The Black Keys Announce New Album ‘No Rain, No Flowers’: A Nostalgic Journey Back to Their Roots
The Black Keys are set to release their 13th studio album, 'No Rain, No Flowers', on August 8th, promising a nostalgic return to their signature sound. Following the success of their 2024 LP 'Ohio Players,' the duo, comprised of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney, have unveiled the album's title track, offering fans a taste of what's to come. This album is described as a “labour of love,” hinting at the meticulous care and passion poured into its creation.
Recorded at Easy Eye Sound Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, 'No Rain, No Flowers' features collaborations with Grammy-winning songwriters Rick Nowels and Daniel Tashian, as well as legendary keys player/producer Scott Storch. Auerbach highlighted the unique contribution of Nowels, noting, “We’d never really collaborated with a keyboard player or someone who writes on piano the way he does, but it clicked immediately.”
According to an official description, the album is heavily influenced by the band's popular “Record Hangs,” dance parties where Auerbach and Carney spin rare vinyl cuts. This influence is evident in the groove-driven vibe of the new record.
The band revealed that to capture the old-school sound, they used a Universal Audio mixing desk from the early-sixties, late-fifties, a 610 tube desk. Carney explained, "Dan [Auerbach] acquired a Universal Audio mixing desk from the early-sixties, late-fifties. It's like the tube desk called a 610 and they’re very sought after." Auerbach jokingly added, "Yeah we were like, 'how can we make it sound s****y again?'"
The album includes previously released singles such as 'The Night Before' and 'Babygirl,' with 'No Rain, No Flowers' serving as the third single release. The laid-back and airy title track showcases a lighter, more summery sound, reminiscent of California beach days.
Tracklist for 'No Rain, No Flowers':
- No Rain, No Flowers
- The Night Before
- Babygirl
- Down To Nothing
- On Repeat
- Make You Mine
- Man On A Mission
- Kiss It
- All My Life
- A Little Too High
- Neon Moon
To support the album, The Black Keys will embark on a series of tour dates, including shows in North America, the UK, and Europe. They are scheduled to play three outdoor UK shows this summer, with support from Miles Kane. UK dates include Millennium Square in Leeds, Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, and Alexandra Palace Park in London.
Last year, the band faced challenges when they had to cancel their 2024 North American tour due to a dispute with their former management company. However, they bounced back with intimate shows influenced by their smaller performances in Paris and London. Carney also recalled working with Noel Gallagher on 'Ohio Players', referring to him as 'The Chord Lord' due to his perfectionism.
'No Rain, No Flowers' seems poised to be a significant addition to The Black Keys' discography, blending their signature sound with new influences and collaborations. Will this album solidify their status as rock icons, or will it mark a new direction for the band? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!