Brief Album Reviews: The White Stripes – Icky Thump

Although The White Stripes new album Icky Thump isn’t even out yet, you have probably heard their noisy, bluesy, screechy, and unforgivably catchy new single “Icky Thump.” You know, the one with the staccato, almost sing-songy or childish guitar breaks that almost sould like it bagpipes emanating between super catchy White Stripes trademark blues grooves. Yeah, you know the song (if not, it’s available on iTun es right now, and is well worth the $.99).

If you are a White Stripes fan, or like good music of any kind, Icky Thump doesn’t disappoint. I always feel like the best albums, and the ones I end up liking forever, are the ones that take a few listens to really appreciate. Icky Thump is no exception. The first time through I was not all that excited about the album, but on the third listen, the magic present in Icky Thump made itself abundantly clear.

The track that really stands out for me is “Rag & Bone,” which is all about Jack and Meg either going to yard sales or just trying to get free stuff from people. Jack and Meg’s conversations in the middle of the song are what really do it for me, and actually make me laugh every time. Plus the combination of Jack’s groovy blues riffing and Meg’s incessantly catchy pounding really makes this song. It has the feel of classic blues rock, created for no reason except to groove your balls off. And it works beautifully.

That’s not to say that the other tracks aren’t equally strong. There isn’t a single song that I have started skipping, which says alot since I have probably been through this album close to ten times so far.

My recommendation is pick it up as soon as you can. You won’t be sorry.