Alesana is an ambitious rock band. The group, based in Raleigh, N.C., recently released its fourth album "A Place Where The Sun Is Silent." It is a concept album inspired by "Inferno," the first part of Dante Alighieri's "Divine Comedy." They follow the main character's descent into hell in a melodic, hard rock style that incorporates elements of heavy metal and much more.

It is divided into two sections – "Act One: The Gate" and "Act Two: The Immortal Sill." The album is 62 minutes long, requiring some commitment on the part of the listener to take it all in.

The presence of horns on the second track, "A Forbidden Dance," makes it clear Alesana is adventurous musically as well as lyrically.

"Hand In Hand With The Damned" has falsetto vocals and a full choir. Lead singer Dennis Lee describes a descent into darkness. "I'm trapped, drowning in despair I'm poisonous/ I slammed the door and locked it shut."

"Lullaby Of The Crucified" brings in strings and other orchestral instruments.

The lyrics of the first track in "Act Two" are either in Italian or Latin.

The next, "Labyrinth," describes some evil spirituality. "Every time I try I'm further from the sky/ I wish that I could let you go, I'm lost in your beautiful trance."

"The Fiend" describes a demonic scene. "Blind are leading the blind into a disaster/ I'm the only one who seems to care/ If you decide to worship the chaos/ I will not wait and watch as you burn."

On a visual level the album is intriguing as well. The cover depicts a castle, tunnel, windmill and mysterious young woman in flowing white robes. This theme is continued through the inner sleeve, which has artwork with lyrics for each song.

Lee and guitarist/vocalist Shawn Milke even penned a story to accompany the music, which is included.

Alesana deserves much credit for their artistic, intellectual approach to creating an album.