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Cold (band)
Cold (band)
Cold (band)
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Cold is an American rock band formed in 1986 in Neptune Beach, Florida. Co-founded by lead singer and rhythm guitarist Scooter Ward, drummer Sam McCandless, bassist Jeremy Marshall, and lead guitarist Matt Loughran, the band has undergone numerous lineup changes with Ward being its only constant member.

Key Information

In 1997, at the urging of Fred Durst, Flip Records/A&M Records signed Cold to a recording contract.[1] The band's debut album, Cold (1998), sold poorly due to A&M's closure in the months following its release, resulting in the band moving to Geffen Records. Cold found mainstream success with 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage (2000) and its follow-up Year of the Spider (2003), which saw the band incorporate influences of post-grunge and alternative rock into their sound; both albums were certified Gold by the RIAA, with the latter reaching number three on the Billboard 200 chart and producing the band's only single to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, "Stupid Girl". However, Cold would soon part ways with Geffen in March 2004 over disputes surrounding the promotion of Year of the Spider, and went through a succession of lineup changes throughout the rest of the year.

Cold signed with Lava Records in July 2004, who released their fourth album, A Different Kind of Pain (2005); the album's more sombre, downbeat tone alienated fans and subsequently failed to repeat the success of the band's prior albums. After a period of uncertainty, Cold announced their disbandment In November 2006. In July 2008, it was announced that the original line-up would reunite for a tour in early 2009, which later spiralled into a fully fledged reunion. The band have since released two more studio albums; Superfiction in 2011, and their most recent album, The Things We Can't Stop, in 2019.

History

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Early history (1986–1998)

[edit]

Cold, who at the time were called Grundig, formed in 1986 with the line-up of Scooter Ward (vocals, rhythm guitar), Sam McCandless (drums), Jeremy Marshall (bass) and Matt Loughran (lead guitar) at Fletcher High School in Neptune Beach, Florida. The band played their first gig in 1990 at a club called the Spray. In 1992, the band released an 8-song EP called "Into Everything".

Initially based in Jacksonville, Florida, they moved to Atlanta, Georgia, hoping to get a break in the industry. During this time, Matt Loughran left the band and was replaced by Sean Lay, who also left the group. Kelly Hayes then joined, and they all later returned to Florida. Three and a half years later in 1995, Grundig broke up and Ward moved back to Jacksonville, where he, McCandless, Kelly Hayes, and Pat Lally formed the band Diablo. Diablo would only last about three months. At the end of that three-month period, Grundig reformed under the name Cold in 1996.

Self titled album (1998–2000)

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Following Cold's progress in the Jacksonville scene was local Fred Durst. Impressed by what he had heard, he invited Ward to record two acoustic tracks, "Check Please" and "Ugly." The two demos were passed on to producer Ross Robinson, who was also impressed by what he had heard, leading the recently renamed Cold to record their debut album titled Cold in 1997.

In 1997, Cold was signed to Flip Records, with distribution through the major label A&M Records. Cold was released in 1998, and received positive reviews from critics. However, shortly after its release, A&M folded due to the Universal Music Group–PolyGram merger, resulting in the album's promotion being suddenly cut, which hurt the album's sales greatly; Flip Records' founder, Jordan Schur, described the album as being "a car shut off in midgear", and thus only managed to sell just below 40,000 copies in the US.[2] However, thanks to Schur, Cold avoided being dropped by UMG during the merger, and soon after Flip transferred the band's contract over to Geffen Records, where Schur had just been named president of, in 1999.[3][4] Regardless of the label's poor promotion of the album, Cold soon opened for Limp Bizkit and Soulfly during a brief European tour in the spring of 1998.[5]

That same year, the band released the Oddity EP. Its cover photo, taken by the wife of McCandless, depicts their pet tarantula named Wednesday, crawling on the face of her doll. The band sought a signature element that fans could remember them by, and Wednesday served as the inspiration; McCandless gave a particularly favorable image of a spider to a friend and tattoo artist who transformed it into what would become Cold's official logo. The drummer would later note, "Our music kind of creeps along like a spider."[6]

13 Ways to Bleed on Stage (2000–2002)

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The "Spider" logo, which has been used on most of Cold's releases since 2000.[6]

Geffen financed their second album titled 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage, which was released on September 12, 2000. In 1999 before recording the album, the group recruited local guitarist Terry Balsamo, who briefly played for Limp Bizkit. With the new guitar addition Ward was now able to focus more on singing and interacting with the crowd.[7] 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage proved to be Cold's breakthrough album with successful singles in "End of the World" and "No One" frequently played on hard rock radio, with "No One" hitting No. 17 on Mainstream Rock Tracks and No. 13 on Modern Rock Tracks, and the music video being put in heavy rotation on MTV2.[4] The album included guest singer Aaron Lewis from Staind on the songs "Send in the Clowns" and "Bleed" and singer Sierra Swan from Dollshead on "No One" and "Witch".[7] The song "Just Got Wicked" was also a surprise hit, being featured in the soundtrack to the game Jet Grind Radio and hitting No. 25 on Mainstream Rock tracks, which aided in the band's popularity.[4]

In April 2002, the band released "Gone Away, "a surprisingly moody ballad. The song first appeared on the WWF Tough Enough 2 album and had a successful music video.

Year of the Spider and split with Geffen (2002–2004)

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With the success of 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage, Geffen financed their third major album titled Year of the Spider, which was released on May 13, 2003 (It was slated to release in October 2002, but was pushed back). The album has been to date the band's most commercially successful album, debuting at No. 3 on the Billboard Album charts, with over 101,000 copies of the album sold in its first week of release.[Cold at AllMusic] The album's first single, "Stupid Girl," has been the only Cold single to crack the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 87.[8] Following the release of the album's second single "Suffocate" to radio stations, plans were set-forth for a video to accompany the song. However, a music video was not made due to Geffen not giving approval. The stalemate with the label led to frustrations within the band, and in January 2004 Terry Balsamo departed, replacing Ben Moody in Evanescence. Balsamo was later replaced by ex-Darwin's Waiting Room guitarist Eddie Randini, the following month.

In April 2004, guitarist Kelly Hayes quit the band as well. A week later, Hayes officially confirmed his position as the guitarist in the Jacksonville hard rock outfit Allele, a move that had been in the works from the time Terry Balsamo left the band. The band made efforts to release another single, "Wasted Years" from Year of the Spider. However, Geffen continued to not support the album any further.[citation needed]

Subsequently, in March 2004, Cold parted ways with Geffen.[9] Around this time, Cold recorded the soundtrack for the video game Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy featuring the songs "With My Mind",[10] "Came All the Way" a b-side from Year of the Spider, "Just Got Wicked (Chris Vrenna Remix)", and "Go Away (Chris Vrenna Eye Socket Remix)" and embarked on a short tour with Sevendust in support of "With My Mind", the single released from the CD. They also performed at E3 to promote the game; however, the song was never released on any of their albums.

Lava Records, A Different Kind of Pain and breakup (2004–2006)

[edit]
Cold performing in 2005

In May 2004, it was reported that Cold was considering signing with Lava Records, a division of Atlantic Records,[11] with the band officially signing to the label that July.[12] By September 2004, the band had added former member Matt Loughran and set about recording a new album. The album was to be produced by Elvis Baskette and slated to be released in December 2004. However, Cold suffered another blow with Eddie Rendini leaving the band on November 14, 2004. The new album was scheduled to be released in spring of 2005. Before releasing the album, Cold went back in the studio to record several more tracks. The album was originally to be titled And a Sad Song Lives On but was later changed to The Calm that Killed the Storm, and the release date was moved to September 13, 2005.

In June 2005, the band's official website noted yet another change to the new album's title, changing it to A Different Kind of Pain. "Happens All the Time" was the first single and video released. Just prior to shooting the video, the band added Las Vegas guitarist Mike Booth to the band. He would appear in the video and tour with them for a few months, being replaced later that fall by Florida-native Zac Gilbert. The album debuted at No. 26 on the Billboard Albums charts with more than 36,000 copies sold. A Different Kind of Pain was the beginning of a significant departure from the more radio-friendly alternative metal sound that was featured in the prior two albums.[13] The title track was released as the second single, but Atlantic did not fund another video. The majority of A Different Kind of Pain was written in Ward's sister's bedroom while she battled cancer, and is said to have been the root of the subject matter on the album.[14] Other subjects include the end of his relationship to his fiancée/mother of his daughter, and the physical abuse of a 14-year-old girl by her own father, and also had an alcoholic mother (a theme echoed from each of the three previous albums). The album has sold over 160,000 copies in the US.

On November 17, 2006, a MySpace post announced that Cold had decided to disband permanently. Ward announced that he and Sam McCandless had started a side-project called The Witch, later known as When November Falls and now known as The Killer and the Star. Shortly after forming, McCandless left the project.

Reunion and Superfiction (2008–2012)

[edit]

On July 25, 2008, a blog written by Ward on The Killer and the Star's MySpace confirmed both a b-sides/rarities release and a new Cold album featuring the original line-up, due Fall 2009.

In January 2009, Cold officially announced the first dates of its reunion tour on the band's MySpace page. When the page was originally updated, the lineup consisted of Scooter Ward, Sam McCandless, Jeremy Marshall, Kelly Hayes and Terry Balsamo. Hayes was replaced by Joe Bennett, who parted ways with Cold in July 2009 and has been replaced by former Cold guitarist Zac Gilbert. Terry Balsamo was briefly replaced by Michael Harris of Idiot Pilot, who also played bass in The Killer and the Star. After the first tour in the spring, the band went out on the road again later that summer.

Cold confirmed on their site that the album had a release in mid-July 2011.[15][16] Although initially dubbed the "final album," Ward has said on "Alternative Addiction" that Cold will continue to record and tour after the 5th album comes out.[citation needed] The first official single from Superfiction was "Wicked World".

Superfiction was released on July 18, 2011, through Eleven Seven. The album debuted at No. 37 on the Billboard 200 with 11,317 copies sold. The band had mentioned while touring that they would be including a live version of their song "Snowblind" as a hidden track on the new album, though many fans who have purchased the album noticed that there was no hidden track at all. "Snowblind" was released 8 years later, as a track on their sixth album, The Things That We Can't Stop. The second single from the album, "American Dream", was released on January 1, 2012. The music video for it was released through Eleven Seven official YouTube channel two weeks later.[17]

COLD:LIVE and departure of Jeremy Marshall (2012–2016)

[edit]

In November 2012, Scooter Ward revealed via Facebook that Cold was going to record an acoustic album of fan favorites from the first four albums, b-sides, rarities and four new songs in 2013.[18] In April 2013, Ward reported that in addition to the acoustic record a double live album was set to be recorded in May 2013 in Jacksonville.[19] Since then there was no news about the acoustic album with the recording of the live album being pushed back.

On February 7, 2014, Cold started an Indiegogo campaign for the recording of the double live album and DVD, initially titled Live in Orlando and later renamed to COLD:LIVE. The campaign ended with 167% of the goal raised. On February 28, Cold played their first gig in almost three years in Central Florida Fair with Saliva.[20]

On April 28, 2014, the show date & location for the Live DVD were announced - July 12, Jacksonville Beach, Florida. The band also performed a gig as Grundig on July 11, 2014, and re-recorded the 6-track live set (originally recorded at Furies in 1996) with intentions to release the record digitally.[21][22][23] On July 12, 2014, the band played and recorded a live concert at University of North Florida Theater of 27 songs in total,[24] including special piano/acoustic performances of "Black Sunday", "Bleed", "Cure My Tragedy" and "Rain Song" and special guest appearances such as Damien Starkey of Burn Season/Puddle of Mudd who performed "Suffocate" with the band onstage and drummer Ethan York who played on "Just Got Wicked".[25]

On November 11, 2014, the band announced via Facebook that Jeremy Marshall left Cold to pursue another band called Fall to June and was replaced by Lindsay Manfredi.[26] On January 30, 2015, former band member Eddie Rendini died.[27]

After much delay, COLD:LIVE, directed and edited by the band's former guitarist Drew Molleur, was independently released by the band on January 27, 2016, on DVD, Blu-Ray and a double CD via their official site.[28]

Line-up changes and The Things We Can't Stop and upcoming seventh studio album (2016–present)

[edit]

On March 13, 2015, it was announced that Cold signed the deal with Napalm Records to release a new album and play a worldwide tour in 2016.[29] According to a post on Cold's Facebook page on July 8, 2016, Terry Balsamo has returned to the band, and that they would begin recording their next album in August 2016.[30]

On January 1, 2017, Nick Coyle (former singer of Lifer, myDownfall and The Drama Club) announced that he joined Cold as their new guitar player.[31][32] It was later confirmed by the band.[33] On January 11, 2017, Cold entered the studio to record their new album.[34]

On January 14, 2018, vocalist Scooter Ward posted an update via the band's Facebook page that the new album has undergone the final stages of production and they will announce the album title, artwork and release date by next month. He also announced new members Ethan York and Jonny Nova to round out the new lineup. Terry Balsamo and Sam McCandless would not be a part of the new album or tour, instead electing to pursue other commitments. McCandless was working on his new project The Cocky Bitches, along with his comic book ventures.[34][35]

On June 27, 2019, Cold announced that The Things We Can't Stop, their first album in eight years, would be released on September 13, 2019. The band later started their "Broken Human Tour" to promote the album. During the tour, McCandless returned to the band taking over York's position and later re-joined the band full-time.[36][37] The band also released music videos for "Without You" on September 18, 2019, followed by "Run" on December 19, 2019, and "Quiet Now" on April 1, 2020.[38][39][40] The band later announced "A Different Kind of Tour" concerts in 2020 but was postponed due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.[41] The band would return to touring a year later, beginning in the fall of 2021. McCandless did not participate in the tour as he focused on his other ventures. Tony Kruszka would later join as their drummer in September 2021.[42]

Cold announced that they would be touring in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Year of the Spider from March - May 2023.[43] Prior to the tour, Coyle and Nova left the band on February 14, 2023 to pursue their musical ventures with Death Valley Dreams. Ed Cuozzo and Angelo Maruzzelli of University Drive joined as guitarists.[44][45] Cold would later add more dates for their Year of the Spider 20th anniversary tour through September 2023; playing only east coast dates for this leg of the tour.[46][47] The band has also been working on new material for their seventh studio album.[48] The band would later announce a tour in celebration of both 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage and A Different Kind of Pain from April to June 2025.[49] They later announced "Beneath The Low Hum Tour: A Special Evening Of Songs Reimagined" shows at City Winery locations for fall 2025, which will be joined by Sierra Swan.[50]

Musical style and influences

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Cold has been described as alternative rock,[51][52] hard rock,[51] nu metal,[53][54][55][56] alternative metal[57][58] and post-grunge.[57][59] Their musical influences include AC/DC, U2, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Black Sabbath, Rush, Queensrÿche, Tool, Radiohead, Korn and Deftones.[60][61]

Band members

[edit]

Current members

  • Scooter Ward – lead vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar (1986–2006, 2009–present)
  • Lindsay Manfredi – bass (2014–present)
  • Tony Kruszka – drums (2021–present)
  • Ed Cuozzo – lead guitar, backing vocals (2023–present)
  • Angelo Maruzzelli – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2023–present)

Former members

  • Matt Loughran – lead guitar (1986–1992, 2004–2006)
  • Jeremy Marshall – bass, backing vocals (1986–1995, 1996–2006, 2009–2014)
  • Sam McCandless – drums (1986–2006, 2009–2015, 2019–2021)
  • Sean Lay – lead guitar (1992)
  • Kelly Hayes – lead guitar (1992–2004, 2009)
  • Pat Lally – bass (1995–1996)
  • Terry Balsamo – rhythm guitar (1999–2004, 2009, 2016–2018)
  • Eddie Rendini – rhythm guitar (2004; died 2015)
  • Mike Booth – rhythm guitar, keyboards (2005)
  • Zac Gilbert – rhythm guitar (2005–2006), lead guitar (2005–2006, 2009–2016)
  • Joe Bennett – lead guitar (2009)
  • Michael Harris – rhythm guitar (2009)
  • Drew Molleur – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2010–2016)
  • Ethan York – drums (2017–2019)
  • Nick Coyle – lead guitar, backing vocals (2017–2023), keyboards (2021–2023)
  • Jonny Nova – rhythm guitar (2018–2023), programming (2021–2023)

Timeline

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Cold discography

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Cold (band)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Cold is an American post-grunge and alternative rock band formed in 1986 in Jacksonville, Florida, by vocalist and rhythm guitarist Scooter Ward, with the group initially emerging from local scene influences in the mid-1980s and renaming to Cold around 1996. Known for their heavy, melodic sound blending introspective lyrics with aggressive riffs, Cold achieved commercial breakthrough in the early 2000s through albums like 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage (2000), which propelled singles such as "Just Got Wicked" and "No One," and Year of the Spider (2003), featuring the hit "Stupid Girl," both earning gold certifications in the United States. The band's core lineup in its breakthrough years included Ward alongside drummer Sam McCandless, bassist Jeremy Marshall, and lead guitarist Kelly Hayes, though it has undergone several changes, with Ward remaining the sole constant member and primary songwriter. Cold's discography spans six studio albums, including their self-titled debut (1998), (2005), Superfiction (2011), and (2019), collectively selling over 1 million copies in the United States. Notable tracks like "No One," "Just Got Wicked," and "Happens All the Time" exemplify their evolution from nu-metal-adjacent roots to more atmospheric , often featuring collaborations with artists such as of on "Bleed." Despite lineup shifts and label challenges, including a hiatus from 2006 to 2009, has maintained a dedicated fanbase and continues to tour actively, with recent efforts celebrating anniversaries of their breakthrough records and Ward confirming a seventh studio album in development for 2026. The band's resilience is highlighted by their independent releases and ongoing live performances, solidifying their place in the landscape.

History

Formation and early years (1986–1997)

Cold was founded in 1986 in , initially under the name by vocalist and rhythm guitarist and drummer Sam McCandless. The band drew from the local music scene, adopting a slow, grungy sound influenced by acts like and , reflecting the diverse rock environment of the area. Ward, who had begun playing piano and guitar as a child, partnered with McCandless after discovering his drumming in a garage setting, marking the start of their creative collaboration. Throughout the early 1990s, Grundig experienced lineup shifts, including the addition of lead guitarist Kelly Hayes in 1995, alongside bassists and other members who came and went. The group released independent material, such as an eight-song EP titled Into Everything in 1992, and performed locally while building a following through demo tapes and club shows in the Jacksonville area. Ward recorded a simple acoustic two-song demo during this period, which circulated and caught attention within the regional scene. Facing challenges, including a temporary , the band reemerged in 1995 as Diablo before settling on the name in 1996 to avoid issues with the original moniker, which conflicted with a German audio company. This reformation solidified the core lineup around Ward and McCandless, with Hayes continuing on guitar. Local , amplified by early supporters like of who encountered their demos, led to increased interest from the music industry. In 1997, at Durst's urging, Cold signed with Flip Records and , transitioning from independent struggles to professional opportunities amid the rising nu-metal wave in .

Debut album and breakthrough (1998–2002)

Cold's self-titled debut was released on June 2, 1998, via Flip Records and , marking the band's entry into the major-label scene. Produced by at Indigo Ranch Studios in , the record blended aggression with introspective lyrics, featuring tracks like "Go Away" and "Give" as its lead singles. These songs showcased frontman Scooter Ward's raw vocal delivery over heavy riffs and melodic hooks, drawing comparisons to bands like Nirvana and Korn. Despite critical nods for its emotional intensity, the album struggled commercially, hampered by limited promotion after A&M Records' operations were shuttered in January 1999 as part of Universal Music Group's merger with Interscope and Geffen. The label's closure disrupted marketing efforts, resulting in modest sales and minimal chart presence for the band. This setback prompted Cold to seek new opportunities, ultimately signing with Geffen Records later that year. Under Geffen, Cold recorded their sophomore effort, 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage, produced by David Bascombe at Amethyst Digital in and Studio X in . Released on September 12, 2000, the album refined the band's sound with polished production, emphasizing atmospheric guitars and Ward's confessional themes of pain and isolation. Breakthrough singles "Just Got Wicked" and "Bleed" gained traction through heavy rotation on rock radio stations within the nu-metal circuit, propelling the record to wider audiences. The album's success was solidified by its RIAA gold certification on June 13, 2001, for 500,000 units shipped in the U.S., establishing Cold's foothold in mainstream rock. Extensive touring amplified this momentum, including opening slots on Limp Bizkit's 2000 Napster-sponsored tour alongside and the 2001 K-Rock Tour, where the band honed their live energy and connected with nu-metal fans. These experiences, combined with radio support, transformed Cold from underground act to recognized players in the early rock landscape.

Year of the Spider and label tensions (2002–2004)

Following the breakthrough success of their previous album, Cold entered the studio to record their third major-label effort, , which was released on May 13, 2003, through . The album was produced by Johnny K at Groovemaster Studios in , incorporating a shift toward darker lyrical themes and more melodic structures while retaining the band's and core. Debuting at No. 3 on the chart, eventually achieved gold certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000 units in the United States. The , "Stupid Girl," marked a re-release with renewed promotion and became the band's only entry on the , peaking at No. 87 after 12 weeks on the chart. A second single, "Cure My Tragedy (A Letter to God)," followed, emphasizing the album's introspective and emotional depth, though it did not chart as highly on mainstream lists. These tracks highlighted the band's evolving sound, blending aggressive riffs with atmospheric elements to explore themes of loss and redemption. To support the album, Cold embarked on an extensive touring schedule in 2003, including 31 dates on the alongside acts like Chevelle and , as well as eight shows on the Open Your Eyes Tour. However, growing frustrations with Geffen emerged over creative control and promotional strategies, as the label's approach clashed with the band's vision for emphasizing their artistic direction rather than commercial priorities. Frontman publicly stated that the disagreements centered on promotion, noting, "Geffen and Cold had a disagreement on how to promote our band. They wouldn't do what we wanted so we asked if they would let us go." These tensions culminated in the band's departure from Geffen in March , after the album fell short of the label's sales expectations despite its strong initial performance and . The split exacerbated internal band dynamics, contributing to lineup instability as members grappled with the fallout from unmet commercial goals and shifting priorities.

A Different Kind of Pain and breakup (2004–2006)

Following their departure from , Cold signed with , an imprint of , in July 2004. The band began work on their fourth studio album, , which was recorded at in , and produced by Michael "Elvis" Baskette. Released on August 30, 2005, the album marked a shift toward a more and somber sound, reflecting frontman Scooter Ward's personal turmoil, including the death of his sister from cancer, the end of his engagement, and his battles with . These experiences infused the with themes of loss, , , and emotional recovery, as Ward channeled his pain into songs that explored vulnerability and resilience. The album featured 11 tracks, with lead single "Happens All the Time" released in advance to promote its radio-friendly edge, followed by "A Different Kind of Pain" and promotional pushes for "Another Pill," which directly addressed themes of medication and . Despite the emotional depth, A Different Kind of Pain debuted at No. 26 on the chart, selling approximately 36,000 copies in its first week—a moderate performance that paled in comparison to the commercial success of their prior release, Year of the Spider, which had debuted at No. 3 and sold over 500,000 units. Overall sales remained underwhelming, failing to recapture the band's earlier momentum amid shifting trends and limited label support. As touring progressed, internal tensions escalated, exacerbated by Ward's ongoing substance abuse issues and strains within the lineup, including creative differences and personal burnout after nearly two decades together. These conflicts, combined with the album's disappointing reception, led to mounting pressure on the band. In February 2006, Ward initially announced the group's disbandment via an online statement, citing exhaustion and the need for a break, though he retracted it in April amid fan support. However, by November 17, 2006, Ward confirmed the official breakup on the band's MySpace page, stating that the members were pursuing individual paths, with Ward focusing on his solo project, The Killer and the Star. The dissolution ended Cold's initial run, leaving a legacy of raw emotional rock amid unresolved personal and professional challenges.

Reunion and Superfiction era (2008–2012)

Following their breakup in 2006, Cold announced their reunion in July 2008, initially planning a tour for early that evolved into a full comeback driven by persistent fan demand and sold-out shows signaling strong support. The original core members—vocalist and guitarist , bassist Jeremy Marshall, and drummer Sam McCandless—reconvened, joined by guitarists Brian Malone and Nick Coyle to refresh the lineup for the revival. The band self-released their fifth studio , Superfiction, on July 19, 2011, through the independent label Eleven Seven Music, marking their return after a five-year hiatus from new material. Ward served as alongside co-producers Jeremy Parker and , with recording completed at studios in , and over approximately one month. The emphasized a return to the band's heavier, roots, featuring aggressive riffs and introspective lyrics exploring themes of heroism and personal struggle, a shift from the more acoustic leanings of their prior release. Promotion centered on digital platforms and live performances, with singles including "What Happens Now" (tied to soundtrack) and "Wicked World" driving early buzz through online streaming and radio play. Cold supported the album with a U.S. tour in 2011, including headline shows and opening slots alongside acts like Egypt Central, while leveraging fan engagement via artwork accompanying each track to enhance the narrative experience. Despite the constraints of independent distribution limiting mainstream retail reach, Superfiction received positive critical feedback for its renewed energy and revitalized sound, debuting at No. 41 on the and No. 5 on the Top Rock Albums chart, affirming the band's enduring appeal.

Live releases and interim changes (2012–2016)

Following the success of their 2011 album Superfiction, Cold shifted focus to documenting their live performances, culminating in the release of the live album COLD:LIVE on , 2016. The recording captured a February 2014 concert at the Andrew A. Robinson Jr. Theater in , featuring tracks from across their discography and highlighting the band's raw stage energy during their supporting tours from 2012 onward. Funded through a successful 2014 crowdfunding campaign that raised over $75,000, the Blu-ray/DVD and audio set showcased performances of staples like "Stupid Girl" and "Just Got Wicked," providing fans with a comprehensive archive of the era's touring intensity. The period also marked significant lineup instability, beginning with the departure of founding bassist Jeremy Marshall on November 11, 2014. Marshall, who had been with the band since its inception in 1986, left due to creative differences, as explained by frontman in an official announcement on the band's page. Ward expressed appreciation for Marshall's contributions while noting the need for a fresh dynamic. Immediately following the exit, Cold welcomed Lindsay Manfredi as Marshall's replacement, with the band using temporary bassists for select shows during the transition to maintain their touring commitments. Throughout 2014 and 2015, Cold engaged in sporadic touring, including a recorded performance at the on July 12, 2014, and various festival and club appearances that kept the band active despite the changes. This transitional phase placed the group in a quasi-hiatus, with reduced activity allowing Ward to concentrate on songwriting amid uncertainty over the band's long-term direction. Ward later reflected on this time as a period of , using it to explore new material while questioning the group's viability without its original core members.

The Things We Can't Stop and revival (2016–2020)

Following the transitional period of lineup adjustments in the mid-2010s, Cold achieved greater stability in 2016 when guitarist rejoined the band in July, contributing to songwriting and recording sessions for their next project. This reunion marked a return to a core creative dynamic from the band's earlier years, helping to solidify the group's direction after years of intermittent activity. Balsamo's involvement lasted through 2018, providing a bridge to the album's completion. The band recorded their sixth studio album, , over several sessions, with drums and bass tracked at Equinox Studios in Phoenix under engineer Jeremy Parker, while additional elements were captured at Scooter Ward's home studio in and in remote locations. Released on September 13, 2019, via , the album was co-produced and mixed by Ward and guitarist Nick Coyle, blending introspective, emotionally raw lyrics with cinematic production influenced by artists like The National and . Ward described the process as therapeutic, drawing from personal tragedies to explore themes of , loss, and resilience, stating, "When you listen to this, if you're going through something tragic, maybe you can take a small bit of hope that you're not alone." The lineup for the release featured Ward on vocals, , , and keyboards; Coyle on guitar, keys, and backing vocals; Lindsay Manfredi; and Aaron Fulton. Lead single "Shine," released on June 27, 2019, addressed Ward's experiences with childhood and , serving as an uplifting of triumph. Additional singles included "Without You" in July 2019, which questioned blind faith amid doubt, and a reimagined acoustic version of the band's earlier hit "Stupid Girl" later in the promotion cycle. These tracks highlighted the album's diaristic style, with Ward noting the need for real-life struggles to fuel his creativity: "I needed life to happen to be able to create." While specific chart positions were modest, "Shine" gained radio play and underscored Cold's return to form. The album received praise for its emotional depth and hook-laden sound, reestablishing the band's presence in . Cold's touring resurgence began in earnest in 2019 with the "Broken Human Tour," a 34-date U.S. run supporting the album, followed by opening slots for on select dates, including a performance at The Pavilion at Montage Mountain in August. This marked the band's first major headlining effort in eight years, reconnecting with fans through a setlist blending new material like "Shine" and "Quiet Now" with classics such as "Stupid Girl" and "Just Got Wicked." The momentum built a renewed fanbase, but the abruptly halted live shows in early 2020, canceling planned spring dates for the "A Different Kind of Tour." This pause, however, allowed Ward and the band to shift focus inward, writing and developing ideas for future releases amid the global disruptions.

Recent tours and upcoming album (2021–present)

In 2021, Cold updated their lineup with Tony Kruszka joining on drums, while Lindsay Manfredi continued on bass, a role she had held since 2014. By 2023, Ed Cuozzo had joined as lead guitarist and backing vocalist, and Angelo Maruzzelli as rhythm guitarist, forming the current touring configuration alongside vocalist . This lineup supported the band's return to live performances following the . To mark the 20th anniversary of their 2003 album , Cold embarked on a North American tour from March 17, 2023, in , to May 29, 2023, in Cleveland, Ohio, performing the album in full each night with support from acts like Divide The Fall and Awake For Days. The tour extended with additional East Coast dates from September 5 to September 16, 2023, allowing fans further opportunities to experience the complete album set. In spring 2025, the band launched a headlining U.S. tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of their 2001 album 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage and the 20th anniversary of their 2006 release A Different Kind of Pain, running from April 3 in Cleveland, Ohio, to June 1 in Covington, Kentucky. The shows featured full performances of both albums, with a mid-set break, and included support from bands such as Edisun. The band completed the spring 2025 tour as scheduled, followed by the "Beneath The Low Hum Tour: A Special Evening of Songs Reimagined," which concluded on November 9, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. Cold announced the "Beneath The Low Hum Tour: A Special Evening of Songs Reimagined" for fall 2025, a series of intimate shows at City Winery venues featuring reinterpreted tracks from their catalog, accompanied by pianist . The tour, described as a one-time event blending rock with piano arrangements, begins in September 2025 and includes stops in cities like , , and New York. As of April 2025, frontman confirmed that the band is actively writing material for their seventh studio album, targeted for a 2026 release, building on the creative momentum from their 2019 effort . Ward emphasized ongoing songwriting sessions, signaling a return to original material after focusing on anniversary celebrations.

Musical style and influences

Musical style

Cold's music is primarily rooted in , with prominent influences from , , and , often characterized by heavy, distorted guitar riffs paired with anthemic, melodic choruses that balance aggression and accessibility. This sonic foundation emerged prominently in their early releases, where the band's sound drew from the raw energy of late-1990s rock, emphasizing emotional intensity over technical complexity. Central to Cold's identity is the vocal performance of frontman , whose style spans aggressive screams and growls in verses to soaring, clean, emotive in choruses, creating a dynamic contrast that heightens the music's emotional impact. Thematically, the band's frequently delve into personal turmoil, including pain, , and , drawing from Ward's own experiences to convey raw vulnerability and resilience. Instrumentally, Cold employs a core rock setup of heavily distorted electric guitars, prominent driving bass lines, and versatile drumming that shifts from pounding rhythms to subtle builds, fostering a sense of tension and release. In their mid-period work, such as the album , the band expanded this palette by incorporating orchestral strings arranged by Deborah Lurie, introducing atmospheric layers that added depth and cinematic quality to their otherwise gritty sound. Throughout their discography, Cold's style evolved from the visceral, high-energy aggression of their debut era toward more polished and introspective arrangements in later albums, maintaining melodic hooks while exploring broader sonic textures.

Influences

Cold's music draws heavily from the grunge and alternative rock scenes of the 1990s, with lead singer Scooter Ward citing influences such as Nirvana and Alice in Chains, particularly the dark, introspective artistry of Kurt Cobain and Layne Staley, which inspired tracks like "The Day Seattle Died" on the album Year of the Spider (2003). Ward has also referenced grunge bands including Soundgarden as shaping the band's early heavy, emotive sound. Additionally, the group incorporated elements from the emerging nu-metal and industrial landscapes, reflecting broader connections to the Jacksonville rock scene alongside acts like Limp Bizkit. Ward's lyrical content is deeply informed by personal hardships, including his sister's prolonged battle with cancer, which permeates songs like "Cure My Tragedy" from , where he pleads for her suffering to be transferred to him. His own struggles with , detailed in tracks such as "Snowblind" and "Insane," stem from a decade-long battle that influenced much of the band's raw, confessional style during the early . These experiences, compounded by early health issues like , infused Cold's work with themes of pain, loss, and resilience. The band's influences extend to classic and alternative rock staples, with Ward expressing admiration for The Cure, Depeche Mode, and Tool, contributing to the atmospheric and electronic undertones in their debut self-titled album (1998). Band members have also drawn from 1970s hard rock acts like AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath, aiming for a timeless, heavy edge in recordings like 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage (2000). Punk roots trace back to Ward's formative years, inspired by Bad Brains and Misfits, which added an aggressive, raw energy to Cold's foundational sound. Over time, Cold's influences evolved toward more melodic and introspective territories, as seen in later albums like Superfiction (2011), which shifted to narrative-driven songs, and The Things We Can't Stop (2019), where Ward credited Nick Cave's documentary One More Time with Feeling for reigniting his creativity and emphasizing emotional depth in lyrics addressing addiction and bullying. This progression reflects a move from visceral grunge-infused heaviness to broader alternative explorations, maintaining the band's core focus on personal catharsis.

Band members

Current members

As of November 2025, the active lineup of Cold consists of five members who have been performing together on the band's ongoing tours, including the Beneath the Low Hum Tour. serves as the band's founder, lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and keyboardist, having been involved since forming the group in 1986. Lindsay Manfredi has been the bassist since 2014, contributing to recordings and live performances following the band's reunion era. Tony Kruszka joined as the drummer in 2021, providing the rhythmic foundation for recent albums and tours. Ed Cuozzo took on and backing vocals duties starting in 2023, bringing experience from his prior work with University Drive. Angelo Maruzzelli has been the rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist since 2023, also hailing from University Drive and enhancing the band's dual-guitar sound.

Former members

Cold has undergone several lineup changes since its formation, with numerous musicians contributing to its recordings and tours over nearly four decades. Key former members include co-founder Sam McCandless, who served as the band's drummer from 1986 to 2008 and played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of their early albums, including the self-titled debut (1998) and 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage (2001). McCandless, the only original member besides frontman Scooter Ward until the band's 2006 breakup, did not participate in the 2009 reunion. Jeremy Marshall, a founding member of the band's post-1997 incarnation, handled bass duties from 1998 to 2014, providing the rhythmic foundation for albums such as (2003) and (2006); he was the longest-tenured bassist until his departure in November 2014 to pursue other projects, including the band Fall To June. The early lineup also featured guitarist Kelly Hayes, who contributed to the band's initial recordings from 1995 to 2004, appearing on the debut album and helping establish Cold's post-grunge style. During the reunion era, guitarist Zac Gilbert joined in 2009 and remained until 2016, participating in the recording and promotion of Superfiction (2011). Nick Coyle served as an interim guitarist from 2015 to 2016, bridging the gap during a period of transition. Guitarist Terry Balsamo was part of the lineup from 2004 to 2008, contributing during the A Different Kind of Pain era. Additionally, guitarist Joe Bennett provided support in 2009.

Discography

Studio albums

Cold's debut studio album, Cold, was released on June 20, 1998, through . Featuring tracks such as "Go Away" (with guest vocals by of ) and "Give," the album highlighted the band's early sound but achieved limited commercial success, peaking at number 199 on the . The band's second album, 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage, arrived on September 12, 2000, via Flip Records and . It marked a , reaching number 98 on the and earning gold certification from the RIAA for shipments of 500,000 units. Key singles included "Just Got Wicked," "Stupid Girl," and "End of the World," which propelled the band on major tours including . Year of the Spider, the third studio release, came out on May 13, 2003, under Flip and , produced by Johnny K and the band at NRG Studios in . The debuted at number 3 on the with first-week sales of over 101,000 copies and was later certified by the RIAA. Standout tracks like "Stupid Girl" and "A Cure for Me" emphasized the band's evolving nu-metal influences. In 2005, Cold issued on August 30 through , peaking at number 26 on the 200. The album explored darker, more introspective themes of loss and emotional struggle, reflecting personal challenges faced by frontman , with singles such as "Happens All the Time" (which peaked at #1 on Mainstream Rock) and "A Different Kind of Pain." After a period of lineup changes and label transitions, the band released Superfiction independently on July 19, 2011, via Eleven Seven Music. It entered the at number 37, showcasing a return to heavier riffs and themes of reinvention, led by the single "Wicked World." Cold's sixth studio album, , was released on September 13, 2019, through , debuting at number 1 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart and number 32 on the . The record addressed contemporary social issues and personal resilience, with notable tracks including "Shine" and "No Reason."

Live albums and EPs

Cold's output in live albums and EPs has been selective, focusing on promotional material in their early years and a fan-supported live recording later in their career. The Oddity EP, released in on Flip Records as a promotional CD, marked Cold's initial foray into formats. This five-track release featured an edited version of the single "Go Away" with guest vocals by of , a titled "Go Away (Eye Socket Remix)," the original demo "," a cover of David Bowie's "," and another edit of "Go Away." Produced by , the EP highlighted the band's raw style and helped generate buzz prior to their debut studio album, emphasizing themes of alienation and introspection through heavy riffs and emotional vocals. Cold Live, a double live album, was recorded on February 8, 2014, at the Andrew A. Robinson Theater in , during a special hometown performance. Crowdfunded through in 2014, raising over $75,000 from fans, the album was released independently on January 27, 2016, in audio, DVD, and Blu-ray formats. Spanning 20 tracks drawn from across the band's catalog—including staples like "Give," "Stupid Girl," "Just Got Wicked," and "No One"—it captured Cold's post-reunion intensity and setlist variety from their 2012-2014 touring era, serving as a testament to their enduring fanbase and live prowess amid lineup changes. The release did not chart but underscored the band's shift toward direct fan engagement.

Singles

Cold's singles have largely targeted rock radio audiences, achieving their greatest commercial impact on Billboard's Mainstream Rock and charts during the early 2000s. The band's breakthrough came with tracks from their albums 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage (2000) and (2003), which produced multiple radio hits that helped establish their presence in the and scenes. Although none of their singles received RIAA certifications, several garnered significant airplay and sales, contributing to the gold status of their associated albums. Key singles include "No One" from 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage, released in 2001, which peaked at number 17 on the Mainstream Rock chart and number 13 on the Alternative Airplay chart. "Just Got Wicked," also from 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage and released in 2002, served as a promotional single emphasizing the band's aggressive sound, though it did not enter the Billboard Hot 100. "Stupid Girl," the lead single from Year of the Spider released in 2003, became Cold's highest-charting track on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 87, while topping out at number 4 on Mainstream Rock and number 6 on Alternative Airplay. Follow-up singles from the same album, "Suffocate" (2003) peaked at number 17 on Mainstream Rock and number 21 on Alternative Airplay. From , the title track peaked at number 35 on Mainstream Rock and number 38 on , reflecting a shift toward more introspective themes. "Happens All the Time," another single from this album, peaked at number 1 on Mainstream Rock. Later releases include "Wicked World" from Superfiction (2011), focusing on digital promotion without significant chart entries, and "Shine" in 2019 as the from , addressing themes of and resilience; it was promoted via streaming platforms but did not chart on rock surveys. Recent singles include "Check Please" (2020). Overall, the band's 14 singles span from 1997 to the present, with early releases representing their peak radio dominance.
SingleRelease YearAlbumHot 100 PeakMainstream Rock PeakAlternative Airplay Peak
Stupid Girl2003#87#4#6
No One200113 Ways to Bleed on Stage—#17#13
Suffocate2003—#17#21
A Different Kind of Pain2005—#35#38

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