You know, it’s odd to me that the reunion of Cold hasn’t made more waves than it has. Cold is easily one of the most interesting and lyrically thought-provoking bands of the late nineties/early new millennium and their fans have always seemed pretty die hard. Regardless of the seeming lack of fanfare, Cold return with their fifth full-length for new label home, ElevenSeven (Trapt, Motley Crue, Buckcherry, Drowning Pool, etc.). Titled, Superfiction, the album is very much the Cold you remember, picking up right where A Different Kind of pain left off while also picking up the pace a bit.
The album kicks off with “Wicked World,” an electronically-riddled, even-keeled anthem that is similar to the sound of the band’s biggest commercial success, Year of the Spider. “American Dream,” Emily,” and “Welcome to My World,” are mid-tempo anthems as well, tailor made to connect large audiences intimately with the band. The atmospheric but anthemic “Flight of the Superstar” is hook-laden piece of gold that really showcases a new side of Cold that may unnerve longtime fans a bit, but personally, I hope we get some more of that in the future. It has a bit of Coldplay/Muse/Arcade Fire vibe going on and it fits Scooter Ward’s lyrics beautifully. It’s tremendously intricate sounding, yet completely accessible. It’s coupled with “The Ballad of the Nameless,” one of the most beautiful songs that Cold have penned to date and featuring some truly excellent guitar work. The duo of songs leave you wanting more at the end of the album, as all classic albums do.
Listening to this album is a lot like finding your favorite hat stored away in a box somewhere. You put it back on and it immediately feels right…even important. Cold have that magical ability to pull you into their music and envelope you in its feel, both lyrically and musically. If you look strong hooks and melodies with a rock edge but want a band that delves a lot deeper lyrically than Cold’s Superfiction is for you. Don’t miss out.
Reviewed by Mark Fisher
