Friday, May 28, 2010
By Katie Barger
Staff Writer
While listening to The Black Keys, it is hard to grasp that the band is simply a duo. The band is audacious and true to its sound, yet still continues to redefine itself on each of its albums.
The Black Keys’ latest record, “Brothers,” is no exception. The band brings back its bluesy rock and soul, but there is a slight softening to the usual garage rock sound heard on Keys’ albums.
The opening track, “Everlasting Light,” reveals this change where singer Dan Auerbach breaks into falsetto which is echoed later in the album. On the second track, “Next Girl,” Auerbach returns to his raw, soulful vocals.
Across the album, Auerbach shows his vocal versatility in songs such as “Howlin’ For You” where he brings grit and tenacity. In the Danger Mouse-produced first single, “Tighten Up,” Auerbach’s voice is explosive and silky at just the right moments.
The influence of Jimmy Hendrix, The Doors and Led Zeppelin is present throughout the album, particularly in “Black Mad” and “Sinister Kid.” These songs are full of hard jam sessions.
The album even features some ‘70s Motown soul influence in songs such as “The Only One” and a cover of Jimmy Butler’s “Never Gonna Give You Up.” While these songs may not embody the funky jams of older Keys’ material, they do round out the album nicely, taking listeners on a complete funk-soul journey through the heart of Motown.
“Brothers” is availabe on iTunes for $11.99 and at most music retailers.
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