What makes Blood Pressures by The Kills notable?

Blood Pressures received positive reviews from critics, with many praising its sonic evolution and lyrical depth. It peaked at number 30 on the UK Albums Chart, marking a significant commercial performance for the band as they continued to gain recognition in the garage rock genre. Released in 2011, Blood Pressures was The Kills' fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed release, Midnight Boom. At this point, the duo was solidifying their place in the indie rock scene while experimenting with more polished production techniques.

Who is Blood Pressures for?

Blood Pressures works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Blood Pressures?

Blood Pressures has 11 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Blood Pressures

The Kills · 2011

41 min · 11 tracks · indie rock

Raw guitar riffs intertwine with sultry vocals, creating an intoxicating blend of garage rock and indie swagger.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Future Starts Slow — This track opens the album with a driving beat and haunting harmonies, encapsulating the Kills' signature sound while introducing themes of longing and uncertainty.
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DNA — With its catchy hooks and infectious energy, this song showcases the band's knack for blending dark lyrics with upbeat melodies, representing the album's overall tension.
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Baby Says — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics and moody instrumentation, highlighting a more vulnerable side of the band's songwriting while maintaining their edgy aesthetic.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, with varied pacing that enhances its overall impact.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature driving guitar riffs paired with a steady drumbeat, establishing a high-energy opening.
Tracks five through eight introduce more varied instrumentation, including synth elements that shift the sonic texture.
The final two tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a contrast with the earlier songs and allowing for a reflective conclusion.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative late-night vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2011, Blood Pressures was The Kills' fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed release, Midnight Boom. At this point, the duo was solidifying their place in the indie rock scene while experimenting with more polished production techniques.
Stylistic neighbors: Yeah Yeah Yeahs· The White Stripes· Interpol