[2] On their Tumblr page, the band announced that the album would be out on July 10, 2012, and that they would release their first single, "Touch This Light", its music video, and a B-Side called "Dead" on April 24, 2012.

The link was quickly pulled after only a handful of people were able to access the song.,[4] On May 15, 2012, five preorder bundles were made available on Gotee Records' online store, featuring limited edition CDs and vinyl presses.

Starting June 25 and ending July 6, the band once again updated the site every weekday, but this time with full lyric videos for each major song on the album (excluding the a capella intro and "outro").

On July 10, 2012, the album was made available digitally through iTunes, AmazonMP3, and Google Play, and in hard copy through major retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon.

"[7] CCM Magazine's Andy Argyrakis wrote that this album is "yet another notch and showcasing the vast musical spectrum that continues to flank the foursome.

The combination of top notch production, catchy melodies, beautiful harmonies, breathtaking musicianship and the amazing voice of Tim Skipper is more than enough to impress anyone from an old fan to a first time listener.

"[14] Jesus Freak Hideout's Josh Taylor wrote that "When it comes to a band like House of Heroes, with a discography as impressive as theirs, it is hard to give each new album a fair shake without comparing it to all of its predecessors.

Combining HOH nostalgia with heavier, edgier and more anthemic musical pieces, they may have set the bar higher than any of their previous records.

"[18] New Release Tuesday's Kevin Davis wrote that "Cold Hard Want is House of Heroes' most urgent, most tangible, most undeniable artifact in their marked career.

"[20] The NewReview's Jonathan Anderson wrote that "Time will tell if Cold Hard Want surpasses their previous efforts, but from where I’m standing, that is a distinct possibility.

"[21] Sputnikmusic's Davey Boy wrote that "Naturally, comparisons and rankings will still be made as to where 'Cold Hard Want' fits into the catalog of House of Heroes releases.

In a sense, it somewhat mirrors the "living responsibly and conscientiously to die proudly" motif in that House of Heroes perform this album with such a passion, craft and proficiency, that no matter which direction they head next, this talented outfit will be able to look back upon 'Cold Hard Want' with nothing but pride.