Strata got their start in suburban San Jose around 2000. Then called Downside, the quartet -- vocalist Eric Victorino, guitarist Ryan Hernandez, bassist Hrag Chanchanian, and drummer Adrian Robinson -- started playing out frequently, and by 2001 had self-released an LP. An Internet release followed. Tours with homeboys like Alien Ant Farm and Dredg raised Strata's stock, and though numerous labels showed interest in their post-grunge grooves (similar to types like Trapt or even Hoobastank), the band eventually signed with mondo successful startup Wind-Up. Their largely self-produced, eponymously titled debut appeared in July 2004. - Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide
