Album/EP

All Good Things - Hold On (EP Review)

Paul 'Browny' Brown

CEO/Founder and Editor-In-Chief

/10

Sep 23, 2022

7 min read

All Good Things - Hold On EP
Released: September 23, 2022

Lineup

Dan Murphy // vocals, guitar
Andrew Bojanic // guitar, vocals
Liz Hooper // bass, keyboard, vocals
Miles Franco // guitar, bass, vocals
Tim Spier // drums

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Following on from the success they had with their album A Hope In Hell dropping last year, upcoming LA rockers All Good Things return with their short, but sweet, Hold On EP - which serves as a continuation from their latest LP - offering new renditions for their lead single/title track 'Hold On', a fan-fav B-side and a cover of a Destiny's Child classic!

Opening with the new and improved 'Hold On' - this time featuring ex-Flyleaf singer Lacey Sturm who offers a delicate, yet welcoming delivery to the already impressive earworm. Think 30 Seconds To Mars meets Evanescence and you're not too far removed from the end result of this upgraded radio-ready rock duet that's complete with a string section, captivating instrumentals and even a touch of yells for the heavier rock fans among us. 'Relentless' is the B-side mentioned earlier that didn't make the final cut on A Hope In Hell, but offers a moody, emotional-driven performance from frontman Dan Murphy. It blends stadium rock vibes, with rap-Esque vocals in the chorus and, at times, disjointed time signature playing from the band, that add to the experience as a whole.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCCinAbHlbE

I can't help but think this would be the track that bridges the gap between the band being a radio rock act and dabbling in the heavier side of their performances. I would love to hear All Good Things tackle this style more, because it'll open more doors for them and if Dan hones in on those screams/yells, he'll be up there with the likes of Jared Leto (when he gives a shit about his music), Jason Aalon Butler (Fever 333) and Jacoby Shaddix (Papa Roach). The peaks of the song just don't hit that awe-inspiring/mouth agape moment for me though, but it proves they have potential and should venture into harder/heavier territory.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H43Hnkm9N0

I've said this before and I'll say it again - I am a sucker for bands that cover pop songs and turn them into rock anthems and next AGT take on Destiny's Child by adding some dope, flowing drum beats and riffs to their classic 'Survivor'. Bassist Liz Hooper steps up to bounce back and forth with Dan during the second verse and it's perrrrfect! Liz's highs are a definite highlight here and should be infused into more of their music. There are yells, plenty of high-hat hitting, a guitar solo (drowned out by the vocals though) and overall it's a decent cover. Is it better than the original? Sadly not, but it's a great attempt nonetheless. Keep at it gang!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ICX4d6Dx9c

Last we wrap up the EP (which at this point reminds me more of the CD singles we used to buy in the 90s/2000s era) with an acoustic version of 'Hold On' where the band strip everything back and put Dan's vocals in the spotlight alongside a slow strumming guitar and background violin. With the Lacey Sturm version being the peak performance of the release, we can hear the band trying to hone in on the vocals and messaging of the song - without any hard/rocky instruments behind them - but the emotional delivery doesn't hit as hard without them. The build-up to the crescendo didn't hit as much as I wanted it to (on a personal level) and the added background vocals could have helped with that key moment, but alas, they're used to help fill the track toward its completion. If you have someone who loves the softer side of rock, they'll no doubt swooon over this version, but I feel they nailed the execution with the EP opener.

Outside of the music, the band have been working alongside the charity organisation To Write Love On Her Arms - to help spread awareness and the message of hope for those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. The band hopes their Hold On EP's overall themes and messaging will encourage listeners to seek help when they need it the most and they're proud to align with TWLOHA's You Are Not A Burden campaign - which has run throughout all of September, coinciding with Suicide Awareness Month.

If you or anyone you know needs help with their own mental well-being call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14, or find your closest Suicide Prevention/Crisis Support Organisation on Google…

A great movement from a band that are more than ready to take on the world (with two Aussie exports as well). Keep your eyes peeled for more from All Good Things and don't forget to have a chat with someone if life gets a little too hard. Trust me, it's worth every second.