But for all their proficiency in the area, EODM aren't just playing genre karaoke. The playful shake and stomp of "Solid Gold," Hughes' note-perfect Lux Interior impression on "Chase the Devil," even an out-of-left-field stab at acoustic country-blues called "Bag o' Miracles," all point to an impressively wide musical range and contribute to the album's loose, fun, freewheeling atmosphere. "Fun" is the key word here: it's the secret to the Eagles of Death Metal's artistic success, and the reason why almost everything on Death by Sexy works. If it's fun, Hughes, Homme and company will do it, and chances are they'll do it well.
Once in a while, of course, their more half-baked ideas will fall a little fast. "The Ballad of Queen Bee and Baby Duck," a Beefheart-flavored attempt at self-mythology about romantic couple Homme and Dalle, wears thin after just a few listens, while "Eagles Goth" leans too far toward parody, all muffled vocals and fuzzed-out guitar with little substance to back it up. But minor setbacks like these can't keep the Eagles from blowing away the competition when it comes to pure, simple, party-ready rock. And if a description like that will make the "honesty" Nazis turn up their noses, just tell 'em not to let the door hit their ass on the way out.
Reviewed by Zach Hoskins
Article comments
1 - Steve C.
Two things:
1) This album is pretty great, and
2) Anyone who takes Pitchfork seriously should be euthanized.
2 - Megan
Actually, indie kids don't listen to the Rolling Stones. Music began with the creation of Joy Division remember?
Before then it was just wolves, plagues, and banjos.