Alesana Biography & Awards

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Artist Info

Formed

2004 Raleigh, NC

Members

Daniel Magnuson, Adam Ferguson, Steven Tomany, Shane Crump, Dennis Lee, Patrick Thompson, Jeremy Bryan, Shawn Milke, Jake Campbell

Biography

Beginning in Baltimore and solidifying its lineup in Raleigh, NC, Alesana formed in October 2004 around guitarist/vocalist Shawn Milke, guitarist Patrick Thompson, vocalist Dennis Lee, bassist Steven Tomany, and drummer Daniel Magnuson. Their blend of post-hardcore and metal with pop hooks and earnest lyrics quickly turned Alesana into a fixture in their hometown scene, and they became the first signing to local indie Tragic Hero Records, releasing their debut EP, Try This with Your Eyes Closed, in mid-June 2005. Through word of mouth and Internet promotions, the album sold well online and created a buzz among screamo fans. Beefing up their sound, Alesana eventually added new drummer Jeremy Bryan and third guitarist/vocalist Adam Ferguson in time for their first U.S. tour, even playing a spot at the Cornerstone Festival. The album On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax appeared in summer 2006, and all of this activity ultimately led to a deal with California's Fearless Records by the year's end. The label then reissued On Frail Wings with new artwork and bonus features in March 2007. ~ Corey Apar, All Music Guide