The keys of a piano are always enticing. The way their chords pierce through the silence and harmonize to form a luscious cloud of noise and reverence. Slowly and steadily the phrases they create form a picture that can engage an audience without words or dialogue. When there are words, the piano can complement the lyrics and make a statement that much more eloquent. When a band utilizes this most precious tool to their advantage it can convey an entirely new message to their sound and lyrics. This week’s Live and Otherwise pick goes to California’s Cold War Kids (CWK). With a deeper melodic sound and rich vocals, these guys have concocted a smooth dosing of indie rock harmony. Out on the road promoting their most recent record, “Mine is Yours,” CWK makes it to the Valley this week to make their splendid sound heard amongst the desert heat. The many catchy riffs that CWK brings across so well are sure to be as gripping as their recorded material, which spans a number of EP’s and three full length releases. Lead singer Nathan Willett’s voice will undoubtedly be as smooth on stage as off. Cold War Kids will be at the Marquee Theater in Tempe tomorrow night. Tickets are $18. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Here are my picks from them: