Nick Kivlen Releases Debut Solo Album, Discusses Artistic Freedom with Photographer Driely S.

On July 7, Nick Kivlen, a founding member of Sunflower Bean, independently releases his debut solo album, 'Addicted to the Sunset.' The album, which he wrote, recorded, and produced in his Los Angeles living room, draws inspiration from a road trip along the California coast. In a discussion moderated by editor Jane Lewis with photographer Driely S., Kivlen speaks about resisting commercial pressures and valuing imperfection. Driely S., recognized for her analog photography and portraits of figures like Beyoncé and Jim Jarmusch, contributed to Sunflower Bean's 2022 album cover 'Headful of Sugar' and has a photo booth series. Her work will feature in the Autophoto museum's 'On The Record' exhibition opening this Friday in New York. Kivlen's album reflects his journey from New York to LA and celebrates human flaws, influenced by recording styles from the 1960s and 70s. The conversation also explores David Hockney's Polaroids, Arthur Russell, and the significance of creating outside traditional industry frameworks.