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"Cités Interdites" is the first Killers album featuring sole original member and guitarist Bruno Dolheguy on vocals, and while this kind of compromise is often not for the best, I must say that I was agreeably surprised by the result. In fact, one could wonder why he didn't handle the vocal duties from the very beginnings of the band. This album contains a lot of variety, from very "metal", aggressive songs to very melodic stuff, and Bruno's voice adapts well to every situation. He seems to be very comfortable in his new dual role. The only thing that bothered me a bit on the vocal side are the choirs, which have too much of a girly sound to them, and they sound a bit pop-ish at times... Nothing to lose sleep over, but it's also difficult to ignore - it takes a few listens to get used to it.

Some of the songs are quite accessible, but still present some top-notch, expertly played music, like Killers have accustomed us in the past. Quite a good listen when you're in the mood for some "happy", mellower stuff. But don't relax too quickly just yet, as there are a number of much faster and aggressive songs on here as well. All in all, a good variety of compositions that make the album anything but boring. The ever-changing line-up (only the two guitarists left from the previous album) amazingly did not hamper the quality of the material, and judging from the playing on this album, they did a good recruitment job.

No metal anthem on this one, but there is a surprising cover of "L'aigle noir" (the Black Eagle), originally interpreted by French singer Barbara. Coincidentally, a French-Canadian artist (Marie-Carmen) covered the same song around the same time. This is a very slow song, but Killers gave it a little dose of steroids - enough to warrant its presence here, but without destroying the original either. Interesting.

Despite the multiple line-up changes, Killers have yet to deceive, delivering another good opus of hard rock and heavy metal. Recommended, just like the rest of their catalog.