Hawk Nelson Has More Fun

Even before Hawk Nelson was signed to Tooth and Nail Records over a year ago, the band knew where they were headed. The four friends had a common bond in their love for catchy power-pop ballads and rock n’ roll anthems that led them to start their band, but it was their passion for quality music with a message that drove them. Before any record contract, the guys played throughout their native-Canada, building a grassroots following and loyal fan-base.

After dozens of self-promoted shows and concerts at rented out venues around Ontario, the band had created a buzz over their catchy tunes and intense live shows. The local exposure grabbed the attention of fellow Canadian rocker Trevor McNevan , a friend of the band since their youth group days. McNevan is the lead singer for the band FM Static and Thousand Foot Crutch who had just landed a mega-hit single with their song “Rawk Fist.” Having been on the Tooth and Nail label with two different bands, McNevan was able to help Hawk Nelson land a deal of their own.

The band enlisted the help of production veteran Aaron Sprinkle to produce the Tooth and Nail debut. Sprinkle, who has worked with artists like MxPx, Pedro the Lion and Squad Five-0, helped the foursome refine their sound and create the combination of blistering guitars, driving beats and sun-soaked melodies that can be heard on Letters to the President.

Though the intensity of the power-pop fueled songs on Letters… may sound reminiscent to other popular punk rock acts, the message of Hawk Nelson’s music stands out from the rest. Their youth-inspired anthems promote themes of hope, love and even political awareness without relying on angst and rebellion for the solution to life’s problems. The album has become a major success for the band, garnering critical praise, heavy radio play and a growing number of devoted fans.

Even though Hawk Nelson is experiencing some of the spoils of their new found fame, they haven’t abandoned their dedication to hard work. Fans can still experience the same intensely fashioned, fist-pumping live concert that shows how Hawk Nelson made it to where they are today.

By Jesse Carey