Two Truths’ track “Holding it Do” opens with a guitar sound that immediately evokes the spirit of iconic bands like the Allman Brothers. However, as the vocals enter, a whole new dimension is introduced, showcasing a fresh and contemporary vibe while still maintaining a classic foundation. The chorus is particularly captivating, with its dynamic arrangement and multilayered vocals, making it an overall great song.
Based in Los Angeles, Two Truths is a new-wave dark-folk band that weaves elusive and enchanting musical narratives. Each song they create is a vignette that transports listeners into its own unique world, sometimes familiar and other times far away, offering an escape from reality.
Born out of the creative and spiritual lull of the COVID-19 pandemic, Two Truths is the brainchild of Jonathan Blake and Garrett Mader. What started as an experiment soon turned into an ongoing exploration of sound. The duo was later joined by longtime collaborator Max Greenberg on keys and Byron Cage on drums, solidifying the band’s lineup. Together, they craft a sound driven by guitar-driven melodies, atmospheric synths, and a fusion of electronic and acoustic drums. Jonathan Blake takes the lead as the vocalist, mandolinist, guitarist, bassist, songwriter, producer, and mix engineer, spearheading the project.
The single “Holding it down” serves as the first release from Two Truths’ second EP, titled “The Long Goodbye.” Penned by Jonathan Blake, the song serves as a stoic anthem for those who may feel lost or hopeless, yet choose to persevere toward the light. It explores the idea of finding oneself while also navigating the delicate balance between love and frustration in a relationship.
Musically, “Holding it down” embodies the essence of all-American guitar-driven rock, featuring subtle guitar interludes and an epic harmonized guitar solo reminiscent of the Allman Brothers. The track brings to mind elements of Tom Petty, Lynyrd Skynyrd, U2, and Ray LaMontagne, resulting in a real, raw, and invigorating composition that carries an uplifting message.
Jonathan Blake reflects on the creation of the song, sharing, “I wrote ‘Holding it down’ one morning after a night of drinking. The opening line was humming in my head, and I realized it wasn’t from any song I’d heard before. I sat down, and it all came out at once, accompanied by a few tears along the way. Sometimes, when your guard is down, the work flows effortlessly, as if it had been building up inside you all along, only to reveal itself unexpectedly.”
The personnel behind “Holding it down” includes Jonathan Blake as the songwriter, producer, and mix engineer. The talented musicians contributing to the track are Garrett Mader on guitar and background vocals, Max Greenberg on piano and organ, Byron Cage on drum kit and percussion, and Abby Celso providing background vocals.