California rockers Cold War Kids are back with their 5th studio album Hold My Home. Hold My Home comes on the heels of 2013’s Dear Miss Lonelyhearts. In the past couple of years Cold War Kids have gone from a four-piece band to a five piece – with guitarist Dann Gallucci replacing Jonnie Russell, drummer Joe Plummer replacing Matt Aveiro, and the addition of touring member Matthew Schwartz on keys and guitar.
Vocalist Nathan Willet and bassist Matt Maust have remained and kept the heart of the band intact. One would think a band would have a severe case of growing pains amidst all the change, but Hold My Home proves that Cold War Kids have maintained their fierce independent streak while venturing into new territory.
Hold My Home is produced by Lars Stalfors (Matt & Kim) and guitarist Dann Gallucci does double-time as a producer as well. The album has all the distinctive qualities fans have grown accustomed to – strong harmonies, chiming guitar sounds, and strong bass lines. Nathan Willet’s signature vocals are better than ever on Hold My Home – particularly on Go Quietly where he approaches his upper range with ease. His vocals are accentuated by chanting/echoing backing vocals that are more prevalent on this album than previous outings.
Hold My Home is classic Cold War Kids, but also a testament to Nathan Willett and Matt Maust’s willingness to cover new musical themes and characters. Opening songs All This Can Be Yours and First are first-rate singles. Flower Drum Song may be the most classic sounding song on the album with Hotel Anywhere and Hold My Home the biggest departures with 80’s sounding bombast reminiscent of The Smiths and Elvis Costello. Hold My Home is a rousing effort for the latest incarnation of Cold War Kids.
Hold My Home is currently available in the UK and will be released on October 21st in the U.S.
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