The Killers Adopt a New Sound, For Reasons Unkown

Released in 2006 under Island Universal, "Sam's Town" is the Killer's curious follow up to their 2004 explosive debut, "Hot Fuss".


Shifting gears completely, the boys ditch their eyeliner and sequined coats for a somewhat grittier sound. Unlike the infectious pop perfection of "Somebody Told Me", the title track of "Sam's Town" has a tad more substance as it attempts to serve as some sort of commentary, on what, is not quite clear. Small town America, breaking free? This is the problem with "Sam's Town", its melodies and flawed vocals give the impression that the Killer's are singing with great purpose, what that purpose is, however, is absent. In this sense the album is a rebel without a cause.

In terms of formality, "Sam's Town", "When You Were Young", and "Read My Mind" are essentially three versions of the same musical concept, tested on three different plot scenarios; a reflection of adolescence embodied in an angst ridden tune. Lucky for them, "This River is Wild" is certainly a redeeming (and successful) track, offering nice imagery in the lyrics, and a catchy fast tempo carrying the verses along, the latter being something the Killers are particularly good at.

Aside from the unnecessary cry for a serious audience, "Sam's Town" is actually an enjoyable album, when not dissected. All things considered, it deserves three stars for trying.

Music Makes Me Lose Controllll

Music is created with the intention of soliciting some sort of reaction, be it positive or negative. Songs that fail to do so, are merely sound. That being said, there were three songs that I've found, have indeed, struck a chord.

My first selection is "The Times They Are A-Changin'" By Bob Dylan. Partly because I'm a sucker for anything acoustic, but mostly because no matter when or where I here this song it hits me with the same intensity each time. I heard it growing up, I've heard it used in commercials, I've listened to lectures on why it is progressive for its time (on more than one occasion), and so forth. But each time I here that opening chord and raspy voice, I can't help but want to start swimming.

"Eight Miles High" By the Byrds was another song that seems to stand out. I really enjoyed the combination and trade off of a more forceful guitar and then simple strumming, plus the solo in the middle is quite impressive and certainly a trademark of the times. Another reason it stood out was more obscure, but the title reminded me of a line in "American Pie" By Don Mclean where he says "eight miles high and falling fast". I always found this to be an odd number seeing as eight miles isn't all that high, but now it makes more sense.

And lastly, "The Wind" By Cat Stevens. Right off the bat it sounded, and felt honest. Something that is extremely rare to find in popular music, particularly in recent times. It seems interesting to me that a lot of the folk rock was very socially conscious. It's clearly a reflection of the times and society, but it makes me wonder, well worry, what people will think listening to our popular music decades from now. What will it, and what does it say about us? Also, the lyrics aren't totally obscure, but they still maintain a complexity that keeps it interesting and pleasant to listen to. On a separate note, I've found that I enjoy the works of Cat Stevens over Yusuf Islam, whatever that implies.