Buy This! Attack and Release (2008) from The Black Keys
BY DR. CHARMING I DECEMBER 4, 2008

I can really only say one thing about The Black Keys: they've made blues rock a favorite genre of mine. Simply put these guys ROCK! When I say guys, I mean two. That's right. Only two. They are guitarist-vocalist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney. The duo originated in Akron, Ohio, and from what I gather from the band's official site, they have been lifelong friends. The duo began playing in high school with a few other colleagues; however, Auerbach and Carney felt the best jams occurred between the two of them and carried on as a two-man band. This may sound a bit cocky but give the album a listen, and I think you'll agree.

The Black Keys are most commonly known for their gritty, homemade sound. Something my buddy Mike would refer to as "crunchy". Through their previous six albums the band created this sound by controlling their recording sessions and locations. Note: I would also recommend buying Magic Potion. In Attack and Release, the Keys left their comfort zone and agreed to let Danger Mouse produce for them. The result is a hard-edged, soft-spoken, soulful and loud groove-filled sound. Believe it or not, the motley sounds utilized by the duo make perfect sense from the very first track.

So go pick this up, if you have any interest at all in rock, you will be pleased. If you aim to listen to it before you buy, check out a few of my favorite tracks. They include, I Got Mine, Psychotic Girl, Remember When (side b), and Oceans and Streams. Trust me, guys and girls, The Black Keys are potent. So get connected, and start jamming.

Until Next Time,

Dr. Charming

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