What makes Tuxedos by Cold War Kids notable?

The EP received positive reviews for its lyrical depth and sonic evolution, with critics noting its departure from earlier works. It helped solidify Cold War Kids' reputation as significant contributors to the indie rock scene, further expanding their audience by reaching charts in multiple countries. Tuxedos is the fourth EP by Cold War Kids, released in 2013 after their successful album Dear Miss Lonelyhearts. At this point, the band was navigating a transition in sound, moving towards more polished production while maintaining their signature storytelling style. This release came three years after their last full-length album and marked a period of experimentation in their approach to songwriting and arrangements.

Tuxedos works well if you're into short energetic listening bursts, heartfelt melodies for reflection and dynamic instrumentation with emotional weight.

How many songs are on Tuxedos?

Tuxedos has 6 tracks, running approximately 20 minutes.

Tuxedos

Cold War Kids · 2013

20 min · 6 tracks · alternative rock

A mix of soulful melodies and raw indie rock energy, Tuxedos showcases introspective lyrics set against dynamic instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Tuxedos — The title track opens the EP with a compelling exploration of vulnerability and identity, encapsulating the overarching themes present throughout the record.
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You Don’t Come Through — This track features an infectious chorus and poignant lyrics about longing and disappointment, making it a standout example of the band's lyrical craftsmanship.
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Pine St. — With its stripped-back arrangement, this song highlights the band's ability to convey emotional weight through simplicity, showcasing a different side of their sound.

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 standout tracks that elevate it significantly.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a steady drumbeat and layered guitar lines that set a soulful tone, which is maintained through the EP.
Each song features a prominent use of call-and-response vocals, creating an engaging dynamic between the lead singer and backing harmonies.
The final track shifts to a more subdued arrangement, featuring minimal instrumentation that contrasts with the earlier tracks' energy.

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 3/10

Known within its scene. 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 energetic listening bursts
heartfelt melodies for reflection
dynamic instrumentation with emotional weight
front-loaded excitement and engagement

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, drawn-out albums
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — This EP represents a deliberate shift in sound for the band.
Career context: Tuxedos is the fourth EP by Cold War Kids, released in 2013 after their successful album Dear Miss Lonelyhearts. At this point, the band was navigating a transition in sound, moving towards more polished production while maintaining their signature storytelling style. This release came three years after their last full-length album and marked a period of experimentation in their approach to songwriting and arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Band of Horses· The National· Modest Mouse