Cold Water Flat was an alternative rock band formed in 1990 in Amherst, Massachusetts as a trio comprising Paul Janovitz (vocals, guitar), Ted Silva (bass), and Paul Harding (drums). Formed at the University of Massachusetts, they carved a niche for themselves in Boston's vibrant music scene, akin to Buffalo Tom, led by Paul's brother Bill Janovitz.
Initially, Cold Water Flat's music was rooted in the alternative rock movement of the 1990s, reflecting a blend of alternative pop/rock and indie rock influences. Their style was marked by angst-laden lyrics and gritty guitar play, typical of the era's grunge-influenced sound.
"Listen" (1993): The first album, "Listen," released in 1993, was a significant debut for the band. It saw its release in Europe under the Bitter Sweet label and in the United States under Sonic Bubblegum. The album was recorded and mixed at Fort Apache, a renowned studio in Cambridge, known for its role in the alternative rock movement. This setting provided a fitting backdrop for the band's creative process. The production of "Listen" was a collaborative effort between Paul Janovitz and Tim O'Heir, adding depth and texture to the album's sound. Contributing to the distinctiveness of the album were Bill Janovitz, who lent his skills on the slide and lead guitar, and George Lanides on guitar and acoustic bass. The visual aspects of the album, including its design and photography, were handled by John Egan and Theresa Kelliher, with additional contributions from Paul Janovitz himself.
"Cold Water Flat" (1995): Their self-titled album, "Cold Water Flat," released in 1995, continued to showcase the band's evolution in the music scene. This album was recorded at the same Fort Apache studio in Cambridge, MA, which by then had become a hallmark of quality in the alternative music space. Embracing the pop/rock genre, the album leaned towards alternative pop/rock and alternative/indie rock styles, reflecting the band's versatility and adaptability within the broader spectrum of rock music.
From: https://digmeout.substack.com/p/cold-water-flat-history-of-the-band
