Houston, TX rockers, Hold on Hollywood have released their second EP, Love Stories. Produced by Blue October’s Matt Noveskey, Love Storiesis a great collection of songs that are packed with huge hooks, infectious melody, and packed by monster guitars. After my first listen through, I was instantly hooked.
Opening up the EP is extremely catchy, “Second Favorite.” My first impression made me think of A Boy Named Goo era Goo Goo Dolls. Raw emotion and pop sensibility make this track so unforgettable, you will be singing and humming along after the first listen.
“Anything You Say” is great moody, mid-tempo rocker with an arena sized chorus. It definitely comes off as a great song, which fits in nicely with the album title. Vocalist Ian Dartez has a great voice that was meant for this kind of music.
“Movies” is the first official single taken from the album. It’s a wonderful song paints the perfect picture of a great love story with an amazing musical backdrop. This song right here is the quintessential first date song. That chorus is absolutely stunning!
“Too Late” takes things to the other side of the love spectrum. Emotionally charged both lyrically and musically, this track is a very honest and relatable tale of love loss.
Ending the album on high note, is the band’s cover of the Eddie Money (RIP) classic, “Take Me Home Tonight.” The guitar heavy intro hooked me instantly and really took it home (pun intended for me) Hold on Hollywood pays a wonderful tribute with a faithful and modern take on an already legendary piece of music.
Love Stories is a solid release that is jam packed with music that speaks to the listener on many different levels. The music will move you; the lyrics will touch you, and you will be singing at the top of your lungs. Hold on Hollywood definitely have something special here, and I can’t wait for the rest of the world to discover them.
Rating: 8/10 Stars.
I’m Music Magazine Writer Jason “Supes” Mesa
FOLLOW HOLD ON HOLLYWOOD ONLINE
https://www.holdonhollywood.com
