Slow Degrade Lean Into 2000s Nu-Metal and Heavy Alt-Rock on New Single “Hold On”

Mobile, Alabama heavy alternative outfit Slow Degrade have returned with “Hold On,” a new single released October 16 via Arson Theory, alongside an official video directed by Dylan Cole.

Following the more atmospheric “lead me down.” earlier this year, “Hold On” leans harder into the band’s love of 2000s nu-metal and melodic heavy alternative rock. Thick, distorted guitars and punchy, nu-metal-inspired rhythms give the track plenty of weight, while an emotionally charged, hook-filled chorus brings out the melody beneath the heaviness. There’s still a grungegaze undercurrent, but the emphasis here is on a more direct, muscular alt-metal sound.

Lyrically, the song deals with the emotional toll of a one-sided or toxic relationship, and the difficulty of breaking away when you’ve already given more than you can afford. The Dylan Cole-directed video uses a stark, overgrown field and an angel-like figure to capture that sense of distance and attachment.

Formed in 2022, Slow Degrade have built their sound around the contrast between hazy atmosphere and crushing heaviness. “Hold On” marks another step toward the heavier side of that balance. Watch the official video below.