Single Review – The Black Keys ‘Lonely Boy’

Ohio based blues-rockers The Black Keys are back this December with their new album El Camino. After the success of their previous release Brothers, we’ve all been eagerly waiting to hear something new. This will be the duo’s seventh album, and after treating us to a comic trailer for the new record, involving a blundering car salesman, the band has now released the first glimpse of what to expect musically in the form of ‘Lonely Boy’.

Fans of the band will find instant pleasure in the tracks warm bluesy sound, whilst frontman Dan Auerbach’s signature fuzzy vocals drive the song forward, and intrigue new ears. As the tracks title suggests, there is a degree of bitterness towards an ex-girlfriend present, and with lyrics such as “I got a love that keeps me waiting/I’m a lonely boy,” you can hear Auerbach’s frustration. Drummer Patrick Carney hammers the superbly energetic, toe-tapping beat, which accompanies the catchy, distorted guitar riffs that are memorable for their simple yet powerful structure.

‘Lonely Boy’ is the perfect introduction to what could potentially be a cracking album, and with a fun, candidly shot video to go along with the track, it’s clear that the pair are using the power of the internet to their advantage. A great first listen from a first rate band.

By Rob Bramhill