Whenever I read reviews for Holding Onto Sound, it seems to me that critics are obsessed with comparing them to other bands with an established style. From what I’ve read, most people say that they sound like Against Me! with a touch of Leftover Crack. In other words, HOTS play mostly orgcore, but have introduced upstrokes one would expect from ska. For those of you who are unclear about the definition of orgcore, my guess the term comes from punknews.org, a website that exalts bands that play pop-punk, folk-punk, or melodic hardcore. Are you with me so far? Now just imagine that with elements of crack rock steady, which is a mix of ska and death metal. If your brain hasn’t popped yet, try to imagine what an orgcore rudeboy looks like.

I think colleges are lacking courses in the study of subgenres. It’s only a matter of time before other bands start jumping on the orgcore/ska wagon, at which point a new word will have to be invented to classify them. Welcome to the future, son.

(Geykido Comet Records, PO Box 93324, Las Vegas, NV 89193)

Verbicide Free Download: Click here  to download “Tommy Boy” by Holding Onto Sound