The outfit, oft described as "skinny-jeaned Christian rockers, was formed in 2004 and is comprised of Nathan Willett (lead vocals, piano, guitar), Matt Maust (bass), Jonnie Russell (guitar, vocals, percussion) and Matt Aveiro (drums).
After recording some demos in the Los Angeles area, Cold War Kids released a number of buzz-building EPs, including "Mulberry Street," before their official studio LP, the critically acclaimed "Robbers and Cowards." With Willet's Jeff Buckley-ish, wailing vocals, the constantly vibrant lyrics, and a bluesy yet rocking style, Cold War Kids have quickly built a reputation for innovation among fans and critics alike. Their sophomore effort, "Loyalty to Loyalty," was slower and more introspective compared to preview releases, but no less dynamic.
This past January, they hit the spotlight with the release of the release of "Mine is Yours," an 11-track collection of what could be their most mainstream release yet.
They've added "a slice of pop" to their soul-punk mix, as Drowned in Sound put it. "Mine is Yours" has thus far charted in the US, UK, and Australia as a result. Released January 2011, this third LP of Cold War Kids is energetic and efficient, just like their performances on stage.
Hear the band play live, including a favorite song of the band's, "Bulldozer," from their new release "Mine Is Yours."
Website: http://www.coldwarkids.com/
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/coldwarkids
Set List:
LOUDER THAN EVER
BULLDOZER
FASHIONABLE
Recent Release: Mine Is Yours
Release Date: January 25, 2011
Label: Downtown Records
Band Origin: Long Beach, CA