Blunderbuss is the solo debut album from the prolific, multi-instrumental Jack White. Like a lot of people, I had very high expectations for this album, and it did not disappoint. The first song I heard from this album was ‘Sixteen Saltines’ on triple j around a month ago , the first riff of Sixteen Saltines made me excited for was to come, it contained White’s signature tone that we all know and love, this combined a classic blues/rock song structure, a fast-paced nature and White’s fantastic vocals left me wanting so much more, a pure tease. However I did not listen to any of the other singles that he brought out before he released the album due to wanting to consume the album in one sitting.
I got my hands on the album a couple of days ago and have already listened to it multiple times. The album opens with ‘Missing Pieces’ , this is an extremely strong introduction to the album it sets a mood to what the rest of the album will be like, as I like to describe it a Blues filled Rock theme park with a hint of Folk. The progression on this album is outstanding when you think you have figured it out he throws a very swing orientated song like ‘I’m Shakin'” that you just can’t help but get up and dance to.
In February 2011, The White Stripes broke up due to ‘Musical Differences’ and ‘Not wanting to continue’, personally I think this has been the best move Jack White has ever made, what is clear through other projects of White’s such as The Dead Weather, it shows that he has been completely held back by the simple musicianship of Meg White. Jack White is now exploring the foundation that is music by creating an album so rich in influences that it can melt the brain. This is an album that everyone should hear at least once and take a trip through Rock history. In an age where rock is dominated by the Nickleback’s, Blunderbluss is such a breath of fresh air, I give it a 8.5 out of 10
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