The Killers - 'Hot Fuss' (Island) Released 07/06/04

While UK is still dreaming of the old glory days waiting for the next nation’s savior, the American camp carries on countering with attack after attack. Look closer at the map, here we’ve got a band from Las Vegas that decided a couple of years ago, instead of losing its money in the casino, to become the next act that would attempt to kill boredom and superficiality.

OK...they might call themselves the Killers, but that's already become a ridiculous cliché, the band are one great big breath of fresh air into the music scene. Their debut, released through Island and mixed by Smashing Pumpkins collaborator Alan Moulder, comprises of eleven indie/pop/synth tracks (check references to: Duran Duran, Bowie, New Order, Primal Scream, Pulp, Cure, Psychedelic Furs) fighting to be the band’s follow up single after 'Mr. Brightside'. From the disco-driven tunes and boy-girl lyrics of 'Somebody Told Me' to the new wavish riffs of 'Midnight Show' and from the charming naiveté of 'Indie Rock 'n' Roll' to the anthemic gospel choir of 'All These Things That I've Done'. The Killers are already buzzing from the lips of every hipster and not without reason; this is fuss about something good for a change.