HAWKINS – SINGLE REVIEW AND INTERVIEW
The current pandemic has devastated the music industry. Covid-19 has had an annihilating effect on touring and live music venues but there are a few positives. With artists and bands having to hunker down there is a wealth of new material being released. The artists centered in the Northeast and in particular Connecticut have been extremely prolific. The next few posts will concentrate on a few of these bands, artists and musicians.
Hawkins is a relatively new band based in Ct. forming only a year ago. Hawkins is comprised of Hawkins French (Vocals), Joseph Frank (Guitar), Joshua Frank (Drums) and Ricky Frank (Bass). The band has amassed quite a few accolades in their short existence. Their praises run from the late Eddie Money, Noel E. Monk (former manager of the Sex Pistols and Van Halen) and Michael Caplan (Sony Music). They have performed at quite a few major venues including Mohegan Sun and the Bitter End. They also shared the stage with such illustrious act as Blues Traveler, Suzanne Vega and Living Colour at the Pleasantville New York Music Festival.
Hawkins has just released their first single, “Lights Off”. The song was produced by the band and mastered by multi Grammy winner Nathan Dantzier. It’s an upbeat pop anthem that blends soaring guitars, thunderous drums and melodic bass lines. “Lights Off'” features stunningly crisp hooks and catchy choruses. Quoting the band, “this track evokes the feeling of when relationships don’t have a clear direction and are solely based upon superficiality. This is our commentary on the common tug of war that can occur in tumultuous relationship[s that people in their youth experience.”
Even though “Lights Off” is about serious relationship issues, the whole feel is bouncy and vivacious. On the record, French’s vocals are sharp and full of vitality. His unique voice is captivating and lively. The brothers Frank are equally up to the task. Joseph’s guitar is energetic and full of interesting nuances. Joshua and Ricky’s back beat is powerful yet sophisticated. Their production on the song is top notch. Every note fits perfectly.
With “Lights Off’, Hawkins proves they can easily compete against international pop bands like The Elwins and the U.K. stalwarts The Wombats. Their sound is vibrant and distinct. Their whole ambiance is laid back and urbane with a tinge of mischief. There should only be big things ahead for Hawkins. They are moving in the right direction, UP.
Hawkins has graciously agreed to answer a few questions for AMP’s readers. Hope you enjoy.
AMP: Give AMP a brief history on the formation of the band.
HAWKINS: The band consists of front man Hawkins French, Joe Frank on guitar, Ricky Frank on bass and Josh Frank on drums. The brothers are longtime studio musicians and produced music at RVP Studios in Connecticut. One day Ricky overheard Hawkins having a vocal lesson. He was singing “Can’t You See” by the Marshall Tucker Band. Ricky, being outside the room, was immediately struck by Hawkins’ vocal performance and immediately began introducing him to the band. We ended up playing a few tunes and it sounded as if we had been performing together for years. After the first song was over we all looked at each other and instantly knew something special had just happened. We soon began writing songs and touring the Ct. music scene.
AMP: How was the recording process for “Lights Off” handled through the pandemic?
HAWKINS: We found it quite easy as our drummer, Joshua, is a sound engineer and he’s been very instrumental in orchestrating the recording and production process. When the pandemic began we relocated our gear from our studio to our house and set up a home studio. Actually, it became much more comfortable for us to create like this. We were able to take our time and go way more in depth when recording our music.
AMP: “Lights Off’ is a great pop song with dynamic hooks. Is this the direction of the band?
HAWKINS: It’s a first glance of the band. We’ve developed a unique blend of a Rock and Roll and Pop infused sound. It all compacts into a distinct tone that resonates with our listeners. Our debut track is really just the smallest glimpse into what’s to come. We will be covering a lot of ground with the upcoming singles ahead. Exploring many different avenues of our sound.
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AMP: What’s next for Hawkins?
HAWKINS: The fact is that our latest release has opened many doors for us. We are set to play some of Connecticut’s most premier concert venues including The Warehouse located in the Fairfield Theater in Fairfield, CT. We are also slated to perform at the esteemed Toyota Oakdale Theater in Wallingford, Ct. As of now, our band has received 65,000+ streams within the first 25 days of releasing “Light Off”. So we have been working hard to finalize our first E.P. which we will try to release either later this year or by early next year.
I would like the thank the band for their time and energy. Please give “Lights Off” a listen and catch them live whenever possible.
Hawkins next show will be Sept.11 at Crystal Bees in Southington, Ct.
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