the BLACK KEYS

'Attack & Release'

Self-admittedly, i've always been a dabbler when it comes to stripped-down blues-rock stylings of Ohio's Black Keys. They've always held a top spot on my 'bands I know I would probably like a lot if only I had time to spend w/ their music' list, but i've really never felt that pumped to delve into their stuff w/ that much zeal. I only say this, as my frame of reference for this review may be a little limited...but, as this ain't no Rolling Stone, does it really matter?

From previous work I have listened to, 'Attack & Release' seems to have all the garage-hewn elements that have drawn folks to the band and some new flourishes as well. The band had started work w/ producer du jour, Danger Mouse (Gnarls Barkley, The Gorillaz, The Grey Album), on new material for the late Ike Turner that posthumously morphed into his helming of a new Black Keys album instead.

Luckily, DM doesn't allow himself to throw too many electronic beats or samples on top of the proven garage formula and instead ends up offering a subtle sonic twist that enhances rather than overwhelms. The grit is still there, but proper studio recording and said flourishes create a sort of a more polished dirty or dirty polish or...you get the point. Throw in contributions from experimental guitarist Marc Ribot and multi-instrumentalist Ralph Carney (Patrick's uncle), both of whom have played in Tom Waits' band...mathematics for a doozy of a sound.

While seemingly laid-back at first listen, the album is a burner from start to finish...slow burner perhaps, but burner nonetheless. The ebb and flow from the beautifully stoic lead off track 'All You Ever Wanted' to the strolling groove of 'I Got Mine' to the positively rocking 'Strange Times', is a solid trifecta that draws you in for more. Subsequent rock solid grooves found on tracks 'Same Old Thing' and 'Oceans & Streams' rest comfortably between more traditional, but equally satisfying, blues trips like 'Lies' and the sweeping closer 'Things Ain't Like They Used to Be'.

Truly, a full album's worth of solid musicality that deserves a listener's attention...lock yourself in a room w/ a pair of headphones musicality. No joke, it gets better w/ each listen too. The album actually drops on 1-April, but (as usual) you can get a little taste in the listening area. Enjoy!