The Cold Stares are just fine with being one of the few modern blues-rock power trios in the world today. Based out of Evansville, Indiana, The Cold Stares continue to explore what it means to be a “modern” blues-rock trio on their upcoming album Texas—paying tribute to the state where so many of their influences like ZZ Top and the Vaughan brothers called home.

Initially formed in 2012, The Cold Stares began their career as a duo, but expanded their sonic firepower with the addition of bassist Bryce Klueh in 2022. Fuzzed-out guitars, classic rock guitar riffs, and fleet-fingered Cream-style improvisations abound, as do nods to Delta blues and an emphasis on songwriting and lyricism. The group has been praised by Classic Rock Magazine, No Depression, and American Songwriter, among other outlets; they reached #1 on Amazon Music’s Blues Rock album chart; ant they’ve had consecutive albums in Billboard Blues top ten charts.

The Cold Stares have earned prime sync license placements in commercials with Dodge and Chevy among others, had songs on hit television shows like Animal Kingdom and Sex Education, and have become a staple on many video games including Cyberpunk 2077 and UFL.