What makes Killer Under a Blood Moon by Dan Sultan notable?

The album received positive reviews from critics, highlighting its exploration of identity and belonging within the context of Australian culture. It debuted at number 3 on the ARIA charts, further establishing Sultan's impact on the Australian music scene and his role in promoting Indigenous voices. Released on May 18, 2018, 'Killer Under a Blood Moon' is Dan Sultan's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Blackbird' from 2014. At this point in his career, Sultan was solidifying his status as a prominent voice in contemporary Australian music, known for merging personal narratives with broader cultural themes.

Who is Killer Under a Blood Moon for?

Killer Under a Blood Moon works well if you're into steady progression with resolution, short, immersive listening sessions and heartfelt storytelling focus.

How many songs are on Killer Under a Blood Moon?

Killer Under a Blood Moon has 6 tracks, running approximately 23 minutes.

Killer Under a Blood Moon

Dan Sultan · 2018

23 min · 6 tracks · world music

A vibrant blend of rock, blues, and Indigenous Australian influences creates an evocative and soulful soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Drover — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its rich instrumentation and storytelling about life on the road, embodying the journey motif that permeates Sultan's work.
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My Kingdom — In this track, Sultan delves into themes of personal sovereignty and introspection, showcasing his vocal range and emotional depth against a backdrop of haunting melodies.
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Killer — The title track stands out with its powerful lyrics addressing darker themes while maintaining a catchy chorus, making it both impactful and memorable.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong songwriting and production, blending diverse influences while maintaining a cohesive theme.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a strong guitar riff that sets a rhythmic foundation, while the following tracks introduce varying instrumentation, including strings and percussion.
Vocal melodies often intertwine with instrumental lines, creating a call-and-response dynamic that highlights the Indigenous influences.
The EP features a consistent thematic exploration of identity across its six tracks, with lyrical content reflecting personal and cultural narratives.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 3/10

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 progression with resolution
short, immersive listening sessions
heartfelt storytelling focus
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on May 18, 2018, 'Killer Under a Blood Moon' is Dan Sultan's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Blackbird' from 2014. At this point in his career, Sultan was solidifying his status as a prominent voice in contemporary Australian music, known for merging personal narratives with broader cultural themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Xavier Rudd· Paul Kelly· The Cat Empire