THE FRONT ROW

“Hang on, I’ll wait for you my friend.”
Finding Aurora’s latest single Hang On feels like a breath of fresh air from an era of rock that still holds plenty of weight. The song is honest and direct, offering comfort to anyone struggling with life’s darker moments. “No matter how deep that you’re sinking, I can’t let it pull you down,” the lead vocals assure. It’s a straightforward message, but it’s delivered with genuine emotion that makes it resonate beyond the usual inspirational ballad.

Musically, Hang On is a satisfying listen. It recalls the sound of late 90s alternative rock bands like Collective Soul or the Goo Goo Dolls before they hit the mainstream big time. The guitars have that warm, textured feel, not overly polished but carefully crafted, while the rhythm section keeps a steady, driving pulse underneath. It’s the kind of song you’d want playing on a late-night drive or when you need a moment to clear your head.

This track also marks the end of an era for the band, as it’s the final release featuring founding drummer Nick Doherty. It closes a chapter with a song that is both heartfelt and anthemic. While the band plans to move toward a grunge-influenced sound next, Hang On is a reminder of what Finding Aurora can do in this style. For fans like me, who have a soft spot for that late 90s rock vibe, it’s a shame to see them switch direction. But bands evolve, and tastes change, that’s part of the journey.

The vocals from Samuel Wagenaar Jenkins carry the song with a steady sincerity. There’s no showboating, no unnecessary vocal acrobatics, just a voice that fits the song’s mood perfectly. Backing vocals and lead guitar add texture without overwhelming the core message. It’s a well-balanced track that respects the simplicity of its theme: don’t give up, and know someone’s there for you.

Hang On doesn’t try to be groundbreaking or reinvent the wheel. It knows what it wants to be, a solid, emotionally driven rock song with a relatable message. In a music landscape that often rewards gimmicks or flashiness, that’s a quality worth noting.

If you’re after an alternative rock track that feels like a throwback without sounding dated, this will fit the bill. It’s the kind of song that’s easy to return to, offering something comforting with each listen.

Finding Aurora may be heading in a different direction soon, but Hang On stands as a reminder of the strength in straightforward songwriting and genuine feeling. It’s not a revolution, but sometimes you don’t need one.