Dropout Boogie CD

Last time out, The Black Keys attempted to go back to their roots with a covers album that was noticeably fuzzier and more raw sounding than many of their sets over the last decade or so. Dropout Boogie, their latest full-length, largely takes a similar approach, albeit with original songs rather than covers. There are still outside musicians involved - their early sets were recorded with just guitar, drums and vocals - but the sound is closer to the funk-fuelled garage-rock with which they first made their name. It's an enjoyable romp all told, with strong songs, hooky choruses and rip-roaring guitar riffs to the fore. Interestingly, some of the recordings are one-take wonders, something that adds extra impetus, energy and excitement to the album.