Cardiff-based rock outfit James and the Cold Gun —dubbed “South Wales’ loudest group” — have shared a video for their introspective new track, “Above The Lake,” which Kerrang! called “Foo Fighters-esque” and “killer.” Watch + share via YouTube. The single is featured on their much-anticipated sophomore album Face in the Mirror, set for release on April 25 via Loosegroove Records. The band will celebrate with select UK gigs [all dates below].
Produced by the band and mixed by in-demand producer Brendan O’Brien (Soundgarden, My Morning Jacket, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stone Temple Pilots), Face in the Mirror was recorded at Seattle’s iconic Studio Litho and The Garage. The album marks a major leap forward for the band, showcasing their exhilarating growth while maintaining the raw energy that has earned them rave reviews from NME, Rock Sound, BBC Radio One, KEXP, and more.
“James and the Cold Gun are a shot of pure adrenaline,” says Pearl Jam guitarist and Loosegroove co-founder Stone Gossard, who immediately signed the band after hearing them on KEXP and recognizing their undeniable potential. “Above The Lake” is a perfect example of this raw energy.
Lead guitarist James B steps up to deliver lead vocals, offering a performance that’s both introspective and undeniably catchy. The track doesn’t overcomplicate things; it’s straightforward, with a groove that sticks with you long after the song ends. James’ voice adds a unique sweetness that deepens the track’s emotional resonance. Musically, “Above The Lake” channels the same raw energy you’d expect from Foo Fighters’ In Your Honor, but in a more stripped-back, no-frills way. The rhythm hits hard, and the melodies are simple yet unforgettable, making it a standout moment in the band’s fast-evolving sound.
Face In The Mirror blends garage-driven rock with introspective moments. The standout track “Guessing Games” (currently featured in a national UK Taco Bell advert), captures the band’s power, fusing classic Britpop and rock influences, with infectious hooks and a driving rhythm. From the thrashing energy of “Cut the Breaks” to the reflective title track, the album highlights the band’s evolving sound and dynamic musical landscape.
Having gone from writing songs in a Cardiff garage to performing in front of massive crowds in less than three years, the band’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of spectacular. Their rise has been fueled by a relentless energy on and off the stage, and the forthcoming Face In The Mirror album captures this frenetic drive in a way that is both thrilling and captivating.
Following the success of their earlier singles, the band’s profile has been steadily rising. From their inclusion in Apple Music’s Rockstars of 2023 Predictions to playing sold-out shows with Duff McKagan, Highly Suspect and Thunderpussy, as well as supporting Pearl Jam and Guns N’ Roses at London’s Hyde Park, James and the Cold Gun are quickly becoming one of rock’s most electrifying new acts.
Tour Dates:
04/23 – Cardiff, UK @ Clwb Ifor Bach
04/25 – Newcastle, UK @ head of Steam
04/27 – Glasgow, UK @ Attic Bar, The Garage
04/28 – Manchester, UK @ YES Basement
04/29 – Camden, UK @ Camden Assembly
