Hinder lets fans name latest album

When the multi-platinum Oklahoma rock band Hinder went to name its latest album, band members turned to their fans for a name.

The submitted tag that best described Hinder's present situation, as well as a great record name, ended up being "When the Smoke Clears." It was released May 12.

This is the fifth full-length release for Hinder. It's also featuring Marshal Dutton as the new vocalist, and that is giving the band both new energy as well as a rejuvenated vibe. Not only that, but Dutton is also a well-rounded musician who is just as great on stage as he is behind the mixing board.

Hinder is scheduled to perform at 7 p.m. Sunday at Jake's Sports Café and Backroom, 5025 50th St.

"As far as what he brings to the table, he's one of the most talented musicians I've seen in my life," Hinder co-founder and drummer Cody Hanson said. "I've worked with him a long time producing music and writing, and he has an insane knowledge of music. He's one of the best guitar players I've ever seen in my life and he's one of the best piano players I've ever seen in my life. He makes us a better band every day."

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His skills in songwriting and producing will also help Hinder's ability to crank out more hits.

"I mean Marshal and I have co-produced the last three records together," said Hanson. "The songwriting ... the more you do it, the better at it you are going to get. You are only going to get better at it and I feel like our best days are ahead of us. Having him around, it makes the process so much faster. And I feel like we are going to be able to put more music out faster."

Hinder added Dutton to the roster after the band and its former frontman and co-founder Austin Winkler parted ways. After a time with Nolan Neal, Hinder decided to put Dutton front and center.

Besides being a talented musician, Dutton also has a genuine desire to interact with fans, which is something Hinder is working to increase.

To help generate a new way of communicating with fans, Hinder started a PledgeMusic campaign and ramped up its social media with the contest to name the album.

"We were trying to find creative ways to hang out and get to know people and connect with our fans," said Hanson. "Now it's more important than ever."

Are there any interesting stories coming from the road now that Dutton is in the mix?

"I don't know if there's anything super interesting, but it's been fun going out on the road," Hanson said. "Anytime you are doing shows and doing tours before the album drops, you go back and do the smaller venues. It's been fun and been fun to watch Marshal out on his first tour as a lead singer. It's been a lot of fun watching him connect with the fans and the fans connecting with him."

As for what fans should expect from the band's upcoming performance, Hanson said to expect a happier Hinder.

"I don't know man. Just a lot of fun," he said. "We are having fun again and I think when people come to see a show, they want to have a good time, too. It's not just a bunch of guys on stage being depressed and hating life. We are going to have fun and make a party of it and hopefully everybody will show up and get excited."