Cold War Kids @ The Observatory, Santa Ana 2/21/13

February 28. 2013 | By Andre Cruz

Cold War Kids are in the midst of a very long tour to promote their new album Dear Miss Lonely Hearts, which is to be released on April 2nd. Their first stop was at The Observatory in Santa Ana to a sold-out home crowd.

Superhumanoids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Superhumanoids

Superhumanoids provided the night’s opening entertainment. The band was warmly welcomed by the eagerly anxious crowd. Many in attendance seemed to be familiar with Superhumanoids since they’ve been on a hot streak as of late, opening for bands such as Local Natives and Grouplove.

Superhumanoids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Superhumanoids

Superhumanoids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Superhumanoids

After a brief set-up, Cold War Kids took to the stage and frontman Nathan Willett declared, “We’re Cold War Kids and we’re from here.” The band started their set with a new song which kept the crowd in anticipation complete with a slow build up.

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

That song led into a steady beat drum which would provide the introduction to “Mexican Dogs” and also a dance frenzy by everyone in attendance. “Miracle Mile” followed which happens to be the first single off their upcoming album. During “I’ve Seen Enough,” Cold War Kids’ chemistry was undeniable with bassist Matt Maust lending a very impressive bass solo. “Audience” created a full out sing along, as did “Louder Than Ever,” both of which are off their last album Mine Is Yours.

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

During ”Hang Me Out To Dry” Nathan broke a weak attempt of a mosh pit asking those involved to “knock it off!” and to “look at me instead.” They ended their set with “We Used To Vacation,” which saw the band in a playful mood, bumping into each other. Nathan would walk over to the piano to include the off-tune piano chords before each verse. This playfulness and spontaneous interaction was visible amongst their entire set.

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

When the band left the stage, the crowd demanded more. Cheering for them to continue with their “soul/punk,” as they self-describe their sound. Nathan came out by himself to play a new song behind the piano, which he plays on the majority of their new songs. “Hospital Beds” followed and the restless crowd accompanied the song with hand claps, taking in everything Cold War Kids had to give. Nathan jokingly said, “we’re going to really prolong this,” and that they did, playing a solid 20-minute encore. No complaints here.

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

Cold War Kids @ the Observatory, LA 2/21/13
Cold War Kids

Go here to check out more badass photos of the show.

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