Jack White
Blunderbuss

I am here to review the first great rock album of this season and the author could only be Jack White, the legitimate heir to the great tradition of the past from Led Zeppelin to the Rolling Stones, with his first solo album. It's surprising that only at the dawn of 36, the former White Stripes artist is releasing his first "solo album", a record that demonstrates the full maturity now reached by the artist who in this "Blunderbuss" (the name comes from an ancient firearm similar to the blunderbuss) ranges from rock to blues, from garage to folk, showcasing his talent and great versatility.

The first half of the album is of very high level. The first three tracks are the most rock: the Doors-like "Missing Pieces", the most White Stripes-esque track of the batch "Sixteen Saltines", and the simple and beautiful riff of "Freedom At 21" on which White enjoys singing-rapping like never before. It is followed by a trio of unforgettable ballads: the first single "Love Interruption", the waltz of the title track, and the heartfelt "Hypocritical Kiss" in which the reference to the recent separation from his wife Karen Elson is clear. In the second part, the album veers onto more pop paths and tends to drop a bit in level. Nevertheless, the cover of Little Willie John's "I'm Shakin'", the light Paul McCartney-style melody of "Hip (Eponymous) Poor Boy", and the concluding "Take Me With You When You Go" where a mean and distorted riff perfectly fits into a sweet gospel hymn, are still appreciated.

As I was saying, a mature and versatile work that might wrinkle the nose of some White Stripes fans but confirms, if there was a need, the timeless talent of Jack White.

Key tracks: "Sixteen Saltines", "Freedom At 21", "Love Interruption", "Hypocritical Kiss", "Take Me With You When You Go".