Sleep Token: The man behind Download headliners’ masks

In the world of music, bands often strive to maintain an air of mystery and intrigue around their identity. Sleep Token, a band known for their enigmatic personas concealed behind elaborate masks, has been the subject of much speculation and admiration among fans. Lani Hernandez-David, a talented mask maker based in south London, found himself immersed in the world of Sleep Token when he was approached to create custom masks for the band in 2023.

Lani’s passion for mask-making dates back to his childhood, when he first experimented with creating costumes at the age of 11. Over the years, he honed his craft by watching online tutorials and sharing his creations online. His expertise caught the attention of Sleep Token’s drummer, who reached out to him with an offer to collaborate. Initially skeptical, Lani soon realized the opportunity that lay before him and eagerly accepted the challenge.

Creating masks for a touring band was a new experience for Lani, but he embraced the task with enthusiasm. Collaborating closely with Sleep Token, Lani brought their artistic vision to life through his intricate designs. The culmination of his work was showcased at the band’s sold-out Wembley show in 2023, a moment that left Lani in awe as he witnessed his creations take center stage.

Despite his newfound success, Lani remains grounded and continues to refine his skills by immersing himself in the music and personas of his clients. Each project presents a new opportunity for creativity and growth, allowing Lani to push the boundaries of his craft. The impact of working with Sleep Token has left a lasting impression on Lani, inspiring him to strive for excellence in all his future endeavors.

Sleep Token’s rise to fame has been propelled by their unique sound, which blends elements of metal, pop, R&B, and trap music. This genre-bending approach has captivated audiences and led to their rapid ascent in the music industry. While their success has garnered praise, it has also attracted criticism from some quarters. Despite facing backlash from traditional rock music fans, Sleep Token remains undeterred in their pursuit of artistic expression.

The use of masks as a visual element has been a point of contention for some critics, who view it as a gimmick to gain attention. However, Lani believes that the masks are an integral part of Sleep Token’s identity and add to the allure of their music. The band’s influence has even inspired other masked bands to emerge, further solidifying their impact on the music scene.

Looking ahead, Lani dreams of working with iconic bands like Slipknot, whose masked personas have set a precedent for bands like Sleep Token. For now, he is content to be known as “the guy that does the band masks,” a title that he wears with pride. As he continues to push the boundaries of his craft, Lani remains committed to pursuing his passion for creating unique and captivating masks for bands that seek to leave a lasting impression on their audiences.