He spent several years working in studios before committing himself to a music career in the late '90s. Influenced by the adventurous music and oblique lyrics of modern rockers R.E.M. and Tori Amos, he began collaborating with fellow New Yorkers Michael LaGennusa and saxophonist Norman Salant. His 1998 debut, Pictures of Dorian, was released to little fanfare, but his career picked up when he was added to the board of OutMusic, the National Association of Gay and Lesbian Music Professionals. Hannan spent the next two years tinkering with his follow-up album, 2001's Bridge to Atlantis, which received positive reviews but insufficient attention to extend his reach far beyond the New York City area. ~ Joseph McCombs