James and the Cold Gun

Action! Presents
James and the Cold Gun
– Special Guests
James and the Cold Gun are a Cardiff-based rock outfit who have quickly
become one of the most exciting bands on the modern rock scene. Described as
"South Wales' loudest group," they’ve made a name for themselves with their

high-energy, garage-punk sound that channels the rebellious spirit of '90s alt-
rock, blending gritty guitars with infectious melodies and raw, unfiltered emotion.

Formed by James Joseph (guitar/vocals) and James Biss (lead guitar), the
band's journey began in a humble Cardiff garage that doubled as both rehearsal
space and makeshift recording studio. The duo’s shared love of classic rock,
punk, and grunge led them to create a sound that echoes influences like Foo
Fighters, Queens of the Stone Age, and Stone Temple Pilots, while forging their
own distinctive path in the process.
Their debut album, James and the Cold Gun, was released in 2023, and
immediately garnered attention for its electrifying energy and gritty, no-frills
sound. Singles like “Chewing Glass,” “Cheating on the Sun,” and “Something to
Say” struck a chord with listeners, earning them a following in the UK and
beyond. Their DIY approach to music was evident, with much of their debut
recorded in that very garage, giving it an authenticity and rawness that connected
deeply with fans.
The band’s rise was further fueled by the attention of Stone Gossard (Pearl Jam),
who signed them to his label, Loosegroove Records, after hearing them on KEXP
Seattle. This partnership marked a pivotal moment in their career, opening doors
to new opportunities, including tours with Duff McKagan, Highly Suspect,
Thunderpussy and performances alongside Pearl Jam and Guns N' Roses at
BST Hyde Park.
James and the Cold Gun's sound, however, has continued to evolve. Their 2025
follow-up album, Face in the Mirror, marks a significant step forward. The band
took their garage-rock roots and expanded them with more melodic and
atmospheric elements, incorporating influences from Britpop and indie alongside
their classic rock foundations. The album was produced by the band and mixed
by legendary producer Brendan O'Brien (Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, AC/DC, Red
Hot Chili Peppers), adding an even greater layer of depth to their already
powerful sound.
The lead single, “Guessing Games”, perfectly encapsulates this evolution, fusing
melodic intricacy with the same raw, electrifying energy the band has always
been known for. As James Joseph explains, “It was written near the end of the
album process and felt like an outlier—more melodic and atmospheric. Stone

really connected with it, and we layered more guitars and added new bassist
Gaby Elise (bass guitar) on backing vocals to give it more punch.”
The band’s new direction showcases their growth, yet they remain true to the
gritty sound that originally drew fans to their music. The album includes a range
of dynamic tracks, from the fast-paced, garage-punk energy of “Cut the Brakes”
to the…