What makes We Used to Vacation by Cold War Kids notable?

The album received positive critical acclaim, particularly for its unique sound and lyrical depth, helping to elevate Cold War Kids within the indie rock genre. It has since influenced a wave of indie bands that emerged in the late 2000s, showcasing a blend of emotive storytelling and eclectic instrumentation. We Used to Vacation marks the debut album for Cold War Kids, released in early 2006 just after their formation in 2004. The band was gaining momentum in the indie scene, having established themselves through local performances and an EP, which laid the groundwork for this full release.

How many songs are on We Used to Vacation?

We Used to Vacation has 4 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

We Used to Vacation

Cold War Kids · 2006

17 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A raw blend of alternative and indie rock infused with jagged rhythms and introspective lyrics that explore themes of nostalgia and disconnection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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We Used to Vacation — The title track encapsulates the album's exploration of personal relationships marked by nostalgia and regret, featuring a catchy yet haunting melody that draws listeners in.
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Expensive Tastes — This track highlights the band's ability to merge sharp lyrical commentary on consumerism with infectious melodies, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Quiet, Please! — This song showcases the band's dynamic range, blending quieter introspection with explosive choruses that reflect the tension between inner thoughts and external chaos.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and emotional depth while maintaining a cohesive sound throughout.

What we noticed

The opening track features a driving rhythm with syncopated guitar riffs that set a tense mood.
Lyrically, the tracks explore themes of nostalgia and disconnection, with a focus on personal storytelling.
The EP maintains a raw production quality that emphasizes the emotional weight of the vocals.

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

Influence 4/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This EP helped establish Cold War Kids' reputation in the indie rock scene.
Career context: We Used to Vacation marks the debut album for Cold War Kids, released in early 2006 just after their formation in 2004. The band was gaining momentum in the indie scene, having established themselves through local performances and an EP, which laid the groundwork for this full release.
Stylistic neighbors: Band of Horses· The National· Modest Mouse