Cold War Kids: Debut Success, Sophomore Slump?

Cold War Kids' return with 'Loyalty to Loyalty' has sparked debate, echoing the divisive reception of their 2006 debut, 'Robbers & Cowards.' While the first album sold around 169,000 copies, the new release, 'Loyalty to Loyalty,' is met with criticism regarding vocalist Nathan Willett's performance.

Reviewers suggest Willett's delivery often strains under the album's weighty subject matter, sometimes overpowering the songs themselves. This approach leads to a perceived disconnect between the music's form and its function, with moments of genuine emotion lost in an unhinged vocal style. However, the band's rhythm section is commended for its solid and increasingly skillful performance throughout the album.

Despite some palatable tracks like 'Mexican Dogs,' the album's overall reception is mixed. Critics point to a perceived self-indulgence in Willett's vocal approach, suggesting a belief in the band's own hype. 'Loyalty to Loyalty' is seen by some as a demonstration of the band emphasizing their weaknesses, raising questions about their artistic direction.