The Black Keys

El Camino

First released2011

El Camino, the seventh studio album by The Black Keys, was recorded in 2011 at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama and other locations, building on the blues-rock foundation established by their previous album Brothers. The album was produced by the band members Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney alongside Danger Mouse (Brian Burton), who brought a more polished and accessible production approach compared to their earlier work. The production incorporated vintage recording techniques and equipment while integrating modern production elements, with Danger Mouse's influence contributing to a more radio-friendly yet still guitar-driven sound. The album marked a shift toward greater commercial accessibility without abandoning the band's blues-rock roots, featuring tighter arrangements and more prominent use of synthesizers and layered instrumentation. El Camino became one of The Black Keys' most commercially successful albums, reaching number six on the Billboard 200 and spawning the hit single Lonely Boy.