Black Keys Shine on Latest Record

By Brady Bredell
Contributing Writer

In a world of commercial rock and mainstream pop, The Black Keys have always offered a breath of fresh air with their dynamic and consistently groundbreaking sound. The Akron, Ohio duo are most commonly known for their fusion of rock and blues, but their latest release, “Brothers,” is easily their most ambitious and diverse record to date.

Most notable is the reccurring theme of a 50s and 60s blues vibe that reminds listeners of the significance of that generation of songwriters. But this isn’t a blues album by any means. Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney have reinvented The Black Keys in a form that more closely identifies with indie rock greats such as The White Stripes, Wilco, The Flaming Lips or My Morning Jacket—who are all known for their limitless diversity. “Brothers” is easily one of the best albums released so far this year.

The highlight of “Brothers” is “Next Girl,” a funky track consisting of fat bass riffs and a chorus that will leave you demanding to hear this song over and over again. “My next girl will be nothing like my ex girl” proclaims Auerbach. “I made mistakes back then. I’ll never do it again.” Check out this track—you’ll probably relate to its message.
Another notable cut is “Howlin’ For You,” a track with an aggressive beat that sounds as if it was taken directly from Marilyn Manson’s “The Beautiful People” and then blended with mid-50s-influenced Chicago blues guitars, topped with a radio-friendly and singalong-ready chorus. This song is a glaring example of the genre-bending range of The Black Keys and their limitless possibilities in years to come.

Also worth mentioning is “Never Gonna Give You Up,” a song written by Stock, Aitken and Waterman and made famous by Rick Astley in 1987. This cover fuses old-school blues with traditional soul, and could be called the stand-out track because it sounds like absolutely nothing in The Black Keys catalog. Kick back and relax to this intriguing blend of soothing vocals and distorted brass.

The Black Keys never disappoint. They’ve released some of the most groundbreaking and innovative albums of the past decade, and “Brothers” isn’t any different. Unfortunately (or fortunately), there are simply too many great tracks to mention in such a short review. The overall diversity offers something for everyone and this record is a great place to start if you wish to broaden your musical tastes.
Recommended for fans of: Muddy Waters, North Mississippi All-stars, The White Stripes, R.L. Burnside and Junior Kimbrough. The Black Keys concert in Minneapolis is sold out, but check http://www.ticketmaster.com as the event approaches.

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If You Go

What: The Black Keys, Brian Olive
Where: First Avenue, Minneapolis
When: Tue-Wed, June 8 & 9, 7:30pm
Info: Sold out; 800.745.3000, 612.338.8388