- In the shadowed realms of modern metal, where the echoes of thunderous riffs resonate, comes "Rock Against Traffic: Live in Pomona" by HolyName. This album, released March 7th via Facedown Records, is more than just music – it's a manifesto where sonic fury converges with a profound act of solidarity. Listen as monumental sound is forged from a desire to uplift and aid.
For the uninitiated, HolyName isn't just another band in the saturated heavy music scene. Founded by Tommy Green, formerly of the influential metalcore outfit Sleeping Giant, HolyName has carved out a unique niche with their self-described "holy drone violent worship" approach. The band's trajectory has been anything but conventional, much like its founder's journey.
"This release represents everything we've been building toward," Green explains during our exclusive interview at the Facedown Records headquarters. "It's not just about the music—it's about creating a movement that can actually change lives."
The genesis of Rock Against Traffic stems from a deeply personal place. Green, who founded the Run Against Traffic organization, has been actively involved in combating human trafficking through various initiatives. The organization, based in Utah, has been steadily building a network of support and awareness through the unlikely combination of running events and heavy music.
The concert, recorded in August 2024 at the iconic Glass House in Pomona, California, brought together some of the scene's most powerful voices. The lineup reads like a who's who of modern Christian metal: Impending Doom, Convictions, Dynasty, and Meadows. But it's the collaborative moments that truly set this release apart.
One such moment is the live rendition of "They See," featuring Michael Felker of Convictions. "Michael Felker is a beast," Green enthuses. "Having him on stage with us... that energy is something you can't manufacture. It's raw, it's real, and it's all captured on this release."
The production quality of the live album deserves special mention. Mixed and mastered by Ryan Leitru, who has been involved with HolyName since their inception, the recording captures both the technical precision and the emotional intensity of the performance. The crowd's energy becomes an instrument in itself, particularly during the moments of call-and-response that pepper the set.
But what makes this release truly special is its purpose. Every pre-order, every stream, and every view contributes to a larger cause. Run Against Traffic has been at the forefront of providing resources and funding programs for trafficking survivors. The organization's approach combines awareness-raising with direct action, creating tangible change in survivors' lives.
"The goal was never just to put on a show," Green reflects. "We wanted to create a template for how the metal and hardcore scene can be a force for good. Rock Against Traffic isn't meant to be a one-off event—it's meant to grow beyond us."
The setlist spans HolyName's catalogue while introducing new material specifically written for this occasion. The band's signature sound—a combination of sludgy, down-tuned guitars, orthodox-inspired chants, and Green's distinctive vocal approach—takes on new dimensions in the live setting. Songs like "Perpetua" and "Meet Me Somewhere Quiet" become even more massive, their messages amplified by the collective energy of the room.
The involvement of Brook Reeves from Impending Doom, another scene veteran, adds another layer of legitimacy to the project. His appearance during the set demonstrates the unity within the metal community when it comes to supporting crucial causes.
Looking ahead, Green's vision for Rock Against Traffic extends far beyond this release. "We're looking at taking this nationwide," he shares. "Different cities, different bands, but the same mission. The metal scene has always been about community, about standing up for what's right. This is just putting those values into direct action."
The physical package itself is a collector's item, featuring extensive liner notes that detail the stories behind the songs and the cause they support. The accompanying video footage, professionally shot with multiple cameras, captures both the intensity of the performances and the intimate moments between songs where artists share their hearts about the cause.
For fans of heavy music, "Rock Against Traffic: Live in Pomona" offers everything you'd want from a live album: crushing performances, unique collaborations, and raw energy. But it's more than that—it's a document of metal culture's ability to mobilize for change, to use its voice for those who have been silenced.
The release comes at a crucial time when awareness about human trafficking is more important than ever. Through the universal language of heavy music, HolyName and their collaborators are reaching audiences who might otherwise remain unaware of this critical issue.
Pre-orders are available now through Facedown Records, with various bundle options including exclusive merchandise designed specifically for this release. Digital downloads will include bonus content featuring interviews with the participating artists and behind-the-scenes footage from the event.
For those who were there, this release will serve as a powerful reminder of a night where metal met meaning. For those who weren't, it's an opportunity to experience what happens when passionate artists unite for a purpose bigger than themselves.
"Rock Against Traffic: Live in Pomona" isn't just a live album—it's a call to action, a blueprint for change, and a testament to the power of heavy music to make a difference. March 7 can't come soon enough.
