For all the rock fans out there—here’s your new favorite band. Cola was formed in 2020 following the disbanding of Ought and stands for “Cost of Living Adjustment”. The band features Tim Darcy and Ben Stidworthy (ex-Ought members) and U.S Girls drummer Evan Cartwright. The band’s sound will without a doubt appeal to Ought fans, but there’s a distinct quality of newness that’s completely Cola’s own.

Cola recently released their debut album Deep In View on Fire Talk Records and continues to receive positive feedback from critics and fans alike. The album was written in true pandemic style—sending each other voice notes and recording virtually, and meeting once a month to work in person. The result is a triumphant 10-song album that features personal narratives woven into lyrics, addressing modern anxieties shaped by a technology-facing world, with some of the best instrumentals in recent memory. At first listen, it becomes obvious this is the type of album that’s made to be played live. 

You can stream the album below, and for those of you based in Vancouver—Cola will be performing at the Biltmore Cabaret on July 11th and you can grab your tickets here. We chatted with Cola ahead of the album release to discuss their creative process, upcoming tour, and sources of inspiration.

Your first album as a band is coming out soon! How has the creative process been as a new band, especially during a pandemic?

Evan: The process has been extremely rewarding. Although the pandemic has been a struggle, the void of isolation lent itself to deep focus.

Ben: I always wanted to play more with Evan and have always loved playing with Tim. Our time together was a blessing and our decision-making felt unlabored.

Tim: The pandemic forced us to do more writing separately.  We had these Friday deadlines where we would send a demo to each other.  It felt great to have that to look forward to during the lockdowns etc.

What are you most excited about on your upcoming tour?

Evan: To play in New York, LA, and Portland

Ben: Returning to Bernal Heights and reuniting with old friends that we met along the way. Also driving to a new place every day in the summer heat and thinking about what we will eat when we arrive.

Tim: It’s been a minute so I can’t think much beyond looking forward to the shows themselves.  We’ve also got a lot of great local bands we’re playing and I’m looking forward to seeing quite a few of them.

What or who inspires you the most?

Evan: We’re inspired by the good stuff: music, history, poetry et cetera

Ben: Watching friends play music and exploring how people interact and respond to music. 

Which of you is the best cook and what are your signature dishes?

Evan: Ben. Patatas Bravas.

If Cola had the world’s undivided attention for 1 minute, what would you say or do?

Tim: Point at Ben.

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