New Black Keys Album in Planning Stages

After an album is released, how soon should a follow-up be? For the Black Keys, the sooner, the better. El Camino, their latest, came out less than three months ago, and the duo is already plotting a follow-up. No actual recording has started, however.

Currently on the road in support of the Black Keys’ latest release, Dan Auerbach told Billboard a follow-up is in the works and that they’ll be hitting the studio at some point in 2012. He said: “We won't know 'til we get in there. We don't get to practice together on the road. We're always trying to write and keep ideas going, but where we're most comfortable is in the studio. I can't wait to get back in there."

A studio, for the Black Keys, is a variable concept. Although Auerbach’s Nashville studio Easy Eye Studio has experienced increased traffic, it’s not the sole location for the band. Instead, Auerbach explained: "But Pat [Carney] and I, we can record anywhere -- basements, abandoned buildings, studios. Location doesn't matter. All that matters is that it's Pat and I."

As far as the sound goes for their eight studio album, Auerbach says they don’t have a clear idea, as of yet.

Greater visibility from El Camino and its predecessor have resulted in bigger venues and larger stages for the Black Keys, Auerbach explained to Billboard. As a result, they have adjusted the visual aspects of their stage to take up the space. Unlike other groups who focus on current material, they have aimed to play songs from each album in their sets.

While currently in Europe, the duo is scheduled soon for the North American leg of their tour. After, they’ll return to Europe and then head off to Australia, while simultaneously starting the recording process.