Kenneth Nixon of Framing Hanley discusses stronger influences on latest EP – Metal Insider
Framing Hanley has always had a knack for staying true to their roots and remaining humble, even as they’ve evolved over the years. The band’s latest single, “Mean It,” marks a significant shift in their sound, and I had the opportunity to sit down with the band’s lead vocalist, Kenneth Nixon, to discuss their new direction.
Nixon attributes the band’s evolution to the unique dynamic of the current lineup, which includes himself, Nic, and Stoye. Working on the new EP with Richard Wicander from Fire From The Gods brought a fresh perspective to their creative process. Nixon describes the experience as natural and collaborative, highlighting the band’s artistic chemistry.
The upcoming EP is set to be released first as a physical copy exclusively available on The Flowers Tour, with digital release following the tour. Nixon expresses excitement about returning to cities they haven’t played in for over a decade and looks forward to bringing their music to old and new fans alike.
Reflecting on the recording process, Nixon mentions revisiting older songs that he and Nic had worked on for a side project many years ago. The track “Sweet Tooth,” for example, had been in the works for eight years before finding its place on the EP. Working with Richard added a new dimension to their music, pushing the band to explore new sounds and styles.
When asked about the development of their sound and creative process, Nixon emphasizes the importance of artistic freedom. He believes that Framing Hanley should be defined by their creativity rather than conforming to a specific genre or style. The band’s goal is to experiment with different sounds while maintaining their unique identity.
Drawing inspiration from a variety of musical influences, Nixon mentions bands like Sleep Token, Bring Me The Horizon, and Architects as sources of creative energy. He also finds inspiration in artists outside the rock genre, such as Childish Gambino and Medium Build, whose diverse styles influence his songwriting.
Looking ahead, Nixon acknowledges the changes in their fan base over the years, noting that they have grown older along with the band. Despite the long hiatus, he is grateful for the continued support and looks forward to sharing their new music with their dedicated fans.
In closing, Nixon expresses his hope that listeners will appreciate the authenticity of the new EP and embrace the unexpected twists and turns in their music. He thanks fans for their ongoing support and looks forward to reconnecting with them at live shows. As Framing Hanley continues to evolve and explore new creative territories, their dedication to authenticity and artistic freedom remains steadfast.