Artist: Alesana Album: On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax

Year: 2006
Duration: 51:53

A of the Album: On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax by Alesana

If you’re a fan of post-hardcore, metalcore, or screamo, chances are you’ve heard of Alesana. This North Carolina based band has been active since 2004 and they continue to stun audiences with their unique sound, blending elements of metal, hardcore, and even classical music. Today, we’re going to discuss one of their most popular albums, On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax. We’ll provide a brief history of the band, discuss the music genre of this album, the best songs of the album, the most innovative parts, and a of the album.
Alesana formed in 2004 when highschool friends Shawn Milke and Dennis Lee decided to create a band together. The band’s sound combines post-hardcore and metalcore genres with some elements of screamo and emo. With their raw energy and dynamic sound, the band quickly gained fans and released their debut album, “Try This with Your Eyes Closed” in 2005. On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax was released two years later in 2007, and remains one of their most popular albums to date.

On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax is a must-listen for any post-hardcore fan, the album contains elements of emo, screamo and even classical music. In this album, Alesana demonstrates their musical ability to create songs with intense breakdowns followed by slower, more orchestrated transitions. “The Third Temptation of Paris,” and “A Most Profound Quiet” leverages powerful instrumentals and meaningful lyrics that are sure to make listeners feel something deep within.
Another standout feature of this album is the common thread of mythology and metaphor throughout the lyrics. The album’s theme is based on a series of Greek myths as well as the Arthurian legend of the Holy Grail. Through this mythology and metaphors, Alesana explores concepts of love, betrayal, loss, and redemption. “And They Call This Tragedy,” and “Ambrosia” are themes through which they offer critical commentary on ancient mythology and legends, and explore the harsh realities of life.
One of the main reasons why On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax has been so critically received over the years is because of the album's innovative storytelling. Even though the album was highly influenced by Greek myths and Arthurian legends, Alesana took it upon themselves to add a modern-day twist to the stories of love triangle and betrayal, making the songs relatable to their listeners and pulling them into the album's storyline.
In terms of the most notable track on this album, there is no doubt that “Apology” stands out the most. The song has an incredible combination of powerful verses, emotional build-ups, and beautifully executed lyrics. The song, with its sorrowful melody and heartfelt lyrics, is arguably one of the band's best works.
But as a critic, the album is not without its flaws and weaknesses. Some of the songs sound repetitive, formulaic, predictable, and lack innovation in the genre. The album also has some lackluster moments that could be easily forgotten. That being said, the album is overall a masterpiece that deserves attention, and its one-of-a-kind sound serves as a testament to the band's talent and creativity.
Alesana's album, On Frail Wings of Vanity and Wax, is not just a post-hardcore album, but a piece of art that showcases the band's progress and growth. The band’s sound, combined with the themes of mythology, metaphor, and modern-day twist, resulted in a unique and thought-provoking album that stands the test of time. Although it may have some flaws, loyal Alesana fans and newcomers to the genre alike are sure to appreciate this masterpiece of post-hardcore music.