There are a few bands in the last few years who've danced around Jack White's feet and in
his shadow, pretentiously trying to lock into the real spirit of blues-rock that possesses
the man. But nearly all of them have failed, and it's difficult to believe a 21st century
man or woman singing a blues rock number. Band of Skulls however make their entrance into
the genre seamlessly and undeniably believably natural. Crunchy, gainy riffs and solos give
us what we want from a blue album, but the lyrics and big choruses (take "Death by Diamonds
and Pearls" or "Fires") lend a 21st century indie twist to the whole shebang, making it so
much more accessible and real. It's scuzzy, sexy, unique and totally modern. Jack White
himself said in an NME interview earlier this year that the real underground music in 2010
can be found in "the blues". As far as I can see, Band of Skulls embody that.
Imagine if you will Jack White, the man himself, sat comfortable in a bar. Suddenly, several
young, scruffy looking Brits swagger in, mosey on up to Jack and challenge him to pistols at
dawn. That gives you an idea of what we've got with this album. |
