The misunderstood rock album that became a cult classic

Food & Drink · Published 9 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Released in 2006, The Killers' second album, Sam's Town, initially split critics. While some found it painful, others saw a masterstroke. Today, it is celebrated as one of the 21st century's best rock records, proving that time can turn a misunderstood underdog into a classic.

Released on September 27, 2006, Sam's Town marked a significant sonic evolution for The Killers. Frontman Brandon Flowers intended the record to chronologically capture the experiences that shaped him. Moving away from the heavy auto-tune used on their debut, Hot Fuss, Flowers sought a more authentic vocal performance, resulting in a sound heavily influenced by artists like Bruce Springsteen, U2, and The Beatles. The title is inspired by a Las Vegas hotel and casino. Additionally, the cover art features a desert bighorn sheep.

The album's reception was deeply polarized. The New York Times described it as "painful," and Rolling Stone offered a two-star review, suggesting the band's attempt to emulate Springsteen was a mistake. Conversely, The Observer's Dan Martin awarded it five stars, calling it a "masterstroke." Despite these initial critiques, the album has achieved massive commercial success, selling almost five million copies worldwide as of August 2016. The record debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200. It has since earned multi-platinum certifications across several countries.

Over time, the narrative surrounding the album shifted. Once viewed through the lens of its initial backlash, Sam's Town has gained a cult following and is now lauded as a classic. Rolling Stone's audience named it the decade's most underrated record in 2009, while Q magazine placed it at number 11 among the 21st century's finest albums. This transformation highlights how time can reframe a misunderstood work into a celebrated cornerstone of rock history. A limited edition remastered double vinyl was released to mark its tenth anniversary. Later, special anniversary reissues were launched in 2026.

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