Based on the Black Keys' shimmering blues-rock, few would have guessed that the Akron, Ohio, duo would spark a revival of rap rock. Blakroc, the group's rap-leaning side project, is a surprising foray for members Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney. But the pair's adept knowledge of hip-hop aesthetics on its self-titled album is even more shocking. Mixing nasty guitar leads with cavernous beats, the Black Keys have crafted a dark, sprawling opus that's convincing in its commitment to a unique sound. Stellar guest spots certainly don't hurt matters: Jim Jones weaves through a Mos Def hook on "Ain't Nothing Like You (Hoochie Coo)," while Raekwon continues his winning streak with "Stay Off the Fuckin' Flowers." Parts of "Blakroc" lack replay value, but when everything comes together conceptually, as on the R&B jam "Why Can't I Forget Him" (featuring Nicole Wray), the fusion of genres soars. Heavy collaborators aside, the Black Keys have taken an admirable risk on this spotty but highly entertaining album.-Jason Lipshutz
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Hot 100
Clarkson comes on 'Stronger'
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Billboard 200
Adele rules again.
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Country Albums
Tim McGraw debuts on top.
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Lana Del Rey is 'Born.'
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Radio Songs
Rihanna reigns.
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Dance/Electronic Albums
LMFAO is 'Rocking' it.
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Pop Songs
Flo Rida is 'Good.'
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Rap Albums
Drake 'Takes Care' of No. 1.
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Rock Songs
Black Keys top it.
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Digital Songs
Kelly Clarkson wins.
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