What makes Behave Yourself by Cold War Kids notable?

Behave Yourself received critical acclaim for its earnest lyricism and innovative structure, charting in the Top 10 of Billboard's Heatseekers Albums. The EP also played a pivotal role in expanding the band's audience, paving the way for future projects and solidifying their position within the alternative rock genre. Released in early 2010, Behave Yourself marked a transitional phase for Cold War Kids following their breakthrough album Loyalty to Loyalty. The EP showcases the band's evolving sound, as they experiment with shorter songs while maintaining their signature storytelling approach. This release came just after a period of intense touring and solidified their presence in the indie rock scene.

Who is Behave Yourself for?

Behave Yourself works well if you're into short bursts of energetic fun, for quick listens and front-loaded with catchy hooks.

How many songs are on Behave Yourself?

Behave Yourself has 5 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Behave Yourself

Cold War Kids · 2010

14 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A gritty blend of raw emotion and indie rock flair, reflecting personal struggles and societal observations.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Coffee Spoon — This track stands out with its reflective lyrics and evocative imagery, exploring themes of longing and connection through intimate storytelling.
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Santa Ana Winds — The song captures a sense of urgency and restlessness, using vivid imagery to convey the emotional weight of personal and external turmoil.
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Sermons — With its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, this track delves into themes of faith and doubt, showcasing the band's lyrical depth compellingly.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The final track ends with a gradual fade-out, leaving an open-ended feeling that contrasts with the preceding songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short bursts of energetic fun
for quick listens
front-loaded with catchy hooks
great for upbeat gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer long, immersive albums
seek deep, introspective moments

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases an evolving sound distinct from earlier works, reflecting a transitional phase.
Career context: Released in early 2010, Behave Yourself marked a transitional phase for Cold War Kids following their breakthrough album Loyalty to Loyalty. The EP showcases the band's evolving sound, as they experiment with shorter songs while maintaining their signature storytelling approach. This release came just after a period of intense touring and solidified their presence in the indie rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Band of Horses· The National· Modest Mouse