It’s kind of strange finally sitting down to review the new record from COLD GAWD. I’ve already experienced these songs live, and we’ve been listening to it for months. These songs have played a big part in my 2024. I’ll Drown On This Earth is out now via Dais Records — get it here — and while it’s their second release on Dais, it’s kind of their Dais debut. And I didn’t think anything would push God Get Me The Fuck Out of Here out of its top spot but that’s exactly what I’ll Drown On This Earth has done.
They’re still heavy as fuck shoegaze, with ethereal melodies and dense basslines and spacious riffs and expansive fuzzy atmosphere. But this record brings more playful energy with it, with delicate breakdowns, soaring melodic rock riffs, and r&b rhythms.
It’s nearly impossible for me to pick a favorite track off this record. “Gorgeous” kicks it off, and I’ve loved this song from the first time I saw them play it live. It’s got a joyous kind of rage to it, but also a mournful gratitude. The guitar tones on “All My Life, My Heart Has Yearned For A Thing I Cannot Name” send shivers down my spine and bring tears to my eyes. I think that one might be my favorite. But then “Nudism” engulfs me in a quiet sonic reflection and wraps me up in melancholy piano and I’m lost in it. Basically this album is perfection from start to finish. Give it a listen below. And make sure you catch them on tour this November, dates here:
COLD GAWD live dates:
November 2 Seattle, WA @ Vera Project ^
November 3 Portland, OR @ Polaris Hall ^
November 4 Corvallis, OR @ C3 Ballroom ^
November 6 San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill ^
November 7 Los Angeles, CA @ El Cid ^
November 8 Phoenix, AZ @ Nile Underground ^
November 9 Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad ^
November 11 Austin, TX @ Empire Control Room ^
^ w/ Gouge Away
