The Killers – ‘Day and Age’
Posted in Album Reviews on December 3, 2008
Remember when a young, vibrant and exciting band exploded on to the indie scene all clean shaven and bright eyed? And thinking to yourself “this band is going to be huge” after seeing the video for “Somebody Told Me? And then telling your friends “see I told you they would be big”?
No body, but no body, can deny the success that “The Killers” have had over the past four or five years, they taught strict Rn’B lovers how to broaden their horizons, and made indie acceptable in mainstream nightclubs.
Yet, a lot of this is down extremely successful 2004 debut album Hot Fuss”. Their second album, “Sam’s Town” shared some characteristics with “Hot Fuss” but failed to live up to the expectations set by its older brother. This only added to the anticipation of the third album. A pressure and anticipation that the killers were all to pleased to deal with.
In simple terms, the reason “Day and Age” is such a good album, is because it covers all bases. It has the songs you can listen to and appreciate at any time, like a certain “Mr. Brightside” once managed. Songs such as “Joy Ride,” with its biting guitars and a melody that grabs you on the first listen.
It also has the songs that all indie bands need – songs that get the pulse racing like “Spaceman”. This demonstrates the Killers’ 80s influences, with a fist-pumping fast-paced rocker, big drum beat, a catchy rift, and a hard tune to turn over. This song is a sure way of getting a speeding ticket if you listen to it in the car on an open road.
As the album progresses it is clear to see that the entire band has grown and dealt with the slight criticism of “Sam’s Town,” and now are able to show more energy and maturity with their music.
7/10
Sam Francis