Cold War Kids released their fifth album on Oct. 21.
Sadly, none of the band’s albums have lived up to the high praises of their debut, Robbers & Cowards. With the exit of their lead guitarist in 2012 and drummer in 2013, the band has faced some of the most devastating obstacles within a group. In a more positive turn of events, the band acquired former Modest Mouse drummer, Joe Plummer, former Modest Mouse guitarist, Dann Gallucci, as well as taking on a full-time keyboardist, Matthew Schwartz. Since their formation in 2004, Cold War Kids has been experimenting with everything from blues and soul to indie. While they have received more mixed reviews with the release of their past three albums, both Loyalty to Loyalty and Mine is Yours reached No. 21 on the Billboard 200. In recent years, the band has failed to generate much popularity. But all of that may change with the release of their latest album, Hold My Home.
The first three songs set the stage for a powerful album that mixes old and new ideas. “All This Could Be Yours,” the current radio single, draws listeners in with the singer’s unique wail echoing over the familiar driving piano rhythm, which is reminiscent of previous songs like “Something is Not Right With Me.”
The second song, ironically titled “First,” is an anthem that commands the listener to clap to the beat and sing along with the chant, “First you get close, then you get worried.” Next is “Hot Coals,” which contains some of the album’s best songwriting with the lyrics, “I suspect the reason I am loved/Is because of how tight I’m holding on.”
The two new members, plus a permanent keyboardist, are allowed their debut on songs such as “Drive Desperate” (one of the most notable songs on the album), “Hotel Anywhere,” and “Go Quietly.” The new members bring somewhat of a new start to the band. “Go Quietly” leaves us in awe over the singer’s incredible falsetto, as if he could surprise us any more than he already has with his unique voice.
The remainder of the album isn’t as noteworthy as it is a repeat of the tried practices the band has tackled before. One notable song is the second to last, “Harold Bloom,” a slow, haunting song that features the singer’s voice accompanied by only a piano.
Hold My Home contains some of the strongest songs heard from the band since their debut album. Not every song is a homerun, but the album is definitely a step in the right direction for any future albums the band wants to release.
The addition of new band members allows for more powerful instrumentals, especially with a full-time keyboardist who adds to the powerful tones of each song. While this album may not entirely redeem their past work, it’s a definite improvement. Hold My Home contains some of the best songwriting seen from the band in a while. Most every song on the album holds some emotional depth, which the band was criticized for lacking on previous albums.
3/5