound of music that is original, mysterious, with intelligent lyrical depth. The music is progressive, melodic, lead with a strong vocal style that is signature. ..."I have always believed that the mood of the music, the rhythms of our lives, our voices; this is music's heart and soul. It is a part of us. It is who we are. It is the one thing in this life we truly share with each other. If one can center themselves in the stillness of Gods creativity through total surrender, God takes us to the heart of music that when shared people are moved. Passion is the Key". (Stephan Erickson - 1998)

From the place of his birth, Dallas, TX, Stephan's travels, experiences have introduced him to various cultures and many different ways of viewing life. From a Nomadic upbringing, Stephan has learned the art of survival. His lyrics reflect a deep spiritual understanding that seems to almost be speaking in parables. ..."The world test's us in many ways. Growing up in such a dysfunctional up brining, forced me to depend on a Higher Authority. No matter what I've been through, there has always been God. God has taught me to love and freedom of forgiveness. Through music, God has blessed me with a gift that has brought healing and has always soothed my soul." (Stephan Erickson - 2012)

"We look forward to hearing from you. We will see you all soon. "Remember, music can change the world by bringing us closer together." (Stephan Erickson - 2016)