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Cold War Kids — We Used To Vacation
Album: Robbers & Cowards
Avg rating:
5.6

Your rating:
Total ratings: 394









Released: 2006
Length: 4:00
Plays (last 30 days): 0
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I kissed the kids at noon
Then stumbled out of the room
I caught a cab, ran up a tab on 7th & Flower

Beth's recital I had to run
Missed my son's graduation
Punched the Nichols boy for taking his seat
He gets all that anger from me

Still, things could be much worse
Natural disasters on the evening news
Still, things could be much worse
We've still got our health
My paycheck in the mail

I promised to my wife and children
I'd never touch another drink as long as I live
But even then it sounds so soothing
This will blow over in time
This will all blow over in time

I'm just an honest man
Provide for me and mine
I give a check to tax deductible charity organizations
Two weeks paid vacation won't heal the damage done
I need another one

Still, things could be much worse
Natural disasters on the evening news
Still, things could be much worse
We've still got our health
My paycheck in the mail

I promised to my wife and children
I'd never touch another drink as long as I live
But even then it sounds so soothing
To mix a gin and sink into oblivion

I promised to my wife and children
That accident left everyone a little shook up
But at the meetings I felt so empty
This will blow over in time
This will all blow over in time
Comments (109)add comment
It sounds more Jack White than Jack White does. 
Posted 4 years ago by justin4kick    [ Reply ]
Wizzuvv_oz wrote:
it's a box of tic tacs (sp?) I'm serious That is really disappointing IMO
I'd still rather be walking through a pasture and be surprised by an emo boy shaking a box of tic tacs than by a diamondback. Although an emo boy in that setting would be kind of startling too, may have to beat him with a shovel too.
Posted 17 years ago by slartibart_O    [ Reply ]
meydele wrote:
You absolutely did.
thx!
Posted 17 years ago by prickelpit96    [ Reply ]
prickelpit96 wrote:
lyrics: did i get them right? is the song dealing with alcoholism and the consequences on families?
You absolutely did.
Posted 17 years ago by meydele    [ Reply ]
slartibart_O wrote:
damn, I'm kind of liking this for the stuttering rhythms, - a little white stripes vibe - but as a country bred Texas boy I DO NOT like the rattlesnake in the background, it doesn't take much of a reminder to dredge up too many close calls with the cursed thangs...
it's a box of tic tacks (sp?) I'm serious
Posted 17 years ago by Wizzuvvoz    [ Reply ]
damn, I'm kind of liking this for the stuttering rhythms, - a little white stripes vibe - but as a country bred Texas boy I DO NOT like the rattlesnake in the background, it doesn't take much of a reminder to dredge up too many close calls with the cursed thangs...
Posted 17 years ago by slartibart_O    [ Reply ]
Can't stand that screechy guitar!
Posted 17 years ago by jagdriver    [ Reply ]
Watch out for the rattle snake!!!
Posted 17 years ago by sunnysoul03    [ Reply ]
I started listening for the crazy (somewhat depressing) lyrics, but I keep coming back for the cool riffs and tempo shifts. Pure musicality. I'm not sure that I've heard "Tell me in the morning", but our local FM station here in Portland plays "Hang me up to dry", and that's pretty sweet too!
Posted 17 years ago by gregormiz    [ Reply ]
music sounds interesting, unusual use of the drums... gave them a 6. lyrics: did i get them right? is the song dealing with alcoholism and the consequences on families?
Posted 17 years ago by prickelpit96    [ Reply ]
This will all blow over in time.........
Posted 17 years ago by nigelr    [ Reply ]
'Post Modernist Blues'. Finally a name for music like this. I dig it. c.
Posted 17 years ago by cc_rider    [ Reply ]
lmic wrote:
I really like it, too.
Here, here! Gave it a 9 - what the hey!
Posted 17 years ago by tnt_thomas    [ Reply ]
In the past 4 years I've known four dads who have died because of alcholism. I can only imagine their kids heard every one of these lies many, many times over... great song.
Posted 17 years ago by sunybuny    [ Reply ]
Wow not often I give a one. ONE!
Posted 17 years ago by rrowdies    [ Reply ]
This sounds like Jeff Buckley on vocals.
Posted 17 years ago by Pyro    [ Reply ]
Not for me. <1>
Posted 17 years ago by 2Hawks    [ Reply ]
Great song. The whole album's really good as well.
Posted 17 years ago by pescivendolo    [ Reply ]
TimeWaster wrote:
Still on the fence about this song, but one thing I do like is how it slows down and speeds up. Keeps it interesting.
Touch of the ole BS & Tears happening there
Posted 17 years ago by TerryS    [ Reply ]
zipper wrote:
It rocks.
I really like it, too.
Posted 17 years ago by lmic    [ Reply ]
Pyro wrote:
Is the shaker in the background supposed to sound like a rattlesnake?
That's what it sounds like to me. Tic-Tac make a more clackety-clack sound. Maybe if they are harmonized up an octave or two...
Posted 17 years ago by Servo    [ Reply ]
TimeWaster wrote:
Still on the fence about this song, but one thing I do like is how it slows down and speeds up. Keeps it interesting.
It rocks.
Posted 17 years ago by zipper    [ Reply ]
skyguy wrote:
that does it . I'm getting a beer
I'm with you! Maybe a sixer
Posted 17 years ago by dtytler    [ Reply ]
This must have some sort of relevance to the DJ, cause it sure is not regular RP quality
Posted 17 years ago by davin    [ Reply ]
Yuck
Posted 17 years ago by Wasted    [ Reply ]
Like it.
Posted 17 years ago by sutcliff    [ Reply ]
A garage band with a record deal!
Posted 17 years ago by parrothead    [ Reply ]
Wow! Never heard this before. It's awful.
Posted 17 years ago by RobRyan    [ Reply ]
that does it . I'm getting a beer
Posted 17 years ago by skyguy    [ Reply ]
I enjoyed the quirkiness of this piece probably the first three times I heard it. The next 100 times? Not so much.
Posted 17 years ago by BlueHeronDruid    [ Reply ]
Still on the fence about this song, but one thing I do like is how it slows down and speeds up. Keeps it interesting.
Posted 17 years ago by TimeWaster    [ Reply ]
Huh. Not sure if I love it or otherwise. You guys are correct, interesting it is. Ask me after the 4th or 5th play.
Posted 17 years ago by redeyespy    [ Reply ]
Fantastic!!!
Posted 17 years ago by princeofpeoria    [ Reply ]
Excellent Live Band. They opened with this song last Tuesday and blew everyone away. They were openning for Tokyo Police Club and while TPC were good, CWK kicked their ass. But to correct Bill (who just announced that this band is from the UK), they described themselves as being from California during the concert.
Posted 17 years ago by The_Enemy    [ Reply ]
this is quality
Posted 17 years ago by roodboy    [ Reply ]
A 9?? Was I crazy?? I'm changing to a 10 right now.
Posted 17 years ago by LizDeines    [ Reply ]
This is why I love Radio Paradise! Where else could you hear a whacko song like this, and then get to comment on it! Me likey!
Posted 17 years ago by Laptopdog    [ Reply ]
oscar_driver wrote:
This is 7 easy, come on guys, ... think about .. this is young people music that isn't Brytney Spears ... Oscar
Man, this is blackmail.
Posted 17 years ago by Barman    [ Reply ]
I really thought this was the White Stripes until I looked at the playlist, though I suppose I should have known better. Not bad at all - 7 from the Nottingham jury.
Posted 17 years ago by fredriley    [ Reply ]
Don't start complaining ..... please ... this is good stuff considering so much crap everywhere. OScar
Posted 17 years ago by oscar_driver    [ Reply ]
This song is wack and overplayed.
Posted 17 years ago by arcas2000    [ Reply ]
It's kind of quirky. So am I. I like quirky.
Posted 17 years ago by zevon    [ Reply ]
Al_Koholic wrote:
Liking it the more I hear it. Thanks RP. 6 to a 7.
Ditto 8 -> 9. Post modernist blues.
Posted 17 years ago by bitbanger    [ Reply ]
lmic wrote:
I believe the song is about waiting to hit bottom. (click here)
Sounds like a true drunk to me.
Posted 17 years ago by meydele    [ Reply ]
Did he just sing about a 'tax-deductable charity organisation'? Bob, get your lawyers on the case.
Posted 17 years ago by Pazzat    [ Reply ]
buddy0407 wrote:
Tired of this song now.
Liking it the more I hear it. Thanks RP. 6 to a 7.
Posted 17 years ago by Al_Koholic    [ Reply ]
SpaceCase wrote:
I really dig the sound of this song, but what I find annoying is the line: "I promised to my wife and children I'd never touch another drink as long as I live" Whatta Loadda....
I believe the song is about waiting to hit bottom. (click here)
Posted 17 years ago by lmic    [ Reply ]
Tired of this song now.
Posted 17 years ago by buddy0407    [ Reply ]
This is 7 easy, come on guys, dang some of you are closed minded ... think about .. this is young people music that isn't Brytney Spears ... Oscar
Posted 17 years ago by oscar_driver    [ Reply ]
Is the shaker in the background supposed to sound like a rattlesnake? *edit* I see I should have backscrolled Don't care for whitestripes, don't care for this...
Posted 17 years ago by Pyro    [ Reply ]
Now I have to wait to go home. I hate to disagree with Davin, but I absolutely LOVE this song. I'm almost ready to change my 9 to a 10...
Posted 17 years ago by LizDeines    [ Reply ]
YUCK
Posted 17 years ago by Re    [ Reply ]
bleagh!
Posted 17 years ago by davin    [ Reply ]
I wish they'd stop this pretentious twaddle.
Posted 17 years ago by Welly    [ Reply ]
this irritates me more every time i hear it.
Posted 17 years ago by rah    [ Reply ]
tnt_thomas wrote:
Too funny!
OldFrenchie wasn't kidding. It's true. Bill gave that bit of trivia on many occasions.
Posted 17 years ago by lixy    [ Reply ]
Corporate pop music. "Let's give the kids something that means nothing, and they'll give us their money in return" They're all laughing as they cash their checks...
Posted 17 years ago by fretman    [ Reply ]
Posted 17 years ago by cathenley    [ Reply ]
I really dig the sound of this song, but what I find annoying is the line: "I promised to my wife and children I'd never touch another drink as long as I live" Whatta Loadda....
Posted 17 years ago by SpaceCase    [ Reply ]
littleRoom wrote:
exactly what i was thinking, this song sounds just like the stripes, but not nearly as good. Now, when are we getting a new album from mr white?
He's probably still touring with the Raconteurs. Their album didn't turn out too well, but Steady as She Goes is a great song.
Posted 17 years ago by MutualDisdain    [ Reply ]
MutualDisdain wrote:
This song sounds better when Jack White does it. This clone might not make it out of the gate.
exactly what i was thinking, this song sounds just like the stripes, but not nearly as good. Now, when are we getting a new album from mr white?
Posted 17 years ago by littleRoom    [ Reply ]
Z reminded me that these guys joined Elvis Perkins in Dearland on stage when they opened for MMJ. These guys were the best part of Elvis' performance. Fun! I'd see 'em again.
Posted 17 years ago by zipper    [ Reply ]
what is this; a white stripes tribute band; stripomania?
Posted 17 years ago by thewiseking    [ Reply ]
This song sounds better when Jack White does it. This clone might not make it out of the gate.
Posted 17 years ago by MutualDisdain    [ Reply ]
I absolutely cannot get enough of this song. It gets a 9 from me.
Posted 17 years ago by LizDeines    [ Reply ]
Jacksonstat wrote:
Or a rattlesnake?
What the H--- is it with that rattlesnake??
Posted 17 years ago by jayvee2    [ Reply ]
Can't believe all the hating going on with this song. This is one of my favorite bands right now, most fun I've had at a live show in a long time and that includes Gomez. Plus they are great guys with the nicest band manager... Play Hospital Beds, that's their anthem!
Posted 17 years ago by birdboy    [ Reply ]
pkimbrel wrote:
Or rice in a medicine bottle?
Or a rattlesnake?
Posted 17 years ago by Jacksonstat    [ Reply ]
Paul_in_Australia wrote:
Thats not a pencil in his hand....
hahahahahha good point.
Posted 17 years ago by rachlan    [ Reply ]
Holy trash ending, Batman!
Posted 17 years ago by pkimbrel    [ Reply ]
oh damn it, from bad to worse, comon now...
Posted 17 years ago by No-thing    [ Reply ]
OldFrenchie wrote:
Is this the first song to use a half full tic-tac box as an instrument?
Or rice in a medicine bottle?
Posted 17 years ago by pkimbrel    [ Reply ]
Shesdifferent wrote:
What an interesting song.
But oh so ugly.
Posted 17 years ago by FlatCat    [ Reply ]
OldFrenchie wrote:
Is this the first song to use a half full tic-tac box as an instrument?
Don't give Stevie Nicks any ideas!
Posted 17 years ago by On_The_Beach    [ Reply ]
What an interesting song.
Posted 17 years ago by Shesdifferent    [ Reply ]
etwilson wrote:
I'm just an honest man provide for me and mine I give a check to tax deductible charity organizations So is this Mr. Jones singing?
Thats not a pencil in his hand....
Posted 17 years ago by Paul_in_Australia    [ Reply ]
I'm just an honest man provide for me and mine I give a check to tax deductible charity organizations So is this Mr. Jones singing?
Posted 17 years ago by etwilson    [ Reply ]
OldFrenchie wrote:
Is this the first song to use a half full tic-tac box as an instrument?
Too funny!
Posted 17 years ago by tnt_thomas    [ Reply ]
The more I hear this song the more I love it. Living it wasn't much fun, though.
Posted 17 years ago by LizDeines    [ Reply ]
It sure isn't boring. Isn't that rattling sound one of those things on a roller stick that you give the bimbo backup singer to hold(if the tamborine is to complicated for her) while she gyrates on stage? I don't think this band has any bimbos so they put it to good(?) use.
Posted 17 years ago by bokey    [ Reply ]
It sure sounds like it - or maybe a caged rattlesnake that's been poked with a stick? The singer sounds a bit like Arctic Monkeys.
Posted 17 years ago by Welly    [ Reply ]
Frenchie...good one, although it may be 3/4 full :)
Posted 17 years ago by jonleehacker    [ Reply ]
Is this the first song to use a half full tic-tac box as an instrument?
Posted 17 years ago by OldFrenchie    [ Reply ]
If they ever recorded any other takes of this song, I'll bet they sound really different.
Posted 17 years ago by RongoTBurg    [ Reply ]
I like it that discordant guitar really draws me in
Posted 17 years ago by electronicshaman    [ Reply ]
Though not a message I personally have experience with, it is nonetheless a song with something to say. That in itself earns points from me. And I like the guys voice. The rolling tempo and backbeat get me going. I like it. For now, at about 7 listenings, I give it a 7. Could go up as it grows on me more....
Posted 17 years ago by jadewahoo    [ Reply ]
I like the funky bass. The lyrics are good too.
Posted 17 years ago by eclectek    [ Reply ]
Wallis wrote:
Reminds me of both John & George post-Beatles stuff.
Posted 17 years ago by musikalia    [ Reply ]
Anyone have the full album? Is it all this good?
Posted 17 years ago by jeofredo    [ Reply ]
Well well. This sounds pretty cool.
Posted 17 years ago by bokey    [ Reply ]
Damn, hard to even say why I love it. There's probably just two or three relevant lines in the lyrics and the instrumental aspect is something like avaunt garage. But for whatever reason it all comes together for me and I have myself a four minute jam fest. Maybe you just have to have been near this kind of suffering to feel it.
Posted 17 years ago by adu    [ Reply ]
The cold war is over! And I can't wait until this song is.
Posted 17 years ago by miahfost    [ Reply ]
Bill, you are fast becoming my favorite person. Keep it up!
Posted 17 years ago by LizDeines    [ Reply ]
keep the interesting stuff coming, Bill. this one grows on me every time I hear it.
Posted 17 years ago by IMGoph    [ Reply ]
another of nick harcourt's unaccountable favorites...
Posted 17 years ago by rah    [ Reply ]
this is a fine example of the fresh music I come here for...provocative and interesting...I don't expect to run out and buy it but it keeps me coming back to RP for more...thanks
Posted 17 years ago by lovelifealways    [ Reply ]
v cool
Posted 17 years ago by araujokrl    [ Reply ]
Reminds me of both John & George post-Beatles stuff. Difference is, I like most of their stuff.
Posted 17 years ago by Wallis    [ Reply ]
exactly how I feel this morning.
Posted 17 years ago by Faithful_Fool    [ Reply ]
That rattle snake sound is annoying!
Posted 17 years ago by pigglywiggly    [ Reply ]
LizDeines wrote:
... it makes work tolerable.
Almost.
Posted 17 years ago by ElSupreme    [ Reply ]
these kids are growing on me..
Posted 17 years ago by sixxstrings    [ Reply ]
Yess! Regina Spektor meets White Stripes on a John Zorn concert. Love it.
Posted 17 years ago by Frater_Kork    [ Reply ]
I like it alot. Keeps you a little off-balance like you don't know what's coming up next. Perfect mood for the lyrics.
Posted 17 years ago by bronorb    [ Reply ]
Sounds like Gavin DeGraw. I like it. I guess.
Posted 17 years ago by Smoove_D    [ Reply ]
Reminds me of the Racantours. Very White Stripish. Nice.
Posted 17 years ago by horstman    [ Reply ]
This is horrid. (imagine an emoticon with its hand over its ears here . . .)
Posted 17 years ago by Squirrel    [ Reply ]
I like very much. I just discovered Radio Paradise, it makes work tolerable.
Posted 17 years ago by LizDeines    [ Reply ]
Two-fisted piano & funky vocals a la Regina Specktor! I like it!
Posted 17 years ago by lmic    [ Reply ]