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With 2004′s “Hot Fuss,” Nevada foursome The Killers became one of the biggest new alternative rock bands everyone thought were British. In the four years since, “Hot Fuss” has gone platinum three times over and the band has added “Sam’s Town” (2006), “Sawdust” (2007) and this year’s “Day & Age” to their discography.
“Sam’s Town” was a mild departure from their original sound. It fused pseudo Brit-rock with heavy dance beats and a touch of synthesizer. On “Day & Age,” with titles like “Neon Tiger,” “Dancer” and “Spaceman,” it’s not far off to expect more psychedelic dance sounds. The new venture successfully takes the hints of groove in their previous albums and runs with them.
The debut single from the album is a prime example of the band’s evolution. “Human” has vocalist Brandon Flowers straining his voice to near-breaking point, typical Killers’ lyrics on the verge of making sense (“Will your system be alright / When you dream of home tonight?”) and a beat you can’t help but dance to.
The intro of “Losing Touch” practically jumps out of the speakers with synthetic chimes that set a spacey, out of this world beat, nicely complimenting Flowers’ voice. On some songs Flowers sounds a bit computerized, but the overall effect is pleasing — it’s more Bowie than Britney.
Another standout is “A Dustland Fairytale.” It’s the story of Cinderella rebooted. “Fairytale” starts out soft and lilting, before kicking into full rock mode around the two-minute mark. The same dreamlike, off-beat lyrics Killers fans are accustomed to are impressively amped up with a full instrumental band. This could be the best song on tap.
As with many highly anticipated albums, there are some less successful aspects to “Day & Age.” Tracks like “The World We Live In” and “This Is Your Life” are lackluster and exhibit little of the musical growth that has helped this band thrive. They’re the kind of filler tracks you listen to again and again but don’t actually absorb anything.
The Killers exhibit an ability to morph and create new sounds without alienating their original fan base. “Day & Age” is — for the most part — refreshing and easy to listen to. It may falter on a few occasions, but listeners should have no trouble forgiving the missteps.
Grade: B
