VINTAGE TERROR & VAPORWAVE VIBES: Nic Billington Unveils ‘Slasher’

In the neon-drenched landscape of modern pop, Nic Billington is carving out a niche that is as dark as it is infectious. His latest release, ‘Slasher’, serves as a cinematic homage to the eerie charm of 80s and 90s horror cult movies, specifically drawing inspiration from the American Horror Story anthology. But beneath the vintage terror and "Gaga-meets-Michael-Jackson" aesthetic lies a biting commentary on the modern age.

“In today’s world of social media and dating apps, a lot of us are constantly putting ourselves out there, seeking attention and validation. This track pokes fun at the whole pursuit of excitement from complete strangers – even though they could very well be a serial killer.”

‘Slasher’ explores the desperate human need for validation, even when that pursuit leads us into treacherous territory. "In today’s world of social media and dating apps, a lot of us are constantly putting ourselves out there, seeking attention," Billington notes. "This track pokes fun at the whole pursuit of excitement from complete strangers—even though they could very well be a serial killer."

It is this blend of contemporary anxiety and vintage pop-horror that defines Billington’s current creative era. He describes himself as a "creative, passionate, and ambitious" artist who is inherently drawn to the "darker things," a trait that is front and centre in his upcoming sophomore album, Dark Horse.

The journey to his new album, Dark Horse, has been one of emotional extremes. The record promises a sonic palette of 80s synths and hypnotic basslines, but the lyrical content dives much deeper. Fans can expect a journey through the "ebbs and flows of life," ranging from the paralyzing grip of imposter syndrome in "Without a Warning" and the grief of "Goodbye," to the euphoric highs of "You Get Me High" and the spiritual awakening of "Dopamine."

His influences are a masterclass in 80s iconography—Madonna, Depeche Mode, and Prince—blended with the distinctive, moody textures of modern icons like Billie Eilish, Labrinth, and The Weeknd.

Billington’s greatest strength is undoubtedly his multifaceted approach to his craft. Eschewing the traditional "pop star" model of delegating tasks, he is a self-taught architect of his own vision. From writing and recording his own vocals to directing, editing, and sometimes filming his own music videos, he maintains a singular control over his output.

However, this DIY ethos is, as he describes it, a "double-edged sword." His perfectionism often leads him to the verge of a meltdown. "I think my biggest weakness is not being able to let go or let others handle things," he admits. "Having said it out loud, it definitely sounds like I have trust issues."

"Music transcends all barriers... my style is a bit darker with an 80s edge. Think Gaga meets Michael Jackson."

Despite his current confidence, Billington’s path hasn't always been clear. He identifies fear and self-doubt as the most difficult obstacles he has ever faced. To overcome them, he utilized a simple yet profound exercise: listing his goals against his fears, eventually recognizing that his hurdles were merely "limiting beliefs from years of conditioning."

Now, with his head firmly "in the game," Billington is looking toward a global future. With a UK and US tour in his sights for 2024 and a decade-long vision of "immaculate music videos and successful albums," he remains focused on the power of the art itself rather than the accolades. "I don't care for awards," he says. "If they happen, at least I know my creations are resonating with people."

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