Denali

When their self-titled debut appeared in 2002, Denali seemed to come out of nowhere, emerging with an incongruously loud bang for a band with such atmospheric control and melodic nuance. Record labels from major to minor-league were buzzing about their first rough recordings. In reality, the members of Denali are no new-comers: bassist/keyboardist Keely Davis and drummer Jonathan Fuller are half of Engine Down, guitarist Cam DiNunzio had been touring with bands for roughly ten years in a slew of seminal east coast indie and hardcore bands. But it’s the classically trained Maura Davis who ultimately defines the band with her unmistakable voice.

After eschewing major label temptation to sign with Jade Tree, Denali released their self-titled debut record, and immediately won over not only indie audiences, but also the curiosity of people outside the illusive "scene," those who recognized something salient and unique in the band’s music.