Elara, as we know them today, reincarnated themselves in the year 1998. After years of instability, numerous personnel changes, and musical differences, elder members Jose Figueroa and Perry Safer assumed the reins of Elara. The two spent nearly eight months writing completely new material that would distance themselves from the work they had previously done two years earlier whilst establishing a new musical identity for themselves. The two agreed to commit the sound of Elara to a harder, electronic-based industrial sound, yet leaving the door open to experimentation. Once completed, the two decided to return to the stage, gradually adding keyboardist/vocalist Franko Carino, drummer Jack Rincga, guitarist Dan Mootz and bass guitarist Ken to the lineup. The four would add a wider array of influences to Elara's industrial core such as euro house, jazz, reggae, ska, punk, and metal.Over the years, Elara took on a militant look during their performances. Keyboard stands and loudspeakers found themselves covered in tank netting and large red banners, respectively. The bassist turned front man; Jose perfected his stage persona, combining his trademark vocal treatments and metal grinding with combative, in-your-face crowd interactions. Jack and Perry have done their share as well by adding timely pyrotechnics that shoot out like projectiles on stage. All of these elements have combined to turn Elara's concert performances into memorable events.In 2000, Elara's performances had not gone unnoticed, as they were invited to perform with acts such as Grand Theft Audio, Hate Department, Grim Faeries, and Gene Loves Jezebel. Their legendary performances elevated them to headliner status at several local venues. Fans also did not allow Elara to go unnoticed. In October 2000, fans voted Elara into the bill to perform at PlanetFest 2000, sharing the festival spotlight with Fuel, Nickelback and 8 Stops 7. The festival was presented by Jacksonville's Planet Radio 93.3, which would also feature Elara on several of their radio programs during 2000. On the heels of that performance, Elara received unexpected new media attention: Television. Elara was featured on WJXT's Good Morning Jacksonville, and then on Cruz Control, a Latin music video program on Black Entertainment Television (BET).In early 2001, Elara released their first full-length album Strength Through Technology on the artist-based label Movement FREQUENCIES to rave reviews. The album quickly sold out in local record stores across the city and ELARA found themselves opening up for such acts as DAS ICH, The Cruxshadows, Faith and Disease and Slick Idiot to name a few. But the rippling effects of the tragic last half of 2001 however continued to remold and shape the band. After a long bout of soul searching lead singer Jose Figueroa made a critical decision to join the armed forces.On February 4th 2003, Elara played their final live Performance opening for DAS ICH.This however did not mark the end for the ever evolving project as some believed. The band has become a studio-based project with plans on releasing new material and occasional live performances in the future. Elara has always been about change, turmoil, strife and overcoming ones fears and obstacles; these things strengthen, drive and fuel its creative force. Only time will tell what these aggressive eccentrics have in store for us.Thanks to Max for his support through the years.
Video for "burning".
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