The Killers’ vocalist Brandon Flowers attempts to fly solo in his debut album Flamingo, but struggles to lift off from the ground on his own.
After seven solid years of The Killers producing three critically acclaimed albums, the Las Vegas native released his 10-track solo album. Proud of his hometown, the album title Flamingo derives its name from a downtown street in Las Vegas. Flamingo Street is symbolic to Flowers because it was the location of his first job, where he met his wife, and the casino, Sam’s Town, The Killers’ second album title. Flowers wrote the songs for Flamingo when he was on tour for Day and Age, The Killer’s third album.
While The Killers’ stunning front man captivates listeners with his upbeat vocals and flashy style, Flowers on his own lacks the entrancing momentum. His vocals are upbeat and quick in The Killer’s hit “Mr. Brightside,” from the album Hot Fuss, however, Flowers’ recent release encompasses tracks that blur together with a similar sound while failing to grab listeners’ attention. Though Flamingo consists of a relaxing tone throughout the album, none of the songs are catchy or memorable and they lack Flowers’ magnetic spirit found in his past efforts with The Killers.
Flowers’ songs sound the same and it is difficult to decipher the difference between some of them. His single “Crossfire” holds a steady beat but is anti-climatic, as the song never reaches a bold hook. It is a generic rock song that is missing the necessary upbeat elements of pop.
Flowers’ track “Hard Enough,” inspired by his wife, consists of generic lyrics that touch on the complexities of romantic relationships. Consistent with the theme of the song, Flowers is accompanied by Jenny Lewis, the main female vocalist from the band Rilo Kiley, who adds more believability and character to the song.
Unlike the rest of the album, “Was It Something I Said”? is a fast-paced tune with a catchy 80s vibe. The song’s upbeat pop style and story telling encompasses the similar sounds that The Killers usually produce. The lyrics draw the listener in with its vivid narration: “Me and Valentina went down to the chapel but the gates were shut/ I had my vows in my pocket and my gold plated ring for my honey love.” While the chorus is somewhat melodramatic, the song adds a little oomph to a disappointing album.
As a practicing Mormon, Flowers often references religion throughout the album. “Magdalena” is a song that embodies the long journey from Nogales to Magdalena in Mexico. “Blisters on my feet/ wooden rosary/ I felt them in my pocket as I ran.” Flowers sings the song with fervor as if he made the 60-mile march himself. While “Magdalena” subtly touches on religion, Flowers bases “Playing with Fire,” on his religious experiences. “This church of mine may not be recognized by steeple/ that doesn’t mean that I will walk without a God.”
Flowers said his work on Flamingo left him feeling exposed and lonely. While the lyrics to many of his songs are honest, the tracks’ overall tone is not inventive. Unfortunately many of his songs drag on, as original instrumentals are missing in his album. It seems that without the other members of The Killers, Flowers lacks that razzle dazzle that keeps him afloat in his past work. If Flowers wants to continue a music career, he would be better off with the rest of The Killers to survive in the industry.
2 out 5 stars
