Black Hand is a rock n roll band from Hammond, IN, formed by former members and brothers James Nicksic (Rhythm Guitar) and Frank Balitewicz (Bass Guitar) in 2015 after James had returned home from a hitchhiking trip to the West Coast.
The brothers along with drummer Zach Narug wanting to build on what they were developing tagged Nic Blackstone (Lead Guitar) and cousin Robert Nicksic (Vocals) to round the the 5 piece as they started recording demos or original songs.
After playing for about a year former member *James and Robert would meet Troy Charbennau (Drums & Percussion) and after one try-out/practice with Troy on drums it was felt by the band that Troy would replace Zack as the drummer of Black Hand with each member Troy, *Frank, Nic, *James, and Robert fitting like finger on a Hand….
In June 2018 Black Hand began recording their debut album “Second Helpings” which was released on November 1st, 2019. Due to the high amounts of piano & keyboard parts that they included on “Second Helpings” Matt Pruim (Keyboards) was recruited to be the 6th finger of Black Hand.
Black Hand is a band that transcends any genre or category, from video ready songs like “Let it Roll” to blues heavy guitar riffs and Roberts baritone smoothness on “Loving You…” to Motown inspired grooves of :Funk You Up” Black demonstrates they will not be pigeonholed into today’s multitude of crippling genre labels. The group is based in raw untamed emotion and unbridled energy and talent. From ballads to Fist Pumping rock, to Live Jam Band performances is what defines Black Hand.
Though Robert is the key lyrists, song creation truly is an entire band process with contributions from all, ending with songs that are cutting edge foot tapping head banging modern rock.
In late 2019, Black Hand returned to the studio to start work on their Sophomore album to be released late 2020. Whatever they may have in the works, there is one thing that is certain. Black Hand will undoubtedly leave you awed and wanting more.
In 2020 James and Frank would depart from Black Hand leaving a void that would quickly be filled by Mac Larso (Bass Guitar) and Ty Hesterman (Rhythm Guitar) in May 2020.
Black Hand has been in the studio since January working on their debut album with this line up. Look for it by end of 2021