The Cold War Kids, a group from Long Beach, have been in heavy rotation on my stereo for the past few weeks. While my favourite track on their debut album, Robbers and Cowards, is still Hang Me Up To Dry there are a number of other gems.

Supposedly the Cold War Kids are incredible live – they put themselves on the map through endless touring, electric live performances, and a release of EPs that earned the band word-of-mouth praise. Now, they’re coming to T.O at some point and I’m dying to see them but have yet to find out how to buy tickets. Shoot.

There is an unpolished appeal to their style, driven by piano and guitars that set the tone for the songs.

The range in style is apparent when you listen to the following three (excellent) songs: We Used to Vacation, Robbers, and Hospital Beds.

As always, check it out in the Streampad player below or grab the podcast.