Holding Out
June 8, 2008
The rock band Holding Out made a joyful noise in Happy Valley's New Hope Community Church last month.
Lead guitarist/vocalist Scott Brockett described the gig as, the second annual, self-produced event where the band could play one and one-half hours of original music and covers as well, in its own way.
Brockett's wife Jen kept the beat with drums; Kelly Betchtell also sang and played rhythm guitar and keyboards; while David Cramer laid down a throbbing bass and added backup vocals.
All four rockers attended Linfield College and performed in the local area, according to Brockett, "trying to go pro, playing weekends and nights." They got together in the summer of 2003. The band described its sound as blues rock with strong vocals and rock energy.
"We play two times a month at the Thirsty Lion in Portland," Brockett says," and it's going great." Holding Out has produced two CDs; the first self- titled, and the second Live.
Brockett says the group decided on its name because, "a lot of bands will settle for getting famous, but not long-lasting. I see so many people going for the quick and easy thing."
Cramer comments, "The purpose (of the band) is to make it in the marketplace."
Bechtell adds, "We believe the songs we write can make a difference in people's lives."
Both Bechtell and Brockett graduated from Linfield College with degrees in music, which they found helpful in composing their songs. The band's major influences are an individual thing, says Brockett, who, along with Bechtell, does most of the writing.
Jen admires Phil Collins and Sting. Brockett himself prefers John Mayer and Robert Randolph "because they're newer to the scene. It's cool to see them successful after a long haul." Cramer says that he listens to a lot of U2 and Ben Harper, while Bechtell goes for Jack Johnson and Amos Lee.
The band's website is www.holdingoutband.com , and can be emailed at holdingoutband@hotmail.com.