FOLLOW ERIK HANSEN VIA:
Washington state’s Erik Hansen is striking out on his own, leaving behind his band Fallen Angels for a solo adventure. His debut EP, “Seasons of the Wind,” is a five-song blast of pure rock energy, released on March 8th, 2024.
Hansen’s musical influences are clear from the start. The thrashy guitars he discovered as a kid, inspired by bands like Nirvana and The Offspring, are woven together with the classic sounds of 70s and 80s rock legends like AC/DC, Deep Purple, and Metallica. The result is an in-your-face rock experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
This isn’t just mindless headbanging, though. Hansen tackles a wide range of themes throughout the EP. Songs explore the vastness of space, the fear of illness, and the determination to keep pushing forward through life’s challenges. The lead single, “Send Me a Sign,” is a perfect example. This track, inspired by “all the petty BS a lot of people put us through in our day-to-day lives” (as Hansen puts it), is a middle finger to everyday annoyances. Fast-paced drums pummel the track while screaming guitars rage alongside Hansen’s vocals. The lyrics genuinely capture the feeling of frustration, especially the line “Send me a sign, this frustration’s getting out of line.” It’s an anthem for anyone who’s ever wanted to scream into the void.
While rock is the undeniable foundation of “Seasons of the Wind,” Hansen also incorporates surprising elements of folk and poetry. This unexpected mix creates a well-rounded and cohesive project that will appeal to a wide range of music lovers. The production quality is also top-notch. Hansen co-produced the EP with Pamela Moore (from Queensryche!), and the results are clear. The guitars are crisp and powerful, the drums are tight, and the vocals are raw and passionate. A lot of care went into making this EP sound great.
Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or simply looking for something fresh and exciting, “Seasons of the Wind” has something to offer.
