Cold - Year of the Spider (180g Vinyl 2LP) * * *

Cold's 2003 Studio Album Year of the Spider on 180g 2LP.

Year of the Spider is the third studio album by American rock band Cold, released on May 13, 2003. It became the band’s most commercially successful record, debuting at number three on the Billboard album charts and selling over 101,000 copies in its first week. The album also marks the final appearance of guitarists Terry Balsamo and Kelly Hayes. One year prior to the album’s release, the mellow ballad “Gone Away” appeared on the WWF Tough Enough 2 soundtrack. Produced by Howard Benson, Year of the Spider presents a noticeably more commercial sound than its darker predecessor, 13 Ways to Bleed on Stage. The album incorporates a wide range of guitar styles, as well as violin, viola, cello, digital effects, and several powerful ballads. While Cold continues to explore themes such as drug abuse and troubled relationships, the album also expands into new territory. “Cure My Tragedy” reflects Scooter Ward’s emotional struggle during his sister’s battle with cancer, while “The Day Seattle Died” addresses the deaths of grunge icons Kurt Cobain and Layne Staley. According to Ward, “Kill the Music Industry” is not aimed at any specific label or individual, but comments on the broader state of the music business.

The lead single “Stupid Girl” became the album’s biggest hit and the only Cold track to enter the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number 87.

Year of the Spider is available as double vinyl album, features the hidden bonus track “Gone Away” and contains an insert with lyrics.