The Killers x3
Nathan Beauchamp | Oak Park, IL USA | 11/25/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"When the Killers released Sawdust in the middle of 2008, just four years after their first album Hot Fuss there were many that felt it was just 'too soon,' for them to release a b-sides collection. After all, how much b-side material can you really have in a stretch covering just two albums? It's likely that many will say the same thing about this repackaging of their first two studio albums and the b-side collection. Is it really fitting to be producing a collection or '3 pack' when the band is so new? I'll leave that to others to argue about.
The Killers are quite simply one of the best bands to come in the last 10 years or so, with a fresh, intelligent, and fun variety of synth-pop, alternative rock, and genre bending tunes that I (and many others) have come to love. If you don't own any of their albums but like them, this collection seems like a no-brainer. If you're a serious music fan, it's likely you already own at least one Killers album, and that makes this a much tougher purchase to pull the trigger on. It would be nice (and profitable for the producers) if this collection came with a few new tracks, or live recordings not found elsewhere to entice the dedicated fan to make the purchase.
Realistically, this release is more about marketing than providing real value to a hardcore Killers fan. This collection's release date was intentionally tied to the release of their newest album "Day & Age." For any new fans who are introduced to The Killers through Day and Age, this is a 'catch-up' collection. This works out pretty well for the fans, as Sam's Town, Hot Fuss, and even Sawdust are superior albums to their newest release.
If you know of the Killers, like them, but don't own any of their albums, take the plunge and do more than just 'dip your feet in.' You won't be disappointed."
Terrific Collection!
Philip Masiakowski | Milwaukee, WI USA | 12/11/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hot Fuss, the debut album of The Killers, was a mid-2000s hit that featured "Mr. Brightside," their first (and to date, only) top 10 hit in the U.S., and "Somebody Told Me," the energized disco smash that hit the sports arenas a few years ago.
Sam's Town, the sophomore follow-up, was a progression by the band away from the energetic, dance-flavored pop and a step towards developing their own unique style, highlighted by old school rock 'n roll and brilliant lyricism. It takes longer to appreciate Sam's Town than it does Hot Fuss, and when you fully do, it still might not measure up to their brilliant debut, but it is worthy in its own right. Features the anthem "When You Were Young."
Sawdust was a 2007 release that bridged the gap between the band's second and third studio albums with mostly B-Sides and a few new songs, including singles "Tranquilize" and "Shadowplay." Not outstanding, but a cool reward to the fans for following the band from the beginning.
This collection is a terrific collection, particularly since it came out the day of their third studio album, "Day & Age." Together with that album, this offers a great blend of indie rock, disco, and new wave.
It should also be noted that, on Sawdust, the band included "Move Away" from the Spider-Man 3 soundtrack, but on the initial release of Sawdust, a rare demo version was included. This was a mistake on the part of the record label. The proper version from the Spider-Man 3 soundtrack is included on Sawdust as released in this box set.
A great buy for anyone who wants to have some fun."
Great Killers collection!
Shyam Sundar | Seattle, WA USA | 01/15/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was introduced to Killers after buying the "Day & Age" album on sale at Amazon mp3 downloads. Before that I have listened to them to some of their hits on the radio. I was pretty impressed with the quality of songs in the Day & Age album. But what did it for me is seeing them live at Seattle's "Deck the hall ball" holiday concert. They incredibly energetic and they do know how to put on a great live show. I bought this after the concert and was very happy with my purchase. All three albums are packed with great hits. I would highly recommend this to any music fan!"