VOTD: Jack White — ‘Freedom at 21’ because the video for the scuzzy blues single is like something out of a Tarantino film. Directed by Hype Williams (who recently helmed the seizure-inducing video for Kanye West’s ‘All of the Lights’), the blue-tinted video features a suited-up White racing down the streets in a lime green car, getting arrested by a scantily-clad cop, and then being taken to a jail that curiously only has beautiful women as prisoners. White’s videos haven’t been this sexy since 2003’s “I Just Don’t Know What to Do With Myself.” Plus, keep your eyes peeled at the end for a Josh Homme cameo.

REVIEW: Jack White - Blunderbuss

Jack White’s debut solo effort, Blunderbuss, is a collection of songs as widespread as the music that has made up his career so far. Complete with powerful speed-rockers like ‘Sixteen Saltines,’ contemplative love numbers like ‘Love Interruption’ and ‘Blunderbuss,’ psychedelic fuzz-box guitar solos, and a distinctly Jack White assortment of instruments. Keys (either in the form of a Fender Rhodes or an antique upright piano) play a prominent role in most of the songs on Blunderbuss, a noteworthy move from one of the greatest guitarists of our time.

Some of the most exceptional examples of White’s songwriting and composing are found at the end of this album. “On and On and On’ is a beautiful track that carries steadily through layered swells of instrumentation to a grand culmination. ‘Take Me With You When You Go’ continues in a similar fashion as almost a sequel to the previous track. The album shows two distinct styles of White’s repertoire; the front half lush with Americana instrumentation and sensibilities, but cut halfway through with guitar riffs thick with fuzz effects.

Jack White further proves that he is a musician robust with talent and experience on his latest effort. While many may make comparisons to his White Stripes masterpiece Elephant, his solo effort clearly indicates a new and equally strong point in his career.

-Nick Velleman