HVNTED

Today we’d like to introduce you to HVNTED.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Hvnted was started by its founding members, Will Swanson and Declan O’Raidy. During their work with Stacy Jones (American Hifi, Miley Cyrus, Matchbox 20, and The Chainsmokers) Will and Declan discussed their experience in high school in which they felt that they were often targeted by people who are were looking to take out they’re stress on someone. Both reported that when they were in high school, they felt hunted. It was at that point, at swing house studio in Los Angeles, CA. That they came up with the name for their band – HVNTED.

After recording an EP with Stacy Jones, the band held auditions for a bass player and a drummer. The band played actively in and around Hollywood, CA. Including legendary venues such as The Troubadour and The Whisky. Stacy Jones returned to touring with Miley Cyrus and 5 Seconds to Summer. During that time Will Swanson, front man for HVNTED, approached Keith Nelson (Buckcherry) about getting a manager for the band. Will and Keith had been collaborating during the year prior on new music for HVNTED.

Keith Nelson reached out to Brian Schechter, former manager for My Chemical Romance and current manager for Palisades. Brian Schechter came to see the band play at Molly Malone’s, a 21+ venue in Hollywood, CA. Brian was blown away by what he saw on stage and jumped at the opportunity to represent a band that he said “would be huge.” Since that time, the band has gone through an evolutionary process and has now arrived with its current members: Will Swanson – Lead Singer/Guitar, Declan O’Raidy – Lead Guitar/Backup Vocals, Jack Cotter – Bass, Seamus Neal – Drums. The four members have become best friends. Keith Nelson and Brian Schechter currently serve as the bands managers. And Keith a Nelson has produced the bands second unreleased EP. HVNTED has just returned from a mini tour with Palisades.

Please tell us about your art.
HVNTED is comprised of a group of four friends who see the struggle and pain that we all endure. Will Swanson writes most of the music. He comes from a perspective of feeling things in a deeply personal level. His music is a way to express his pain and frustration and a way to let others know that they are not alone. He brings a message of hope in knowing that we’re all in this together.

Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
It’s a scary time that we’re living in. There’s tension between countries, shootings at schools, and you’re judged by the number of followers you possess. We hope that people who come out to see our shows can feel like they are a part of our family. As artists we hope that, for that hour to 90 minutes, we can bring everyone in the room together to connect through our mutual love of music.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
We would love if people would follow us on all social media platforms at @hvntedband. They can also visit us at HVNTED.com and see us play live. We love meeting our fans and appreciate when they approach us after our shows. - Voyage Phoenix