The second and most recent major release from Cold War Kids is a charmingly messy sequel to 2006's "Robbers & Cowards". This quartet from Long Beach, CA has an incredibly distinct musical signature, comprised of periodical use of irregular beats and a sort of strained vocal styling. This is more music one would flail to rather than dance. "Loyalty To Loyalty" is somewhat unremarkable. There are certain tracks that are inspired and stand out, but there are more tracks that just blend in. It's tough to actually discern what this album is really about. Most of the lyrics are randomly strewn together. This is not necessarily such a bad thing because they leave a lot open to interpretation. I personally find themes of nostalgia, pursuing happiness, and hopelessness. I do enjoy this album, but not that much,,,certainly not as much as the previous work. The band's third major release is due out early next year and will be titled "Mine Is Yours".

RedletterDaydream

Past Works:
Robbers & Cowards

Track:
I've Seen Enough

Following the break up of The Replacements in the 90's, Tommy Stinson and Steve Foley created a wonderful and highly potential band called Bash & Pop. Sadly the band disbanded after their first album and it now  has sunk into oblivion and no one really knows that it even exist....except for me. If you like The Replacements there is no doubt in my mind that you will like this album, it is almost like a "lost" Replacements. On the other hand we have Stinson singing and playing guitar and he holds his own and gives us a good feeling when we hear the opening track "Never Aim To Please." We hear the joyfulness and sometimes the sadness in his lyrics, every song is shaped from a part of his life it seems. Trying to find this album might be a little difficult so I suggest Amazon you can probably get it for a penny or so. Hope you enjoy this long lost gem.

LoopedEyeless

Past Works:
N/A

Track:
Never Aim To Please