This review refers to
White Stripes (CD version).
This album, the first from the band, is often overlooked due to the fact they only really became successful with their second effort, 'De Stijl'. That is a criminal shame, as I think this album is the best they've recorded so far.
Perhaps the aspect of this album I enjoy the most is how raw it sounds. There is no over-production going on here as on some of the bands later albums, just pure, passionate rock music. Everything seems louder and more exciting. Meg's drums are much faster and more intricate, and Jack literally just shouts a lot of the lyrics.
There are a couple of more mellow songs, such as the beautiful 'Do', but the majority are heavier and faster than the bands more recent recordings. The influences of blues music is also more evident on this album, on songs like 'When I Hear My Name' and 'Suzy Lee' in particular.
Heavier, more passionate and more exciting - this remains the high point of the White Strips career in my eyes (and ears).
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