The moment I first heard the full album of Held’s debut Grey, I knew it was record that was beyond true and passionate. But there was another moment during the listen that has stood out since. When the last song came on, it hit like a right hook out of nowhere. “Emptiness: A Side Effect” upped the level of heartfelt intensity as well as the epic nature of the music, vocal, lyrics and arrangement.

When the chorus came in and these lyrics were sung;

“I am the negative of nurture and the hate of the pure
I am the side effect of every side effect you ignore,”

that was the moment that became not just profoundly poetic and beautiful, it became a mantra. Then you add in the way it’s sung by vocalist/guitarist Douglas Robinson, and it’s the absolute cherry on top. Bassist Sal Mignano and drummer Josh Eppard’s rhythm will legitimately make your heart start pounding while the guitar plays off the delicate and more emotional parts of the song.

Songs like “Emptiness: A Side Effect” are what makes being a music enthusiast and music writer an absolute pleasure. I look forward to the day I get to see Held live and I hope that this song gets its live due!

By: Brian Lacy

Emptiness: A Side Effect:

Held- Grey: