The band has a diverse mix of musical influences which has helped to form their unique sound characterized by harmony laden pop melodies and prolific guitar work with an energetic feel.
The band formed as teenagers when Mike met Nick and Jacob, who were already making music together.
Hangnail's punk-pop style combined rhythms from heavy metal and melodic punk rock with pop music flourishes.
According to Allmusic, this style was mixed with "praise-oriented lyrics to come up with a unique sound that rocks wildly with metal riffs and power chords.
According to Middleton, the band broadened its listening tastes to a wide variety of genres ranging from classical to rock and roll.