Review: The Killers’ debut still kills it

For any music fan, listening to the Killers’ debut is arguably a rite of passage. Rightfully so, as that debut album was “Hot Fuss,” released on June 7, 2004.

The album opener, "Jenny Was a Friend of Mine", plays out like a police interrogation of a suspect in the titular character's murder set to a catchy riff. Lead single "Mr. Brightside" is a simple yet infectious song about infidelity. "Smile Like You Mean It" deals with the dreadful realization that time moves faster than you want it to.


"Somebody Told Me" sounds like the perfect introductory song to a Killers novice thanks to the superb drum work from Ronnie Vannucci Jr. and dynamic vocals from Brandon Flowers. "All These Things That I've Done" brings in choir the Sweet Inspirations to help Flowers plead to God to help him through his pain. "Andy, You're a Star" features an old-fashioned sounding guitar riff that plays while Flowers questions his glorification of a jock peer.


"Change Your Mind" is a danceable track about struggling to accept rejection. "Believe Me Natalie" features a catchy drum beat behind Flowers' lyrics about mustering the courage to do what you want. "Midnight Show" reveals the murder of Jenny (from track 1) amidst a high octane rock arrangement.


"Everything Will Be Alright" depicts a last-ditch effort to mend a broken relationship, a concept complimented by the almost orchestral-sounding music and Flowers' desperate vocal delivery. Finally, "Glamorous Indie Rock & Roll" gives a very pop punk vibe as it mocks hipster fans of the titular music genre.


Overall, “Hot Fuss” is a strong debut for the Killers, filled with memorable songs that rarely miss the mark.

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