177) White Stripes - Elephant

The White Stripes were one of those bands that I could take or leave. I would hear something and like it but never felt compelled to buy or download anything they released.

Then I happened to a hear a little-known single they released called Seven Nation Army. That intro could not fail to reel anyone in, read Wikipedia to understand how Jack White did it, I have, I also have no musical ability and I have no idea what they are on about it but for my usual detailed reviews all I can say is what a riff.

This is an album of blistering guitar, basic drums White going off on one on vocals and Meg occasionally pitching in with a vocal.

Black Math is just the right side of dirty, thrashing along at a frantic level equally rough and ready with a few left turns here and there.

Remember the beauty of the music and the vocal on Dusty Springfield’s I Just Don’t Know What To Do With Myself well The White Stripes jump all over that. In the Cold. Cold Night you would have to say Meg is not a perfect singer, but I like the deadpan of the delivery and the minimal music.

Ball and Biscuit showcases Black’s guitar playing, the man can play the guitar, it goes on a bit for me but is expertly executed and The Hardest Button to Button is catchy as hell and I have seen Meg’s drum playing be criticised but think it fits perfectly here.

Hypnotize is basic and simple but drives along and lodges in the brain and Girl, You Have No Faith In Medicine is equally as simple. This is not to downplay the songs; White has found a formula on this album and is going with it.

It’s True That That We Love One Another we have Holly Golightly joining Jack and Meg on vocals as they all love and hate each other, it’s a slight ending to an enjoyable record where you feel Jack White knew exactly what he was doing.

7/10

GIVE IT A STREAM: Seven Nations Army