The White Stripes - Icky Thump (Third Man/Warner Music, 2007)

In late 2000, a relatively unknown two-piece band from Detroit played a series of shows in a number of small venues across Melbourne. One such show was at 9th Ward in the city, and though I'd only heard a couple of the band's songs, I was determined to see them play. For those in the know, there was a buzz surrounding their shows that I hadn't felt before.
Following a boozy afternoon drinking with friends, I managed to convince a few unsuspecting punters to come along to the show with me. Soon after we arrived - the club still only half-full - Jack and Meg White, dressed in red, took to the stage and put on a show of unabashed, bluesy, rock'n'roll that sticks in my head to this day as one of the coolest shows I have ever seen. Jack's screeching guitar and bluesy riffs; Meg's simple, but ever-effective drumming; the looks they shared that kind of creeped you out when you still thought they were brother and sister - all the key aspects of The White Stripes were already in place. It was an awesome display of rock'n'roll showmanship that left the audience sweaty, satisfied, and wanting more.
Fast forward seven years, and The White Stripes have just released their sixth album - Icky Thump - and are playing shows to crowds in the tens of thousands, as opposed to just the tens. If you like The White Stripes, you will love Icky Thump. Stronger than their previous album and full of rocking tunes such as the title track, Icky Thump, 300 M.P.H. Torrential Outpour Blues, and the playful, Rag And Bone, this album is a rocking good time.
The White Stripes have never claimed to be high art, they are simply two people coming together to play music that will have you tapping your feet and shaking your hips. Later this year I will see them play in an arena that holds 17,000 people, far more than that Melbourne night long ago, however, I am no less excited. Saviors of rock'n'roll they may or may not be, however, the importance of their contribution to rock'n'roll in 2007 is undeniable.

Check Out: http://www.myspace.com/thewhitestripes