A review of The Killers’ new album
After five long years, everyone’s favorite alternative band is back.
“Wonderful Wonderful,” the new album from Grammy-nominated rock band The Killers, allows fans to enjoy nostalgic, familiar sounds while mixing in some new, experimental elements. The album dropped on Sept. 22, and just last week became the band’s first record to hit number one on the Billboard albums chart.
Their fifth album kicks off with title track “Wonderful Wonderful,” which gives off a psychedelic vibe, reminiscent of Pink Floyd. The listener is punched straight in the gut by the deep bass, courtesy of bassist Mark Stoermer, while the vocals, heavily altered for effect, are used as more of an added instrument, rather than as the main focus.
While the lyrics are discernable, the vocals are not as distinct as before, which adds to the instrumental effect. In many songs, a clear structure can be heard, with an obvious chorus, verse and bridge.
“Wonderful Wonderful”, alongside a few other songs on this album, does not make this structure obvious, allowing for the music to move smoothly from start to finish. Throughout the album, the songs flow into each other, forcing the listener to pay attention to the lyrics, or enabling them to focus on something else while The Killers play in the background.
A common feature throughout the album is the use of a synthesizer, which adds an intriguing quality to the group’s sound, effectively revamping their whole style. “Some Kind of Love” utilizes electronic sounds in a very interesting way. This Brian Eno-inspired song exhibits vocals that are pitched so high the lyrics become almost indiscernible, and here they are meant to be more of an instrument.
What makes this song stand out is not only the band’s decision to pitch the vocal, but also that the lyrics themselves have true depth to them.
These lyrics were written to speak to one’s soul, yet they are almost impossible to hear. There is a message to “Some Kind of Love”, but some in depth listening is necessary to uncover the meaning of this hidden treasure.
There are a few songs on the album that bring back the classic angst fans love about The Killers, like “Rut”, “Life to Come”, “Run for Cover”, and “Have All the Songs Been Written?” The group has an amazing ability to evoke nostalgia from individuals about things they have never experienced. Lead singer Brandon Flowers’ voice mesmerizes listeners and they sympathize with his heart aches as he pours out his soul into each song.
“Wonderful Wonderful” has the perfect blend of calm songs and songs to get one hyped up, all of which drip with passion and emotion.
These aren’t the type of songs to put on at a party, but are instead meant for those long road trips with friends, or on rainy days meant just for listening to music alone in one’s room.
Overall, “Wonderful Wonderful” proves that The Killers are as strong as ever, revitalizing their music while still staying true to their classic nostalgic vibe.
