Black Keys: Ohio Players

The influential rock duo The Black Keys have named their new album after the legendary funk band "Ohio Players". But for guitarist Dan Auerbach and drummer Pat Carney, the title is of course also a tribute to their homeland. It was clear to them from the outset that their twelfth album should be all about having fun. "Ohio Players" has therefore become a deliberately catchy record, as the pre-released singles leave no doubt. The Black Keys have invited an illustrious band of friends into the studio, who are crucial to the album's rich variety. Indie icon Beck had a hand in seven songs, including the feel-good track "Beautiful People (Stay High)". Another rock great, Noel Gallagher, can be heard several times on "Ohio Players". With feature parts by Memphis rappers Lil Noid and Juicy J, Auerbach and Carney's penchant for hip-hop has also found its way into the new songs. In other words, there are many influences that complement the typical Black Keys sound rather than watering it down. Dan Auerbach agrees: "When we work with others, it never feels like we're making any compromises. It's more like we're adding a special spice to the whole thing." This spice makes "Ohio Players" a varied and coherent album.