The Killers, Fire in Bone | Track Review 🎵

The Killers return with “Fire in Bone,” the worthwhile if somewhat quirky second single from the band seventh album, Imploding the Mirage.

The Killers nailed it with “Caution”, the alternative band’s first single since releasing Wonderful Wonderful in 2017.  “Caution” arrived as the promo single for Imploding the Mirage, one of a select few albums that hasn’t been pushed back (as of publication) due to the coronavirus pandemic.  Honestly, whatever single was set to follow “Caution” had an uphill climb – FACTS. With sufficient background, “Fire in Bone” is that record with an uphill climb that has a tough act to follow.  Is it as accomplished as “Caution?” Nope, but there are still pros for Brandon Flowers and company.

Starting with the pros, “Fire in Bone” features colorful production.  That production includes those atmospheric pads, robust bass line, and an absolutely infectious groove.  The ear candy is ample, which is typically the case with a The Killers record.  The same can be said of the ear candy vocally.  Brandon Flowers continues to be a capable and compelling frontman. He has a beautiful tone and conveys plenty of personality as he performs. His pitch is imperfect and wobbly at times, but at the same time, that’s been part of his charm over the years – beautiful flaws you might say.  To recap, the sounds and the vocals are two of the biggest selling points.

You could also add that “Fire in Bone” is a bit quirky – more unexpected than expected post-“Caution.”  Even if it’s ‘left of center’ in some respects, the form is pretty standard, save for an additional refrain section in addition to the chorus that reappears.  Lyrically, “Fire in Bone” has its moments as well like “I felt washed up / I felt tempest-tossed and seasick / But I felt fire in bone.” Some moments are simpler and more minimal early on, which sort of makes “Fire in Bone” slightly confusing initially.

Final Thoughts 

Again, just to reiterate, I sang the praises to the high heaven regarding “Caution” – what an alternative bop and great preface to Imploding the Mirage.  I’m not quite as enthusiastic about “Fire in Bone,” but I appreciate the number of musical things The Killers incorporate, as well as the fact it’s not quite what I expected.  It’s imperfect but definitely worth listening to.

The Killers • Imploding the Mirage • Island • Release: 5.29.20

Photo Credit: Island