Brandon Flowers – The Desired Effect

After launching his solo career in 2010, Brandon Flowers, lead vocalist of The Killers, finally releases his second studio album The Desired Effect, produced by Ariel Rechtshaid.

The album opens with the instantly upbeat, light-hearted number Dreams Come True, which optimistically sets the tone for the rest of the compilation. In contrast to The Killers’ sound, there’s a strong resemblance to the typical 1980s-1990s pop style prominent here, making any fan of this era feel slightly nostalgic. Several contemporary artists have pulled inspiration from this period recently; in Flowers’ compositions, everything from the synthesisers and drum beat to the backing vocals has a likeness to these years.

Evidence of Flowers’ influences can be heard throughout the album, including the likes of The Pet Shop Boys and Peter Gabriel. Bruce Hornsby is even recorded playing the keyboard on a couple of tracks.

Fans will be pleased to hear the familiar, best-selling single Can’t Deny My Love as the second track on the album. The melody, harmonies and rhythm of the piece are altogether reminiscent of another time, creating a catchy tune that makes the listener want to play it repeatedly. Of the four singles Flowers has already released from the album, Lonely Town in particular sounds like it could be from a cinematic soundtrack; the lyrics certainly compose a movie scene in the mind’s eye of the listener. The mood is carefree and uncomplicated, making it a pleasantly easy song to listen to. Further into the album, the modern take on rock ‘n’ roll over a walking bass line in Diggin’ Up the Heart causes an urge to dance that cannot be resisted.

Flowers branches out slightly with Never Get You Right, bringing some exotic Middle Eastern sounds in to fill out the sound and create a bit of variety. One can imagine sitiing on a beach at sunset listening to it. Winding down, the last track The Way It’s Always Been has a much slower tempo to conclude. Altogether, the album is a good listen and most people will quickly find their favourite tracks. Joyous, unburdened optimism speaks out through The Desired Effect.

Emily D’Silva

The Desired Effect was released in the UK on 18^th May 2015, for further information or to order the album visit here.

Watch the video for Can’t Deny My Love here: