The Holy Fields

The debut EP from this local power-pop foursome sounds a hair predictable – no surprise considering the band's Can-Rock pedigree, with members coming from the likes of By Divine Right (John Hall), 13 Engines (Scott Stevenson) and Eudora (Mike Gennaro). But the disc is so determinedly positive and major chord oriented it may as well have a built-in dis-deflector (even if you hate major chords and all the happiness that they tend to represent). Indeed, tracks like "Livin On Earth" and "She Knows" are veritable positive-reinforcement mantras, although they probably won't appeal to the goth set. Still, those suffering from seasonal affective disorder should check it out.

CHRIS ROLFE
- Eye Weekly

One of the best EPs we have heard not only in 2007, but we'll go back to 2006 as well. 5 songs which are tight, taut and perfect. THIS is what power pop needs to be about in 2007 folks. Why not more material? Well, no need to cry, this Canadian band(and import) is a striking example of what the agenda should be making power pop that matters.
Straight ahead pop power with tasty melodies and hot energy, sweat, sincerity, and a genuine sense of excitement seem to surround every song here.
Hugely Recommended!!
- Notlame.com

Here is a quick little gem that's a "must get" for you lovers of heavy rockin' power pop. The Holy Fields have nothing to do with boxing, but make a mean 5 song ep that contains some great guitars and harmonies. If you like Velvet Crush or Splitsville, this Canadian band will fit the bill. "She Knows" is a classic that is pretty typical of the genre. And every track here is worthy of your ipod. Enjoy this and get the EP at Not Lame, Emusic or itunes. Trust me on this -- it's an easy choice! I can't wait for the full length CD!
- Powerpopaholic.com

Very, very impressive 5-song debut from this Canadian quartet that really rocks! Their New Wave-ish songs are as melodic and fun as they are guitar driven. The current lineup bonded through a love of classic rock, and includes a Who fanatic, and a guitarist with a knack for squeezing out juicy lead lines a la Jimmy Page. Mike has a ridiculously vast knowledge of 70's pop (and it shows)!
This is solid, classic, upbeat Power Pop from start to finish! Chock full of tight, crunchy and jangly guitars, spot on harmonies, and hool-heavy songs! We hear some Jellyfish, Kinks (especially the harmonies on "Livin On Earth"), The Producers and Brit-poppers The Dazzlers throughout! Can't say enough about this one! And, can't wait for a full length! GREAT!!!
- Koolkatmusik.com

This Toronto band seem like they are part of what one might call “the happy band revolution,” which has been popular in the city over the last year. With poppy songs that are easy to dance to, the Holy Fields are like a fusion of Henri Faberge and the Adorables, with a little Joel Plaskett. Featuring five songs about love, lust and all that living that happens in between, the EP is nothing but good, clean fun. There is something about a Beach Boys sensibility that is catching the ears of many, and perhaps escapism is what makes their pop sound so appealing. And, with songs like “She Knows” and “Don’t Tell Me,” it’s the band’s ability to write easy-to-remember lyrics and high-note guitar riffs that make them a hot air balloon that’s ready to fly up into the clouds.

Jasmyn Burke
- Exclaim Magazine

The good times are back in rock n roll, if you can imagine such a thing. Members of Toronto's Holy Fields have been around the musical block a few times, but still have the energy as if it's their first time out and prove it on this self-titled five track EP. The music feels fresh and fun, and it explodes with the power pop dexterity of sweet melodies and more harmonies than you can shake a stick at. It's all about good times here, as the lead-off track "Livin' on Earth" clearly reminds us with the literal optimism as much as the big, catchy guitar lines that will have you humming along immediately and right through the remainder of the EP. It all may feel a bit innocent, but there are very few other things in life that will make you feel good about joyfully bouncing off the walls like this.

Dara Kartz

Popmatters.com
- Popmatters.com

When most bands say their CDs should be played as loudly as possible for full enjoyment, it's usually a case of hyperbole, coupled with recognizing that the louder the music is, the easier it is to gloss over any number of inconsistencies and faults. In the case of The Holy Fields' self-titled debut EP, however, their back-of-case claim that "For best results, play at maximum volume" is entirely accurate. They specialize in the kind of upbeat power-pop that made bands like OK Go and Weezer famous, and they do it with enough hooks that it's not hard to imagine them becoming just as famous one day. Songs like "Livin' On Earth" and "Your Sister" are powered by big riffs and catchy choruses, and it's easy to be excited about where these guys could go next.
- iheartmusic.net