Dan Nichols & Eighteen's debut album, Life, was met with critical acclaim when it was released in 1996. Since then the band's music has been embraced by Jewish youth across the country at numerous live performances. Jewish youth and adults alike have been energized and moved by songs inspired by Jewish themes - from the hit "Always There" to "Babel", to songs influenced by the mandate of Tikkun Olam - including the standouts "Here and Now" and "What You Do With It".
The CD Be Strong, including songs such as "B'tzelem Elohim", "Chazak" and "L'takein (The Na Na Song)", was released in 2001 -- Introduced via the UAHC camp system, as well as highlight performances such as those at CAJE and NFTY Nationals, these songs have since become staples in the Jewish youth 'circle of songs'.
In 2002, the group unveiled its newest CD of original Shabbat songs called Kol HaShabbat -- Thanks to the response of songleaders and cantors alike, their Mi Chamocha, V'Shamru, Hinei Mah Tov and others have already become part of the liturgy across the nation. While e18hteen and Dan Nichols are constantly touring across America (and elsewhere around the globe), the band is beginning to write for its next recording project - stay tuned!!
Eighteen's musical compass is set by its founders, Dan Nichols and Mason Cooper, whose collective experience epitomizes the mixture of modern rock and Judaism that defines the band. Dan's involvement in Jewish music began when he served as head songleader at a Jewish summer camp. He has remained engaged in the Jewish musical world through his work as a cantorial soloist at congregations in Raleigh, NC and Nashville, TN. Dan has long had his hand on the pulse of modern rock music as well, fronting bands that have performed with Hootie and the Blowfish, Ben Folds Five, and others. Mason has written and produced hit television themes and film music, and has been involved in the careers of George Michael, Bernie Taupin, Stevie Wonder, and others.
In the words of Rav Cook, "To make the old new and the new holy." To make music that helps all people relate to life and to each other with more sincerity, depth and meaning.
