What makes Hold Time by M. Ward notable?

Hold Time received positive reviews from several prominent music publications, such as Pitchfork and Rolling Stone, further establishing Ward as a significant figure in the indie folk scene. The album’s exploration of nostalgia and lyrical depth resonated with listeners, contributing to its commercial success and lasting influence on subsequent artists within the genre. Released in 2009, Hold Time is M. Ward's fifth studio album and represents a consolidation of his established indie folk sound following the critical acclaim of Post-War in 2006. By this time, Ward had solidified his reputation as a solo artist while continuing to collaborate with others, including his work with She & Him.

Who is Hold Time for?

Hold Time works well if you're into nostalgic longing throughout tracks, wave-like pacing with peaks and for reflective afternoons.

How many songs are on Hold Time?

Hold Time has 14 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Hold Time

M. Ward · 2009

44 min · 14 tracks · folk music

A warm tapestry of folk-infused melodies intertwining with introspective lyrics and a touch of vintage charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Never Had Nobody Like You — This track showcases an engaging blend of upbeat instrumentation and heartfelt vocals, capturing the essence of longing in a playful manner.
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Jailbird — With its catchy chorus and rhythmic drive, this song exemplifies Ward's ability to merge storytelling with infectious melodies that linger long after listening.
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Hold Time — The title track serves as a poignant reflection on time and memory, encapsulating the album's overarching themes through its intimate arrangement and contemplative lyrics.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends warm melodies and introspective lyrics, showcasing M. Ward's established indie folk style.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered guitar melodies that create a warm, inviting sound throughout.
Several tracks incorporate backing vocals that harmonize with Ward's lead, adding depth to the arrangements.
The pacing varies, with mid-tempo songs interspersed with slower ballads, creating a reflective atmosphere.
The final track serves as an outro that gently fades out, leaving a lingering sense of nostalgia.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

nostalgic longing throughout tracks
wave-like pacing with peaks
for reflective afternoons
introspective melodies for solitude

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy anthems
prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2009, Hold Time is M. Ward's fifth studio album and represents a consolidation of his established indie folk sound following the critical acclaim of Post-War in 2006. By this time, Ward had solidified his reputation as a solo artist while continuing to collaborate with others, including his work with She & Him.
Stylistic neighbors: Iron & Wine· Sufjan Stevens· Nick Drake