Truss ready to make a mark beyond Cleveland’s rock scene

The trio of Hannah Crandall (vocals), Eric Kennedy (guitar/bass), and Holden Szalek (drums) started the band while students at The Ohio State University and have been gaining momentum since then. Their new album, Fluorescence, holds introspective lyrics and draws from influences of 2000s hard rock and alt-metal nostalgia, exploring post-pandemic self-reflection, frustration, and high energy guitar riffs.

The inspiration behind their latest single, “Numb,” came from Hannah’s personal struggle with conforming to societal expectations versus following her own desires. The band’s sound is a mix of hard rock, grunge, alt-metal, and punk, reflecting their upbringing in the ’90s and 2000s music scenes.

Being based in Cleveland, the band finds the city to be an underrated gem, filled with a diverse arts community that supports various genres and artistic expressions. They enjoy the affordability of living in Cleveland and the unique collaborations that arise from the close-knit artistic community. The band hopes that their new album will reach a wider audience across the United States, resonating with listeners who crave a nostalgic sound in 2025.

Reflecting on the band’s origins, Truss was formed by Hannah, Holden, and Eric, who had previously played music together in different projects. They built momentum through performances at local bars and parties while studying at Ohio State. After graduation, the trio decided to relocate back to Cleveland to solidify their musical pursuits.

With their new album release and upcoming summer tour, Truss is ready to break out of the Cleveland rock scene and captivate audiences with their unique blend of genres and nostalgic influences. Fans can catch them live at their album release party on June 21 at the Grog Shop in Cleveland and experience their dynamic sound that continues to evolve with each song they create.