The Black Keys ‘s new album hits the shelves here

The Black Keys

“El Camino”

(Nonesuch)

The blues-rock duo’s seventh studio album hit the shelves here on February after drawing widespread attention around the world. The new album, produced by Danger Mouse, is the follow-up to The Black Keys’ Grammy-winning 2010 album “Brothers.”

The duo gained popularity after their album “Brothers” became an international hit throughout 2010 and 2011. The band, formed in Ohio 10 years ago, says that they were influenced by different genres from hip-hop to rock and blues.

On “El Camino,” the band shows how rock ‘n’ roll influenced their musical world. Rolling Stone’s Will Hermes said it was “the Keys’ grandest pop gesture yet, augmenting dark-hearted fuzz blasts with sleekly sexy choruses and seventies-glam flair.” He gave the record four out of five stars. Michael Hann at the Guardian newspaper awarded the album five out of five stars, calling it the “year’s best rock ’n’ roll album.”

The album topped the iTunes album chart soon after it was released in the U.S. market. The album’s lead single “Lonely Boy” was No. 3 in the Billboard rock chart.

(christory@heraldcorp.com)


Legend, The Roots highlight ’Revolution‘

Various artists

“Soundtrack for a Revolution”

(Entertainment One)

The 2009 documentary film “Soundtrack for a Revolution” provided a glimpse of how music played an influential role as blacks fought for equality during the turbulent times of the civil rights movement.

Freedom songs from “We Shall Overcome” to “Wade in the Water” helped fuel the labor movement and became anthems in the black church. Songs like these are included on the 10-song soundtrack, finally released after a long wait over rights and clearances for the music, and are performed by a host of contemporary artists, including John Legend, The Roots and Mary Mary.

All of the songs have been heard before on infinite occasions, but none loses its original soulful luster with these new renditions.

The soundtrack flows smoothly, opening up with Mary Mary’s version of “We Shall Not Be Moved.” Wyclef Jean takes to his guitar and infuses his mild-mannered island rhythm on the thought-provoking track, “Here’s to the State of Mississippi.”

British soul singer Joss Stone’s soaring voice on “Eyes on the Prize”provides an inspiring idea of perseverance. On the piano-driven “Oh Freedom,” Vivian Green sings with pride and passion.

Each performer plays a part in capturing the essence of what the freedom songs stood for during the civil rights movement -- hardship, redemption and justice.

Check out this track: Legend, Stone, Mary Mary, Anthony Hamilton and The Blind Boys of Alabama collaborate on the jazzy approach on “We Shall Overcome.”

(AP)