Any Way the Wind Blows

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the soulful track "Any Way the Wind Blows" by The Cold Stares from their 2019 album Ways, delighting their loyal Zoo Freaks. This song, a standout piece of traditional hard/blues rock, carries an emotional weight that resonates with listeners. According to a 2019 review by Metalhead Community, the song’s raw energy and top-class production make it a perfect fit for live performances, with its straightforward composition rooted in classic rock elements that feel timeless. The review praised its clean, dynamic sound, noting that it embodies the authentic spirit of hard rock while showcasing the band’s potential to carve out a unique identity in the genre.

Lyrically, "Any Way the Wind Blows" dives into the turbulence of a rocky relationship, using weather metaphors to capture its unpredictability. As shared on SonicHits, the lyrics like “Cold as ice, hot as hell, just like the weather and I can’t seem to ever tell” reflect the confusion and frustration of dealing with a partner’s erratic emotions. Fans on social media have echoed this sentiment, with one YouTube commenter on the song’s video comparing its guitar riffs to Led Zeppelin’s “Heartbreaker” and “Moby Dick,” while still calling it a “cracking riff” that “kicks ass.” Another fan praised the video’s vibe, particularly the stoic expression of a motorcycle-riding character, adding a layer of visual storytelling that complements the song’s gritty feel.

The Cold Stares began their journey in Western Kentucky, where guitarist and vocalist Chris Tapp and drummer Brian Mullins first crossed paths in their early twenties, playing in various bands. As detailed on Last.fm, the duo didn’t initially set out to form a band. A decade after their early collaborations, they were asked to open a show for a friend and, in a bold move, performed without a bass player, relying solely on their raw chemistry. This minimalist approach became a hallmark of their sound, blending blues and rock with a modern edge. Bassist Bryce Klueh later joined them for their 2022 UK tour, adding depth to their live performances, but the core of the band remains Tapp and Mullins’ unpolished, powerful dynamic.

The band’s rise wasn’t without challenges, but their persistence paid off. An interview with Brian Mullins on blues.gr, linked via their official website, highlights how they caught the attention of blues-rock icon Joe Bonamassa, who became a key supporter. Their discography, including albums like A Cold Wet Night (2014), Head Bent (2017), and Ways (2019), shows their growth as songwriters and performers. IndieShark called Ways their “most fully realized effort yet,” praising the “wall of sound” they create as a duo. Their connection to fans is evident in gestures like Mullins premiering “The Rotten Appel” snare drum in memory of a devoted fan, shared on their Facebook page.

You can keep up with The Cold Stares through their official website, where they post updates like their 2019 WarTrace, TN show and new releases like the Black Sunset EP. Follow them on Facebook for live event announcements, like their 2020 streaming concert, and on Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses. Their X account shares real-time updates and fan interactions. For fan communities, check out the Cold Stares Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and other devotees swap stories, discuss tracks like "Any Way the Wind Blows," and celebrate the band’s blues-rock legacy.