The Black Keys — ‘El Camino’
Just as it was a boss ride back in 1973, “El Camino” proves to be one mean muscle machine once again 38 years later. A powerful 454 V8 engined powered the SS version of the El Camino. Now the acceleration is controlled by an Ohio duo that unleashes a retro-sounding collection of organically slick arrangements that delight and impress. The band’s seventh album features the return of producer Danger Mouse as he shapes the songs about love, life and lessons learned into gritty, smoldering numbers that are both moody and fun at the same time. Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney skillfully put together their best album as they combine the rebellious attitude of rock with a touch of glitter and glam tossed in for good measure.
From the grinding and infectious guitar work of the opener “Lonely Boy,” to the sexy toughness of the pulsating “Money Maker,” Auerbach and Carney launch a reckless and playful assault that hypnotically pleads for attention.
Similarly possessing a duel car and truck personality of the auto, “El Camino” embraces a variety of styles that seamlessly blend together, resulting in a full-fledged party album made to be played unrestrictedly loud. The Black Keys prove to be firmly in the driver’s seat as “El Camino” throttles its way to the head of the pack.