reax music magazine :: music + culture » Reviews » The Black Keys - Attack and Release

The Black Keys have always been fans of minimalism and eccentric recording methods. Acidic guitar licks, bluesy vocals and tantalizing off-kilter drum beats are the tools with which they’ve plied their trade since 2002’s The Big Come Up. Attack and Release represents a slight shift in their direction, but retains The Black Key’s signature sounds nevertheless. This is largely due to the groovy influence of Danger Mouse, the Key’s shiny new producer. A series of subtle tweaks supplement the Keys' sound without diminishing what they’ve cultivated over the years: from the churchy organ at the end of “All You Ever Wanted,” to the snippets of banjo, ghostly background chorus and head-bobbing bass line of “Psychotic Girl.” If subtlety isn’t enough, wait until the charming electronic bubble-beats of “Remember When (Side A).” Don’t fret, though, because The Black Keys' blues-rock chops are largely intact – and wonderfully showcased – in the upbeat tracks “I Got Mine” and “Strange Times.” As with any release from this talented duo: expect much, receive more. – Christian Crider