Stratus was an electric jazz/rock band based in Texas. Formed in the early 1980’s out of former projects of Dave Nichols (bass) and Brian Hull (drums), Ted Wenglinski (keys) joined the project in 82’. After a couple of 4th member line up changes, Ted brought in friend Paul Chester (guitar) in 83’ thereby completing the original Stratus line up. Although the 80’s were not an especially good period for so called “fusion”, Stratus never really fit that category squarely, having a solid rock foundation and avoiding the typical commercial, watered down feel the term “fusion” in the 80’s could connote. Stratus appeared more in line with earlier fusion masters Mahavishnu Orchestra, Return to Forever, Weather Report and the Tony William’s Lifetime as well as English and European progressive rock bands from the 70’s including the “Canterbury” scene. "Hyperbole" was the first CD recorded for release in 1990. Previous demos from the 1980's were eventually released on CD titled "Ice Nine". The band continued after "Hyperbole" with a new line up and eventually released "Iconoclast" and "Live at the Ale House".