Cold War Kids are an American indie rock band from Long Beach, California, United States. Formed in 2004 by Nathan Willett, Matt Maust, Jonnie Russell and Matt Aveiro, they initially developed their sound in Fullerton before relocating to Long Beach.
The band blend indie rock with blues rock and blue-eyed soul influences, drawing on artists such as Bob Dylan and Jeff Buckley. Early EPs led to their debut album "Robbers & Cowards" in 2006, which gained critical attention and produced the single "Hang Me Up to Dry". Subsequent albums "Loyalty to Loyalty" and "Mine Is Yours" broadened their sound, while "Dear Miss Lonelyhearts" and "Hold My Home" yielded fan favourites including "Miracle Mile" and the alternative hit "First".
Later releases such as "L.A. Divine", the "New Age Norms" trilogy and the self-titled album "Cold War Kids" continued to showcase their evolving, soulful rock style. The band have also been recognised for innovative visuals, with the interactive video for "I’ve Seen Enough" earning a Webby Award nomination alongside MTV Video Music Award recognition.
