The Broken Goblet in Bensalem, PA, became a vortex of raw excitement and powerful riffs, as the iconic post-grunge band Cold delivered a blistering performance to a packed house. The energy in the room was intense, a tangible buzz of anticipation for a night dedicated to celebrating two pivotal albums in the band's discography: the 25th anniversary of their breakthrough, 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage, and the 20th anniversary of the intensely personal A Different Kind of Pain.
From the moment the lights dimmed and the familiar, haunting intro of "Back Home" filled the venue, the crowd erupted. Scooter Ward, the band's enigmatic frontman, commanded the stage with his signature blend of vulnerability and intensity. His voice, powerful and instantly recognizable, soared through the room, carrying the weight of years of experience into the lyrics.
The setlist was a unique journey through Cold's history, heavily leaning into the anniversary albums. Tracks from 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage like the anthemic "No One" and the darkly melodic "Bleed" were met with fervent singalongs, the audience clearly relishing the chance to revisit these formative tracks. The band, featuring the dynamic rhythm section of Lindsay Manfredi on bass and Tony Kruzska on drums, provided a tight and driving foundation for Ward's vocals. The intricate guitar work of Ed Cuozzo and Angelo Maruzzelli provided strong textural layers and searing solos. The camaraderie among the band members was unmistakable, with each musician feeding off the other's energy, creating a cohesive and captivating performance.
The celebration of A Different Kind of Pain brought a distinct introspection to the evening. Songs like the powerful "Happens All the Time" and the rawness of "When Angels Fly Away" showcased the album's darker, more personal themes. Ward's delivery during these tracks was particularly poignant, his voice laced with the same anguish and honesty that defined the album two decades ago. The connection between the band and the audience felt deeply personal during these moments, a shared liberation through the music.
The intimate venue proved to be the perfect backdrop for this show, allowing for a direct connection between the band and their devoted fanbase, creating an atmosphere of shared passion. Ward interacted with the crowd, offering brief anecdotes and expressing his gratitude for their continued support over the years. The band didn’t shy away from sprinkling in fan favorites from their other releases as well, helping to maintain the high energy flow that permeated throughout the night.
Ultimately, Cold's performance at the Broken Goblet was a celebration of resilience, artistic evolution, and the enduring power of music. The sold-out crowd left energized and perhaps a little nostalgic, having witnessed a band not only revisiting their past but also demonstrating their continued relevance and raw power in the present. The anniversaries of 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage and A Different Kind of Pain were not just acknowledged; they were fiercely and memorably brought to life.
Additional Tour Dates:
4.17 Baltimore, MD
4.18 Greenville, SC
4.19 Chapel Hill, NC
4.22 Knoxville, TN
4.23 Atlanta, GA
Review and Photography by: Craig Eidell