Formed by Chris Petersen and Josh Krohn, originally under the name "Apostate" in 2002. Cellador was formed in the summer of 2004 by guitarist Chris Petersen, Cellador is a melodic metal band from Omaha, NE, whose members ages range from a mere 17 to 23 years old. Cellador was founded with the intent of introducing aggressive European influenced melodic speed/power metal to the Midwest USA, where the style is relatively nonexistent. Cellador spent the fall and winter months of 2004 writing, rehearsing and, by March 2005, began playing live. By May of 2005 Cellador had released the demo Leaving All Behind. Impressed by their skill and musicianship, Brian Slagel offered the band a contract making them Metal Blade Records first USA based power metal signings in years.