A 22-year-old artist, Lani Hernandez-David, has found himself at the center of the meteoric rise of the metal band Sleep Token. Known for their viral hits and custom-designed masks, Sleep Token has captivated audiences while maintaining anonymity behind their unique masks.
Lani’s journey into mask-making began at a young age, inspired by his passion for cosplay. Working from a small studio in south London, he honed his craft through online tutorials and eventually caught the attention of Sleep Token’s drummer, leading to a collaboration that would change his life.
Initially skeptical of the band’s offer, Lani soon found himself creating masks for Sleep Token’s sold-out shows, including their memorable performance at Wembley in 2023. The experience left him in awe as he watched his creations take the stage, realizing the impact of his work on such a grand scale.
While Sleep Token’s masks for the Download Festival were crafted by another studio, Lani’s collaboration with the band opened doors to work with other musicians. Immersing himself in each artist’s music and persona, Lani draws inspiration to create unique designs that reflect the essence of the performers.
Music journalist Emma Wilkes highlights Sleep Token’s genre-bending sound, blending elements of metal, pop, R&B, and trap. Their rapid ascent to success since their 2023 album “Take Me Back to Eden” has garnered both acclaim and criticism, with some labeling their music as “metal for Disney adults.”
Despite the mixed reception, Sleep Token’s allure lies in their enigmatic personas and captivating performances. Lani, having become synonymous with band masks, sees the power of these visual elements in enhancing the overall experience for both artists and audiences.
Reflecting on his journey, Lani expresses gratitude for the opportunities that Sleep Token has provided him, fueling his passion for mask-making. While his dream client remains Slipknot, he embraces his current role as a sought-after mask creator, looking forward to a future filled with more creative endeavors.
As Sleep Token continues to inspire a new wave of masked bands in the music industry, Lani remains dedicated to his craft, eager to push boundaries and create innovative designs that leave a lasting impact on the music scene.
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