Jack White
No Name
Third Man Records [2024]
Album Overview: Jack White is renowned for his work with The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, and The Dead Weather. Known for his distinctive approach to rock and blues, he has also established himself as a solo artist and a key figure in the modern revival of vinyl records. Through his label, Third Man Records, White has maintained a strong commitment to analog recording techniques and physical media. No Name is Jack White’s latest album, initially appearing as an unmarked vinyl giveaway at Third Man Records stores. This DIY release strategy aligns with White’s penchant for surprising his fanbase. It is no surprise that No Name was recorded, produced, and mixed by White at his Third Man Studio throughout 2023 and 2024, pressed to vinyl at Third Man Pressing, and released by Third Man Records. What really makes this release special is that No Name could easily be Jack White’s best solo record to date and one of the best rock records released this year. Most of the songs hit harder than much of his recent material and have the same power as “Sixteen Saltines” from his solo debut Blunderbuss (2012). While I liked that record for its diversity, No Name is a more consistent, heavy bruiser type of listen with its lo-fi garage rock delivery. Every one of these tracks will absolutely rip live!
Musical Style: The album exhibits Jack White’s signature blend of rock, blues, and garage influences. It reflects his dedication to analog recording, providing a raw and authentic sound that resonates with his DIY ethos. No Name delivers a mix of gritty guitar riffs, robust rhythms, and White’s distinctive vocal delivery. This album could be the closest to his White Stripes catalog, minus the big hooks that some of those earlier tracks soar on.
Evolution of Sound: No Name continues Jack White’s evolution as an artist who constantly pushes the boundaries of his sound. While staying true to his roots, this album showcases his growth in production and mixing, leveraging the capabilities of his own Third Man Studio. The result is an energetic collection of tracks that highlight where he came from.
Artists with Similar Fire: No Name will fill any void for anyone looking for a solid rock record. Other artists that come to mind are MC5, early The Black Keys, The Strokes, Bass Drum of Death, Arctic Monkeys, The Mystery Lights, and Black Pistol Fire. These artists all share a similar rock foundation.
Pivotal Tracks: Key tracks on No Name include the opening track “Old Scratch Blues,” which hits you with towering drums and White’s classic howl. “Bless Yourself” blasts you with a killer riff that should have every head nodding and fist in the air when played live. “That’s How I’m Feeling” is a grooving slow burner that turns into a raging inferno as every instrument attempts to blow out your speakers at once. “What’s The Rumpus?” is a stylistic zinger with a great foot-tapping pace, repetitive callouts, running guitar solos, and some vocal interplay that makes it memorable. “Tonight (Was A Long Time Ago)” is another solid guitar-driven song, while “Bombing Out” is a wild, distorted track that at times hits metal speed.
Lyrical Strength: The lyrics on No Name reflect Jack White’s introspective and often enigmatic writing style. Tracks with themes of identity, creativity, and the human experience offer a deep and thought-provoking listening experience. White’s ability to blend his storytelling with the shredding on No Name remains a highlight of his work.
JACK WHITE REVIEW HISTORY
Entering Heaven Alive (2022) / Fear Of The Dawn (2022) / Boarding House Reach (2018) / Acoustic Recordings 1998-2016 (2016) / Live From Bonnaroo 2014 (2015) / Lazaretto (2014) / Live On The Garden Bowl Lanes (2013) / Live At Third Man Records (2014) / Blunderbuss (2012)
JACK WHITE LINKS
Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Third Man Records
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