Automobile

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Automobile" by The Cold Stares, a track from their album "(Single)" that’s got the Zoo Freaks buzzing. This song, a gritty blues-rock anthem, carries the band’s signature raw energy, and there’s some cool trivia behind it. In a post on their Instagram, The Cold Stares shared that "Automobile" was inspired by the open road and the freedom of cruising through America’s heartland, a nod to their love for classic cars and the stories they tell. The band also mentioned on X that the track’s driving rhythm was born from a late-night jam session where they channeled the spirit of vintage Muscle Shoals recordings. Fans on the Facebook page commented on how the song’s lyrics evoke a sense of rebellion and escape, resonating with listeners who crave adventure.

Another tidbit comes from an interview snippet shared on their official website, where lead singer and guitarist Chris Tapp revealed that "Automobile" was recorded in a single take to capture its live, unpolished vibe. The band wanted it to feel like you’re riding shotgun with them, windows down, blasting through a desert highway. On a Cold Stares Fan Group on Facebook, a fan recounted meeting the band at a gig where they played "Automobile" and shared how the song’s riff was partly inspired by Chris’s old ’68 Camaro, which he still tinkers with. The group’s X posts also hint at a music video for the song, shot in a junkyard filled with rusted classic cars, adding to its rugged, nostalgic charm.

The Cold Stares started as a duo in Western Kentucky, with Chris Tapp and Brian Mullins forging their sound in the early 2010s. According to their bio on their website, the two met through a mutual love of blues, rock, and Southern storytelling. Chris, who grew up surrounded by gospel and country, picked up the guitar young, teaching himself by ear. Brian, a drummer with a knack for heavy grooves, had been playing in local bands before they teamed up. Their bio notes they began gigging in dive bars, honing a minimalist yet powerful sound that didn’t need a bassist to fill the room. Their Facebook page highlights how their early days were DIY, booking their own tours and recording in a home studio, which gave them the grit that defines their music today.

The band’s big break came when they caught the ear of a producer who helped them release their debut album, A Cold Wet Night, in 2014. As shared on their Instagram, they built a loyal following through relentless touring, playing festivals and opening for acts like Rival Sons and Larkin Poe. Fans on the Cold Stares Fan Group often share stories of discovering the band at small venues, drawn in by their electrifying live shows. The Cold Stares’ X account reflects their down-to-earth vibe, regularly engaging with fans and posting about their latest projects, like their upcoming album The Southern Part II. Their journey from Kentucky bars to international stages shows their dedication to authentic, soulful rock.

For more on The Cold Stares, check out their official website, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or join the Cold Stares Fan Group on Facebook to connect with other fans. No dedicated fan websites were found, but the fan group is a lively spot for Zoo Freaks to share their love for the band’s music.