"Turn Blue," the eighth studio album from American rock duo The Black Keys, is a testament to the band's evolution and their knack for crafting compelling, atmospheric rock music. Released on May 12, 2014, via Nonesuch Records, this album marks their fourth collaboration with producer Danger Mouse, following the massive success of their previous album, "El Camino." The Black Keys, consisting of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney, have once again pushed their boundaries, delivering a record that is both moody and captivating.
"Turn Blue" features 11 tracks that blend blues rock, garage rock, and modern blues, all wrapped in a hazy, introspective vibe. The album opens with the mournful slow-burner "Weight of Love," setting the tone for a collection that is both soulful and introspective. Standout tracks like "Fever" and "Gotta Get Away" showcase the duo's signature raw energy, while songs like "Year in Review" and "Bullet in the Brain" delve into deeper, more atmospheric territories.
The production on "Turn Blue" is meticulous, with a distant and subdued sound that adds layers of depth to each track. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound in Hollywood and features additional recording sessions at Key Club in Benton Harbor, MI, and Easy Eye Sound in February 2014. Mastered at Magic Garden Mastering in Los Angeles, the album's sound is polished yet retains the gritty edge that The Black Keys are known for.
Critics have praised "Turn Blue" for its consistency and grip, with Mojo magazine hailing The Black Keys as "the most vital rock band in the world right now." Rolling Stone described the album as a significant step forward, highlighting its gripping and atmospheric qualities. With "Turn Blue," The Black Keys continue to solidify their status as innovators in the rock genre, offering a record that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
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