HoldFast. Band Interview

“We like to get the crowd moving and dancing; it should feel like a party,” said Mikey Maddocks of HoldFast. The band opened for Cardinal Bloom in Washington, DC, on October 11. Formed in Denver in 2011, alt-rock trio HoldFast. brings Charlie, Mikey, and Tommy Maddocks’ family dynamic to the stage. The band is heavily influenced by familiar names like U2, The Cure, and Muse. I had the opportunity to interview HoldFast.’s bassist and backing vocalist, Mikey, before the band hit the stage that night.

When I asked about the band’s earliest memory of playing together, Mikey recalled a middle school field day fourteen years ago. Charlie’s English teacher had convinced them to perform. Although they were already called HoldFast., they were introduced as The Charlie Maddocks Band, making it a memorable moment in their history.

When I asked Mikey about the writing process for their new album, Darkness To Light, he said a song usually begins with a melody or riff, after which Charlie and Tommy build the lyrics piece by piece until it is finished. For Darkness To Light, though, they worked to a strict timeline with limited studio time and few prepared demos.

Mikey’s story about their Red Rocks set showed how the band adapts to obstacles. Playing such a major venue was a milestone for them. In 2023, HoldFast. won a competition to be Dermot Kennedy’s opener for his Denver tour date. This was exciting until they were hit with a restriction that only allowed them an acoustic guitar and one mic; the band worked hard to put together an acoustic set that would showcase their musicianship. Luckily, they were able to secure a few more mics, and the set went well. Mikey still describes it as the most nerve-racking show they have played.

With Mikey due onstage soon, I had time for a few final questions. I asked him what they want listeners to feel the first time they hear their music; he said he wants them to feel hopeful. That was encouraging to hear. In a world filled with hate and anger, music can give people something to lean on.

Finally, I asked what song best represents the band. Mikey chose “Everything Wrong.” The title seems at odds with their hopeful message, but the lyrics tell a story of persistence and trying to make loved ones proud. Lines like “There’s something in a song that makes me get along” and “We will make our families proud” are so strong, especially coming from a family band whose whole message is spreading hope.

Seeing HoldFast. live and speaking with the band was amazing. They are some of the most genuine people I’ve met, and they put together an impressive set. They took control of the crowd, getting us moving and dancing just like Mikey had said they would.

I highly recommend you check out HoldFast.’s new album Darkness To Light, which came out August 7, 2026. Two of my favorites were “A Note To My Younger Self” and “Bet!” HoldFast. has a long story ahead of them; I can tell you that now.

Here To Read The Full Concert Story!

Leave a comment