Brief History

Aerial View began in 1993 when songwriters Aaron MacMillan, Dwayne Stearns, and drummer Jerry Ward reorganized the band "Oracle" with bassist Radu Filip. The style of music in early Aerial View retained the metal edge from the Oracle era and leaned toward a sound described by one writer as "Arena Rock". Eventually, drummer Jerry Ward left the band to pursue other musical interests and Rob Santello joined the band. Toward the final stages of recording their debut album, Dwayne Stearns left the band to pursue a calling to the ministry in Sonora, California. In 2002, Aerial View added guitarist Steve Wilburn to replace Dwayne and finish the work on the cd. Veteran producer and engineer Ralph Stover (The 77's) was brought in to mix and master the cd. Steve left the band in early 2007 and the search was on to find a replacement. In Februrary 2008, we brought lead guitarist Jeff Askew into the band to complete the current lineup. Aerial View continues to write new material with a hard rock and progressive edge that reflects the various influences and styles of the band members.

The Sound

Aerial View's sound is difficult to categorize because the songs have a different feel, depending on the instrumentation. Some of the material fits neatly into the "Hard Rock" category, but other songs have a progressive twist or an acoustic "alternative rock" groove. The band's sound is cohesive and unique, featuring strong vocals, lead guitars, and a solid rhythm section. Aerial View has drawn comparisons to bands like Queensryche, Rush, and Dream Theater. Each member adds a wealth of experience and talent to the overall mix.

Experience

Aerial View has played a variety of venues, ranging from churches to nightclubs. The band has appeared at the California State Fair, Waterworld USA, Marysville Memorial Auditorium, Placer County Fairgrounds, the Roadhouse, the Boardwalk, the Underground, Powerhouse Pub, The Hangout, and a number of churches throughout Northern California. Aerial View has also been featured on Roseville Channel 8's "Friday Night Live" series. Regardless of the venue, the message remains the band's priority. Aerial View stays on focus with the mission of furthering the kingdom of God through quality, professional music.

Mission Statement

Aerial View's exists to serve and glorify God with our talents.  We are a professional, original, established band with a solid reputation for playing high quality original music.  Our music reflects the life experiences and influences of each of the band's members.  We are unique - any resemblance to bands living or dead  is purely accidental.  Although we are each involved in our church worship ministries, Aerial View is NOT a worship band.  Our sound is original and energetic and our lyrics reflect the power of a loving God to change lives.  Come and join us at our next show and see what we're all about!

Aerial View wants to focus on playing Christian oriented venues and events including outreach concerts, coffeehouses, and ministry oriented nightclubs. However, with a wealth of professional performance and recording experience, the band is primed and ready for all types of events- large and small audiences, venues of various sizes. Aerial View is ready to serve God, and will follow His leading through whatever doors He chooses to open.