Smoltz’s “Holding Out” is a classic-sounding indie rock track that reminds me of artists like early Modest Mouse tracks “Dramamine” or quieter moments from the band Hum. The sweet melody, crunchy guitar textures, and rhythmic production ideas that gracefully use the entire kit was a great juxtaposition often found in this style. Reminiscent of Pavement is a set of lyrics that outline a narrative of struggle with relationships in a very shoegaze way. You can find comfort in the coming-of-age indie rock sound from “holding out” by Smoltz. The tension in the guitar writing is so wonderful and the light pads that occasionally chime in at the end of passages are sweet.
Smoltz “Holding Out”
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