Kenny Hickey Shares the 5 Formative Albums That Inspired His Teenage Years

The Type O Negative and Silvertomb guitarist reflects on his musical origins ahead of Silvertomb's upcoming release.

Vocalist and guitarist Kenny Hickey, widely recognized for his two decades with Type O Negative as well as his work in Silvertomb, has taken a look back at the records that shaped his youth. Born on May 22, 1966, Hickey spent his teenage years spanning from 1979 through 1985—an influential era for heavy metal and classic rock when aspiring musicians spent endless hours learning riffs at the turntable.

During his formative years, Hickey was captivated by both the developing traditional heavy metal movement and wide-ranging 1970s rock, even citing visual details like a pianist's platform boots on an album cover as early points of fascination.

Silvertomb Returns With New Album

Following his extensive history with Type O Negative, Hickey is preparing for the release of The Interpretations of Nightmares, the full-length record from Silvertomb. Arriving via Steamhammer on Nov. 13, the project marks the band's first studio release since their 2019 debut album, Edge of Existence.

Addressing the extended period between releases, Hickey explained the setbacks the group faced between 2020 and 2024.

“Just as things were really beginning to take off for Silvertomb, our hands were suddenly tied for a number of years due to the pandemic and its long-lasting aftermath. On top of that, I had a drinking problem that urgently needed sorting out,” Hickey said.

Album Details & Band Lineup

Having overcome those personal challenges, Hickey has re-partnered with a stacked lineup of veteran musicians. The project features prominent single visual tracks such as "No Way to Live," featuring dynamic leaden riffs spanning sludge, doom, and traditional metal elements combined with visceral vocal deliveries.