Hold On To This Feeling by RED (Feat. Birgit And Strezz): A 1997 Dutch Time Capsule That Still Slaps
Alright, let’s get real for a sec. If you're into that late '90s vibe where hip-hop was still raw but pop rap started creeping in with its shiny hooks, Hold On To This Feeling is the kinda album that sneaks up on ya. Released under Deep Records outta the Netherlands—and yeah, props to Martijn van de Griendt for the cover shot—it’s one of those records that feels like it came from another dimension of cool. It ain’t perfect, but damn if it doesn’t have personality dripping all over it.
Now, this thing’s got two bangers I can’t quit: "Hold On To This Feeling (Extended Version)" and "Mothership (Extended Instrumental)." Let me break it down quick.
First off, “Hold On To This Feeling” hits hard right outta the gate. The beat? Smooth as hell, but not too polished—like they didn’t overthink it. You got Birgit killing it on vocals, just riding the groove like she owns it. And Strezz? Dude brings this swagger that’s half braggadocio, half chill-as-fuck storytelling. What sticks with me most though is how the extended version stretches everything out—you really feel the layers build. Like, yo, when that bassline drops after the second verse? Insane. It's not just music; it’s an experience. Feels like cruising through Rotterdam at night with the windows down, wind messing up your hair. You know?
Then there’s “Mothership (Extended Instrumental).” No lyrics, no problem. This track proves sometimes less is more—or maybe more is MORE because holy crap does this instrumental slap. The production here is straight fire, man. It’s futuristic without trying too hard, mixing synths and beats in ways that make you wanna move even if you’re sitting still. Every time I hear it, I picture neon lights reflecting off rain-soaked streets. Not sure why—it just does. Maybe it’s the sci-fi vibes or the fact that it sounds like something straight outta a movie soundtrack nobody ever made. Either way, it lingers.
Other remixes and versions are solid, don’t get me wrong. But these two tracks? They’re the heart of the record. Everything else orbits around ‘em.
So what’s my take? This album might not change your life, but it’ll definitely remind you how dope music used to be before algorithms decided what we should listen to. There’s something about albums like Hold On To This Feeling—raw energy, bold moves, zero apologies—that modern stuff often lacks. Plus, coming from the Netherlands in ’97? That alone makes it stand out.
Here’s the kicker though: Listening to this now feels kinda bittersweet. Like, did anyone outside Europe even notice this dropped? Probably not. But hey, maybe that’s part of its charm. Some things only hit you later, long after everyone stopped paying attention. Guess that’s art for ya.
Final thought? Life’s short. Go find this album. Play it loud. Then tell someone about it. Trust me, they won’t forget it either.
