Nixer - Freedom
Words: Eerie Rose Single Artwork: Lorcan Rush Press Shot: Katharina Johanson
Nixer is a project that has never been apolitical (or quiet by any means) about issues that are close to the heart of lyricist Seán Keenan, however this new single is the first time that politics have taken centre stage in such a direct way. ‘Freedom’ is an unflinching political statement addressing the genocide in Palestine, expressing a genuine plead for peace in the Middle East. Written in January 2026, it comes after years spent advocating for the cause at live shows, playing fundraisers for Palestine and utilising any and all stages to talk about the ongoing violence. It feels like a necessary step, to include this feeling in the artwork itself; making work during such terrible times can be difficult, but perhaps turning our hand to using our work as a vessel for our rage and an outlet for our desire for change is at least a way to keep going.
Written and co-produced by Seán Keenan and Colin Moir in their Southeast London studio, ‘Freedom’ is the first official release from this partnership, and sees the Nixer sound get slower, darker and more abrasive, whilst still maintaining the taste of the project’s original synth-punk energy. There’s a confidence to the track, a steady power that feels like finding your voice and knowing how to use it. It raises exciting questions about Nixer’s future, a soundscape that is constantly shaped and adapted by the different collaborators Keenan works with over time.
Describing the track, lyricist Seán Keenan states:
“It's different. I'm finding my voice and speaking on it politically. It's my favourite song I've written.. Yet. It’s also the slowest Nixer track ever and our first track under 100BPM.”
“We played it live in Berlin the week after it was finished, it caused a stir amongst the crowd but it was also played on Refuge Worldwide by 2 different DJs since then… you can’t please everyone and you shouldn’t. I think I’m really starting to realise that now about my songwriting and it’s extremely liberating. I’ve never felt more conscious about my lyricism, but I’m very glad I stuck with what feels right in my heart.. Free Palestine!”
Colin Moir, who produced Freedom with Nixer wrote:
“Freedom’ is the result of one of those elusive moments when an idea just clicks and quickly blooms on its own into something exemplary. As a producer, I was keen to capture the raw, unapologetic energy of Nixer’s live shows in the studio and continue to honour Nixer’s dedication to speaking truth to power in both lyrics and music. What started as a lean march of thudding drums and synth bass in lockstep, eventually grew wings into a song of protest and introspection, a collaborative effort we’re both very proud of.”
‘Freedom’ is out now and available on all streaming services. At 5.18 we heavily encourage you to listen on Soundcloud, Bandcamp or any platforms that are not spotify. All Bandcamp proceeds will be donated to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, a charity supplying medical aid, treatment, food, water, and necessities to all affected families in Gaza.
Forthcoming live dates you can catch Nixer at:
Press shot credit: Katharina Johanson “Nixer in Berlin”