UPDATE 5.2.12: Blunderbuss is #1 on Billboard.
CONCERT UPDATE 4.28: At the end of this post I embedded the entire live concert directed by Gary Oldman. (Set List)
UPDATE 4.27: Jack White plays a live concert tonight directed by Gary Oldman. Go here to watch a preview video including music, discussion with Gary Oldman about the concert and Jack's two bands, and real blood.
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Wow. I'm really loving Jack White's first solo album, Blunderbuss (blunderbuss?). I don't often talk about albums outside of Music Mondays, but I felt compelled. Especially after watching some of the recent TV appearances, which had me giddy. You'll find some of them below.
This is a man who hasn't found his place of comfort, but his edge. If you've followed Jack for a while (White Stripes, The Raconteurs, The Dead Weather, Third Man Records), this isn't exactly a guy without an edge. I've loved everything he's done to a point. But there was always a point where I was sorta over it. I was glad to have his albums around to revisit from time to time, but it was cataloged. And I know it's still early, but Blunderbuss feels like a classic. I think I have to agree that Jack is "the coolest, weirdest, savviest rock star of our time" and he just might have created the best album of 2012.
Just a side note for those who cant "get" Jack White: Listen for Robert Plant in his voice. He's there. And I think the quirk that pushes some people away from White might suddenly disappear, at least for a few. And that little tip may just open your mind to a great album. I'm hoping so.
Jack White with all guy band on Jools Holland with "Sixteen Saltines"...
Jack on Jools with all girl band playing "Freedom At 21"...
Jack interviewed by Stephen Colbert, including a very funny section on Jack's business model and why the music industry is dying. Awesome...
Here's the full concert from Friday night, as I mentioned at the top of this post...
I totally hear Robert Plant, and good Robert Plant not lame era in the 80's Robert Plant. I'm digging this guy. Thanks for the heads up.
Posted by: Mike Leake | 04/27/2012 at 12:10 PM
Exactly, Mike. Thanks for letting me know that the Plant comparison helps.
Posted by: Steve McCoy | 04/27/2012 at 12:19 PM
Wow! I am already a fan of his but these videos just further show how Jack White is the real deal.
Posted by: Tpgraham | 04/27/2012 at 12:28 PM
TPG, yes! I had the same reaction.
Posted by: Steve McCoy | 04/27/2012 at 12:31 PM
After the first couple of listens through, I thought the album was "top-heavy." I am now starting to appreciate the second half, which even appears to have an Elton John influence of all things ("Trash Tongue Talker" = and not a bad thing at all). This album is growing on me considerably and i agree this will be one of the best released all year, although the new Beach House stuff is also sounding great! This album may be his best work since "Elephant."
Posted by: Jordan | 04/28/2012 at 10:35 AM
Jordan, helpful thoughts. I struggle often with the second half of generally good albums. The second half of this one, surprisingly, is what hooked me.
Posted by: Steve McCoy | 04/30/2012 at 11:00 AM