The Curst Capsule

Artist Spotlight: Interviewing Shawn Milke of Alesana

Artist Spotlight: Interviewing Shawn Milke of Alesana

Join us in welcoming Shawn Milke of Alesana to the blog for our next Artist Spotlight! Follow along as we talk to Shawn Q&A style about the current tour, cosmetic faves, and what's next!

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1. When did Alesana come together? Where are you based?

We officially formed the band in Raleigh, NC in October of 2004. However, Patrick and I (Shawn) have roots and planted seeds for the project in Baltimore in 2002.
 

2. Where does the band draw inspiration from in creative endeavors? Music or otherwise.

We draw our largest inspirations from each other. We all have differing and eclectic backgrounds in music and do our best to allow those inspirations to flow and infiltrate our process.  
 

3. The trilogy tour is in full swing! What is most exciting to you about this tour?

Being on the road with each other and the close friends we have made in the other bands on the road with us (LIMBS, Eyes Set To Kill, Vampires Everywhere, alltheprettythings, and Half Heard Voices). It is like returning to Summer Camp.
 
 

4. What is a favorite song to play live?

For our current tour, which is us playing the entirety of Confessions, I love playing Catharsis. That ending is incredibly worth the wait. 
 
 

5. Eyeliner preference: pencil/gel, liquid, or neither?

For stage, I tend to use eyeshadow as eyeliner, if that makes sense. I like subtlety and I guess a more "accidental" look than a crisp and clean eyeliner drag.  But if/when I do use eyeliner (photo shoots, video shoots) I prefer pencil.
 

6. Lip preference: lipstick, liquid lip, or neither?

I do not use lipstick. But never say never, I suppose. Let's go with liquid lip because that just sounds more fun. 
 

7. Do you have a favorite album era in the band? In relation to the contents of the album itself, the period of your life, etc.

The Emptiness was a game changer for us, an album that defined everything we were trying to accomplish as artists and songwriters. Its success also opened doors and paved the way for us to explore all new territories with our music from that point forward. 
 
 

8. What beverages and snacks are on your tour rider must-haves?

These days for me I'd have to say White Claw, Coconut Water, and Doritos. Also, Blasters. If you know, you know. 
 

9. Who is an underrated artist/band you think deserves more love?

Astronoid. I do not have enough words to say how amazing that band is and if you have never checked them out, go and do it right now.  
 

10. What can fans expect to see next from you + Alesana?

A never-ending legacy of love, rock & roll, and PMA. 
 
 
Website/Merch: alesana.store
Instagram: Alesana | Shawn Milke
Tiktok: Alesana
Youtube: Alesana
 
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Make sure to check out Alesana on their current run, the Trilogy Tour III and prepare with the album they'll be playing in full, Confessions (below)!
 
Thanks for being here and catching up with Shawn of Alesana. Drop any questions or comments you might have. Til next time!
 
XOXO, Curst 🖤
  
 
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2 comments

ALESANA X CURST?!?!?!?!?!

ladybell

I loved this interview. I cannot express how this band helped me through high school and seeing them still tour is just absolutely amazing!! Thanks Curst for this interview!

jess

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