What makes Killer by Dan Sultan notable?

The album received critical acclaim upon release, earning Dan Sultan a nomination for Best Male Artist at the ARIA Music Awards. It debuted at number six on the ARIA charts, highlighting Sultan's increasing popularity and influence within the Australian music landscape. Additionally, Killer played a pivotal role in placing contemporary Indigenous narratives into mainstream conversations through its lyrical depth. Killer is Dan Sultan's fourth studio album, released in 2017 after a successful run with his previous record, Blackbird. At this point in his career, Sultan was solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the Australian music scene, known for his dynamic performances and powerful songwriting. This album showcases his growth as an artist, featuring more polished production while retaining his distinctive sound.

Killer works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, short, engaging listening sessions and introspective reflective moments.

How many songs are on Killer?

Killer has 11 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Killer

Dan Sultan · 2017

39 min · 11 tracks · world music

A vibrant blend of rock and soul, infused with Australian storytelling and world music influences that captivate the listener.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Drover — This track opens the album with a compelling narrative that reflects on themes of journey and self-discovery, setting the tone for the entire record.
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Killer — The title track melds haunting melodies with introspective lyrics, encapsulating the emotional weight of the album while showcasing Sultan's vocal prowess.
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Should've Known — This song features a catchy chorus and explores regret and reflection, making it both relatable and memorable among the album's offerings.
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Magnetic — With its infectious rhythm and uplifting message, this track stands out as a celebration of connection and attraction, diversifying the emotional palette of the album.

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

Killer showcases strong songwriting and production, balancing energetic tracks with introspective moments.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm that shifts the album's energy.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The album closes with a stripped-back arrangement on 'Easier Man', contrasting with the fuller sound of earlier tracks and providing a reflective ending.

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
short, engaging listening sessions
introspective reflective moments
balanced emotional dynamics

Where this album fits

Career context: Killer is Dan Sultan's fourth studio album, released in 2017 after a successful run with his previous record, Blackbird. At this point in his career, Sultan was solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the Australian music scene, known for his dynamic performances and powerful songwriting. This album showcases his growth as an artist, featuring more polished production while retaining his distinctive sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Xavier Rudd· Paul Kelly· The Cat Empire