Cold War Kids – New Age Norms 1

Cold War Kids have long been more of a soul-blues revival than indie-rock (though still done by white guys)....
Cold War Kids : New Age Norms 1
7.8 AWAL
2019 

Cold War Kids : New Age Norms 1

Cold War Kids have long been more of a soul-blues revival than indie-rock (though still done by white guys). When they’ve veered away from this, they’ve lost energy, but have been correcting the skid in the last decade. New Age Norms goes more soul than ever before, for some standouts & some also-rans.

First, the standouts. “Fine Fine Fine” is well more than fine, very enjoyable soul-bop. “Dirt In My Eyes” is an absolutely great, funky kiss-off. Other pieces showcase the Cold War R&B, if not to quite the same effect. But at eight songs, only thirty minutes, New Age Norms 1 doesn’t wear out its welcome (and there will likely be a quick follow-up).

Cold War Kids broke out with some great EPs (later compiled into full-length Robbers & Cowards), and perhaps that is their best route, delivering what they can do, but not sticking around to do what they can’t.

Categories
Album Reviews
Album of the Week