The Other Side reviews Cold Equations’ “Satellites”

The Other Side Reviews with some kind words for Cold Equations!

"Using their band name as a reference to Tom Godwin’s 1954 science-fiction story, The Cold Equations, US-based Cold Equations tap into the theme of that story with their music: the “moral dilemma of survival and sacrifice”. How so, I hear you ask. Well, born of disillusionment in modern-day society, Cold Equations create cathartic songs for people to find solace, escapism, and a profound awareness of those darker existential themes, like disillusionment. We were introduced to Cold Equations in 2023 with ‘Set The Boy Free’, but since then, Drew Kohl (vocals and guitar), John O’Brien (bass) and Ryan Dishen (drums) have gained a following with critically acclaimed albums and confident performances. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Satellite’.

Following their well-received 2023 albums, Cold Equations and Reverie, the threesome return to the music scene – well, at least streaming-wise – with ‘Satellite’. Retaining their indie-rock tone, ‘Satellite’ establishes a particular sound for Cold Equations; however, within the heavy rock-inspired tones, the arrangement appears more eclectic with a reverb-drenched rhythm caught in the distortions. Drawing on more classic rock sounds, Kohl’s scorching guitar solo adds a grittier vibe to ‘Satellite’. The thing is, while a stereotypical grunge-filled guitar exists, the reverb adds a particular flair to the track – it’s neither piercing nor psychedelic, but something to hold you as drums crash and the bass sings.

Melodically, ‘Satellite’ is a hard-hitting feast for the ears, tossing you into a sonic hurricane. The instruments whip past your head; you find yourself free-falling while being slammed from one wall to the other. Conceptually, the lyrics match this frenzied chaos… well, sort of. Delving into the cyclical nature of relationships and how past mistakes can return unexpectedly. Kohl explains:

'I was experimenting with different melodic ideas, and when the word ‘satellite’ fit rhythmically, it felt meaningless at first. But then the line about someone coming back around fell into place, and suddenly the whole concept revealed itself – this image of something orbiting about you, casting a shadow, coming around again and again.'"