IF only all rock albums were this much fun. Unlike so many side projects by successful artists, The Raconteurs are one to treasure.
The seed was sown after an impromptu songwriting session one hot summer between The Whites Stripes' Jack White and old friend Brendan Benson.
It produced the glorious slow-fast rock song, Steady As She Goes, and the inspiration for a full album.
Enlisting buddies Jack Lawrence on bass and Patrick Keeler on drums, a number of styles are tackled, from the drawling blues of Blue Veins to the explosive rock-out of Store Bought Bones and heartfelt lullaby of Together.
With a feral howl, White produces the best impression ever of Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant on the breathless title track, while uplifting rock romp Intimate Secretary stands out despite its nonsensical lyrics about "Japanese teapots".
Hopefully, The Raconteurs will have a few more stories to tell.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article