Holdfast - Sixtytwo

Holdfast

Sixtytwo
self-released; 2015

3.4 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The five-piece band Holdfast comprised of Cody Haigis (vocals),Tim Truffer (guitar), Stephen Burgess (guitar), Kevin Smith (bass) and Michael Hart (Drums) recently released their debut EP entitled Sixtytwo. Sixtytwo has a contemporary pop/rock vibe that mixes genres but is also completely accessible by a large demographic. The songs are indicative of the current climate of music that you hear on popular radio stations. Haigis’ vocal style and delivery is certainly one you should recognize while the music blends popular genres such as pop punk and post-rock. 

I have to give credit where it’s due. The band self-produced the album and the results are mighty impressive. Although the band used a limited setup of tools the results are worthy of something you would hear from a top-notch studio. The songs are fast, energetic and anthemic. Throughout the duration of Sixtytwo there isn’t much time to breathe. The band finds a wavelength and energy and sticks with it. 

The first song entitled “Aurora 7” doesn’t take long to get going before the whole band is rocking out. You are treated to soaring reverb-laced guitars, hard- hitting drums and a steady bass. The advanced technical ability of the drummer and guitarist are immediately apparent. At times the band gets pretty heavy and goes into metal territory such as when they palm mute the guitars and someone in the band goes full on with a demon like growl. 

“Telstar 1” has a similar energy but feels more like a teenage pop punk song while “Friendship 6” is an anthemic tune that has a great guitar solo around the three-minute mark. The band closes with “Mariner 2” which had a good blend of different genres. I thought everything from the vocal harmonies to the lead guitar was really in the pocket on this track. 

Sixtytwo definitely gives us a good idea of what to expect from the band in the future. The band has talent but I have a feeling they haven’t come completely into their own yet. Some of the songs while well written feel a little predictable and don’t have enough to separate holdfast from similar sounding bands. Overall, it is a promising start for a band that has potential. 

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