The Killers pictures from Artist Direct

"Red Harvest" by Bloodsimple

Bloodsimple's Red Harvest feels like it should have come out during rock 'n roll's glory days in the '60s and '70s. Instead, it just happens to be one of the most substantive and vibrant heavy music releases of 2007. Vocalist Tim Williams weaves lyrical tapestries of road-weary killers, drug addicts and outlaws over the course of 11 pummeling, but entrancing tracks. Are the requisite bludgeoning grooves and razor sharp riffs prominent? Yes. Let's not forget that Bloodsimple's ranks consist of veterans of the groundbreaking hardcore band Vision of Disorder—Williams and Mike Kennedy (guitar). Here, however, the band channels its brutality into a cohesive and focused narrative, with vibrant characters. Williams has possessed one of metal's most distinct voices since his days in Vision of Disorder, and on "Dead Man Walking," "Out to Get You" and especially "Truth," his vocals simply soar as he seamlessly switches from a guttural growl to a near-croon. Another

Published: 2007-12-11 Provider: Artist Direct

"Sawdust" by The Killers

For a compilation of b-sides, covers and rarities, Sawdust feels oddly complete. The album showcases some of The Killers' most intriguing and infectious fare and is more immediately accessible than their sophomore offering Sam's Town. In fact, the release almost could have served as the follow-up to the band's breakout debut, Hot Fuss, minus a bit of a shaky flow between songs. A collaboration with the legendary Lou Reed, "Tranquilize," features a slow, moody buildup to start the record. The Joy Division cover "Shadowplay" couples new-wave-style synths with an open-chord rhythm and driving chant. Meanwhile, "Leave the Bourbon on the Shelf" allows vocalist Brandon Flowers' pipes to take center stage and soar. Yet, the standout is "Glamorous Indie Rock and Roll," which channels some of the jaded humor that made "Somebody Told Me" a hit. Overall, The Killers' b-sides serve up New Wave for a generation weaned on Facebook and Myspace. Better them than most.

Published: 2007-12-06 Provider: Artist Direct