Alesana

Alesana is an American post-hardcore band from Raleigh, North Carolina. The group was formed in the autumn of 2004 by Shawn Milke, Dennis Lee, Patrick Thompson, Steven Tomany and Daniel Magnuson. It is currently signed to Revival Recordings and Artery Recordings. The band has released five full-length studio albums and three EPs. The band first gained underground attention following the release of its debut EP, "Try This With Your Eyes Closed", and early demos that circulated on the compilation "All the Tragedy Money Can Buy". Its early sound combined elements of pop, punk, metal and classic rock influences. The name Alesana is derived from Aliceanna Street in Baltimore, where Milke and Thompson previously lived. Milke and Thompson initially worked together in Baltimore in separate bands before relocating to Raleigh to continue developing the project. Dennis Lee joined after being invited by Milke, and the early lineup was completed with the addition of Steven Tomany and Daniel Magnuson. The group's first rehearsal took place in a car wash. Magnuson was later replaced by Will Anderson, who was subsequently replaced by Jeremy Bryan. The band signed to Tragic Hero Records in 2005 and later to Fearless Records. Alesana's debut full-length album, "On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax", was recorded in 2006 and released in 2007 following a reissue through Fearless Records. The album is a concept work influenced by Greek mythology and includes contributions from Milke's sister, Melissa Milke, on female vocals. It was supported by touring in the United States and appearances at festivals including Warped Tour.