A&E

CD review: The Killers’ ‘Direct Hits’ is premature, predictable

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Do The Killers really need a hits compilation?
Williams + Hirakawa
Guys, "Mr. Brightside" is only 12 years old.

Guys, "Mr. Brightside" is only 12 years old.

A Killers hits compilation is certainly premature, considering its oldest song, “Mr. Brightside,” is only 12 years old. Even the Vegas foursome thought so, but cooperated anyway to ensure the stamp on this contract obligation and label cash cow was theirs. Most notable about the predictable 15-song (or 18 if you’re obsessed enough for the deluxe edition, the acquisition of which is justifiable only for the Strokes-ish “Brightside” demo) collection are the two new songs: “Shot at the Night” and “Just Another Girl.” M83’s Anthony Gonzalez works his studio magic on the former, an idealistic anthem that charms despite its John Hughes-soundtrack derivation. The latter is a rare production letdown from Stuart Price, and the sort of Bon Jovi glam that bogged down last year’s Battle Born. And speaking of that album, if Direct Hits has a non-capitalistic function, it’s putting a period at the sputtering end of an otherwise glorious, gem-filled run.

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