That's The Hold

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "That's The Hold" by Kim Mitchell from his iconic album Akimbo Alogo! This track, though not as widely celebrated as "Go for a Soda," is a gem that captures Mitchell's knack for blending hard rock with quirky, heartfelt vibes. While specific interviews or social media posts about "That's The Hold" are scarce, fans on platforms like Rate Your Music praise its raw energy, with one reviewer noting its "live-sounding, punchy drums" driving the song alongside Mitchell's distinctive vocals. The song's lyrics, penned with longtime collaborator Pye Dubois, carry that signature playful yet poetic style, making it a staple for those sweaty, beer-soaked Canadian house parties in the '80s. Fun fact: Akimbo Alogo's cover art stirred some controversy overseas, with the UK, Japan, and Europe swapping it out because of a cigarette in Mitchell's mouth—talk about rock 'n' roll rebellion!

Kim Mitchell's journey to rock stardom kicked off in Sarnia, Ontario, where he was born in 1952. As a teenager, he was already shredding guitars with local bands, soaking up the gritty rock scene. In the '70s, he and his crew, eventually called "Zooom," hightailed it to Toronto, morphing into the eccentric prog-rock outfit Max Webster. Fronting this band, Mitchell honed his wild guitar chops and stage presence, often opening for fellow Canucks Rush. After Max Webster disbanded in the early '80s, Mitchell went solo, dropping a self-titled EP in 1982 before unleashing Akimbo Alogo in 1984 on Alert Records. That album, with hits like "Go for a Soda," cemented his status as a Canadian rock icon, blending AOR polish with bar-room grit. His love for fishing and keeping it real—eschewing the jet-set rockstar life—endeared him to fans who saw him as one of their own.

Want to keep up with Kim Mitchell? Check out his official website at kimmitchell.ca for tour dates and merch. He’s active on Facebook, sharing updates and throwback pics that’ll make any Zoo Freak nostalgic. His Instagram is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes shots and guitar love, while on X, he drops occasional quips and fan shoutouts. For diehard fans, the Kim Mitchell Fan Club on Facebook is a lively spot where Zoo Freaks swap stories, vinyl finds, and love for his music. You can also dig into fan-driven content at maxwebster.ca, which honors his Max Webster days alongside his solo career. So, crank up "That's The Hold," and let’s keep the rock 'n' roll spirit alive!