Bridging the gap between the visceral energy of ’70s blues-rock and the poetic intimacy of ’60s folk, Frank Hazel is a songwriter caught between two worlds.
The project is rooted in the duality of two European capitals: Rome and London. From Rome, he drew a sense of belonging and a fierce commitment to artistic integrity—inspired by the uncompromising path of legends like Rory Gallagher. From London, he absorbed the city’s restless multiculturalism, weaving a tapestry of diverse genres into a sound that is both nostalgic and urgent.
Frank Hazel’s musical DNA is deeply informed by the golden era of Progressive Rock. Influenced by the melodic genius of Steve Hackett and the visionary storytelling of Genesis, he infuses his compositions with an epic sense of dynamics and narrative structure. This symphonic approach to the guitar allows him to move beyond standard blues patterns, creating songs that breathe with the atmospheric complexity of the great ’70s concept albums.
The resulting landscape alternates between three distinct souls. There is the electric fire of the power trio, channeling the raw prowess of Jimi Hendrix and the heavy blues of Cream. There is the vulnerable storyteller, echoing the introspective mastery of Joni Mitchell and Neil Young. And finally, there is the progressive explorer, who uses the legacy of British prog to paint vast, emotional soundscapes.
In an era dominated by digital noise, the mission is simple: “Beyond the screens.” Through personal stories and sharp social observations, the music seeks to rebuild face-to-face connections and foster a return to authentic social interaction. It is an invitation to put down the phone and rediscover the community that exists in the physical space of a live performance.
Following the release of the evocative folk single, “Ways and Means,” Frank Hazel is now gearing up for the release of the high-octane electric track, “Like I Say.”
With “Ways and Means” out now, we took some time to hear from Frank Hazel. Read below to learn more about Frank Hazel, the story behind “Ways and Means,” and what’s to come.
Hi Frank Hazel! Let’s start with how did you get your artist name?
Hello, hello! “Frank” comes from my real name, Francesco. A dear uncle of mine used to call me Frank, or sometimes Francis. Additionally, I thought using “Frank” would be a great choice for a country like the UK, where the population is predominantly English-speaking. ”Hazel” comes from a street that I used to walk past called Fairhazel Gardens; for some reason, it just stuck with me. I also love hazelnuts! It took me a few days to decide, but when I think of someone called Frank Hazel, I expect to hear some Rock, Blues, and Country!
What city are you from, and where are you based now?
I am from the eternal city, Rome! I moved to London in 2019! I am still based here at the moment.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
I’ve decided to purse music pretty late by music industry standards—around age 20. My brother used to play the bass as a hobby, so I asked for a guitar when I was about 17. I was given a classical guitar, as there’s this strong belief that everyone must start with one, but I eventually got an electric guitar. A couple of months later, I met a guy and we started writing original tunes together. That was the beginning of my first band!
How has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound?
I started becoming more interested in music as a listener when I was 16 years old. My older brother brought me two CDs from Ireland: Permission to Land by The Darkness and Toxicity by System of a Down. Those albums truly changed my life. I still remember the day when I was doing air guitar jumping on the bed when my grandma came in. She was shocked! Later on, the time I spent at music college shaped my all-around taste in music, and I will always be grateful to two teachers I met and studied with there, Antonio and Giacomo. A dear friend of mine, Emanuele, also made an impact on me through his work ethic, his immense hunger for knowledge, and his talent.
Finally, the time spent in the countryside during my childhood summers has really stayed with me, as I was constantly surrounded by nature, animals, and the stars in the sky. I particularlyresonate with folk music, which is usually inspired by nature, so I guess that says a lot about human nature and how are connected to nature.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
My style is eclectic, but with a particular focus on melody. So far, I’ve released music—both with bands and as a solo artist—ranging from medieval-influenced psychedelic folk, prog rock, and metal to lo-fi instrumental tracks and, most recently, country folk!
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
I enjoy books, movies, and series, and sometimes I play video games! Red Dead Redemption II actually inspired the idea for one of my upcoming songs. Staying creative involves a process of resting and even being a bit bored sometimes. You never know when inspiration will knock at your door!
Who are some of your main musical influences?
There are too many to name, and it depends on when you ask! They are all on the same level; I feel like if I had to make a list, I would be totally unfair to them.
A massive influence—for his integrity, respect for music, and energy—is Rory Gallagher. Irish Tour ’74 is one of my favorite albums of all time. The fact that he decided to play in Northern Ireland even during the tensions between the IRA and the British Army says a lot about how great his spirit was.
Mark Knopfler is another important one. I would say “Telegraph Road” is like a movie in a song; his storytelling is incredible. Lately, I’ve been down a huge Hendrix rabbit hole, and Carl Verheyen has also made an impact on me with his versatility.
On the folk/country side, Neil Young is an important influence because of his lyrics and messages, as is Joni Mitchell. And again, Rory’s acoustic playing remains a major influence. I guess I’m drawn to artists who show great versatility, ranging from electric sounds to more acoustic and delicate textures. Prog Rock was a massive part of my life, but now I’m more into music that prioritizes the message and songs that are more immediate.
Who would be a dream to collaborate with?
I’m still a massive supporter of underground music, and London has some really great acts. There is a singer-songwriter from Kent called Holly Henderson; it would be incredible to write or play with her—she’s also an amazing guitarist!
Chris Stapleton has such a soulful voice, so he’s on my list too; I’d love to do something in the style of a classic Western soundtrack.
As for others, I would love to write folk in the style of Nick Drake or Joni Mitchell with Mikael Åkerfeldt from Opeth or Bruce Soord from The Pineapple Thief. Then, there’s Stevie Nicks circa 1974, Gary Moore…the list is too long!
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
In 2022, I worked on a prog rock album with a singer from Milan—who is now a very dear friend—and a friend and producer of mine from the Netherlands. On that album, there’s a solo on a track called “Different Kinds of Winter” that somehow remains one of my favorite guitar moments!
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?
Never take anything from granted, no one owns you anything and don’t be afraid of hard work. Be also careful of the people you start to work with because the music industry is lonely and really selfish. Keep close the people you feel you can trust because there aren’t really too many!
Now onto your release, “Ways and Means.” What inspired this song? What is “Ways and Means” about?
In recent years, we’ve seen a massive increase in hostility toward immigrants from both sides of the political spectrum. As a privileged immigrant myself, I felt I had to say something about it. I’m not a politician, and the only way I can send a message is through music—so that’s what I’ve tried to do. All the proceeds from Bandcamp are going to the British Red Cross, as I wanted to contribute in a more tangible way.
The lyrics of the song are from the perspective of an average man who decides to leave his home to escape the “9 to 5” life, and they explore all the challenges that come with such a major life decision.
What was the inspiration behind the cover artwork for “Ways and Means?”
The TV show, ‘1923,’ by Taylor Sheridan—both series are based in the US, except for a few parts of ‘1923.’ I don’t want to give any spoilers to readers who might not have seen the series yet! However, there was one event in particular that stuck with me, and I decided to base the artwork on it. I’ve done some researches on the internet about the late 1800s immigrants in the US and I found that photo.
The logo was designed by Juliana Kofler, a graphic designer based in London (who is also an excellent singer-songwriter!).
What was the creative process like when making “Ways and Means?”
It started in a very simple way. One night, I was on the couch playing my acoustic guitar, and the main riff just started to flow under my fingers. I recorded it on my phone, and the next day, I began working on the structure. Since I have a home studio, recording a demo was easy, as I’m quite used to recording both myself and others. I also spent some time writing the vocals, as this is the first time that I’ve been the lead singer on one of my own tunes—previously, I’ve always written songs with other vocalists.
How long did it take to complete “Ways and Means?”
I wrote, arranged, produced, mixed, and mastered the song myself. Including the guest recordings, the process took around three weeks. The harmonica player on the track is a friend of mine, Robin Stoker; he did such a great job, and his part in the middle is actually my favorite section of the song. For the piano, I brought in session player Liam Connery, who did an excellent and efficient job.
What is your favorite lyric in “Ways and Means” and why?
The two choruses…they remind me that everyone has a different idea of what it means to “make it,” both in a new beginning and in their everyday life.
What do you hope fans take away from “Ways and Means” and your music in general?
“Ways and Means” is my first attempt at being more political with my music, and I truly hope the song’s message spreads in a positive way. I hope my songs can have a positive impact on people, as music is one of the strongest forms of art for uniting people. When you think about concerts, that is where people gather and have a good time—the recent Oasis tour is a great example of that. However, we also shouldn’t forget independent artists who work hard every day.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
On the 13th of March, I’ll be releasing a new song called “Like I Say.” It’s a step away from the country-folk sound of “Ways and Means,” moving into more of a Rock-Blues vibe. I like to think of it as a jam between Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Buckley.
Currently, I have no gigs planned for this project. I’m busy with some session work and my role as a producer, but I’m keeping my ears open for any original projects that might need a guitarist!
Where can we follow you on social media?
Instagram is the only social media platform where I’m active, so you can follow me there and stay in touch to tell me what you think of the song! https://www.instagram.com/frank_hazel_music
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
