Black Keys: El Camino

El Camino: The Black Keys' Commercial Triumph on Vinyl

Following the critical success of "Brothers," The Black Keys unleashed their seventh studio album "El Camino" in 2011—a record that would propel them to new commercial heights and cement their status in modern rock. Continuing their fruitful collaboration with producer Danger Mouse (Brian Burton), who also contributed to the songwriting process, the duo crafted a collection that brilliantly synthesizes musical influences spanning from the 1950s through the 1970s.

Sonic Character
The Nonesuch Records pressing of "El Camino" maintains consistency with the label's previous Black Keys releases in terms of sound quality. While audiophiles might desire greater detail retrieval, the pressing successfully captures the band's signature sound characteristics—particularly the muscular low-end punch and the distinctive top-end edginess that defines their sonic identity.

This isn't an album for contemplative late-night listening sessions. "El Camino" demands to be played at substantial volume, particularly when your mood aligns with its raw energy. When given the appropriate listening environment and volume level, the record reveals its full character and impact—a perfect soundtrack for those moments when you're feeling that same garage-rock edge that permeates these tracks.

Production Context
It's worth noting that even a hypothetical audiophile pressing of this material would likely maintain much of the same sonic character. The deliberately raw, garage-band aesthetic is fundamental to The Black Keys' artistic approach rather than a limitation of the pressing itself. Danger Mouse's production balances this rawness with just enough polish to make the songs radio-friendly without sacrificing their essential grit.

The Vinyl Verdict
As mass-produced modern vinyl goes, this Nonesuch pressing delivers solid performance that serves the material well. The pressing quality falls squarely within expectations for contemporary major-label releases—neither disappointing nor exceptional, but entirely adequate for enjoying the music as intended.

What truly makes this record worth adding to your collection is the exceptional quality of the songs themselves. From the infectious groove of "Lonely Boy" to the swaggering "Gold on the Ceiling" and the deceptively catchy "Little Black Submarines," "El Camino" represents The Black Keys at their most accessible while maintaining their distinctive musical personality.

For both casual fans and dedicated vinyl collectors, this pressing offers an engaging listening experience that, while not technically perfect, successfully delivers the energy, attitude, and hooks that made "El Camino" The Black Keys' mainstream breakthrough. Turn it up, let it rip, and enjoy one of the defining rock albums of its era. 💰

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