Election Day / Live 2020

Mood Music |

Jack White Trio | "Don't Hurt Yourself, Ball n Biscuit, Jesus is Coming" |

The medley of songs was fueled by a rock'n and powerful three-piece. Jack White reminded everyone why live music is so infectious. Make no mistake, live music is something we long for, it's vital to our souls. 

His squealing guitar was an onslaught of arrows, every squall piercing with inflection. The drummer added force and measure, remaining constant and attached to White's timings. Bass players do as bass players do, their job, holding it down, yet full of capacity. Their collective sound was minimal yet cavernous and banging. Though there were abrasive elements, welcomed by this listener, it was approachable, understandable. 

The lyrical change-ups during "Jesus..." were dutifully scripted for the here and now. Different segments showcased the band's abilities, energy, timing, power and emotion. Raw, dripping in talent and hard work, shredding, they were just what I needed. Thanks Jack White. Long Live Live Music.

Vote!

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Current Mood...OR

Loretta Lynn & Jack White | "Portland, Oregon" | Van Lear Rose

Oregon is calling me.

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Jack White | Acoustic in AK

Now that he's performed in every state, Jack White has decided to share that experience with members of The Vault. Mr. White quips, "how Ya feel Alaska, I just thought I'd ask ya?" When Jack decided to embark on a mini-acoustic tour, covering the final five states he'd yet to please, I wonder if he decided instantly to put (some) these shows on wax? The final destination-states were North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Idaho and Alaska. Tickets were sold at each venue's box office for a whopping price of $3—only one ticker per patron. You had to be a cool customer.

Vault package #28 features a double LP, pressed on icy blue vinyl, of the band's performance at Boise's Egyptian Theater. Third Man then filmed their performance in Anchorage, offered now as a DVD. Additional treats for the senses include a 52 page picture book and two Risograph photo prints. Third Man always hooks it up proper. Subscriptions to The Vault are always available and the additional perks are awesome.

Sugar Never Tasted So Good | Jack White

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Third Man Records | Vault Package #26

The White Stripes

The first White Stripes record accessible to the masses came in 1999. Third Man Records has released the bait to their latest limited package. This Vault only release is titled, The Cass Corridor Collection: Live at the Gold Dollar Vol. III. This early show at Detroit's Gold Dollar is a vital piece to The White Stripes raw beginnings. Volumes I and II from this same Motor City bar were previously released on Vault #13.

Highlights from this February night include covers, "Stop Breaking Down" and "One More Cup of Coffee." Other songs showed up for the first time such as, "Suzy Lee" and "Astro." A medley near the end consisting of, "Cannon/John the Revelator/Grinnin' in Your Face," have me eagerly awaiting this vinyl. Sign up for your very own Vault membership and enjoy a plethora of audiophile goodies each quarter. Vault Package #26 includes a blood-red 180 gram record, a 7" Dead Weather single, a recreation of Jack's original flyer for the show, two glossy photos of the band and a hand-written set list, plus a Third Man Records enamel pin. I can't wait to get this Vault Package. Enjoy.

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Dodge & Burn

The Dead Weather are capable of many things, rocking out happens to stand at the front of the line. Their music blasts harder than anything this side of metal, without diluting the talented musicianship that creates said sound scape. Also, why would anyone want to stifle Alison's voice? Dodge & Burn, their latest release, features 12 tracks and is available September 25th. They recently gave us a look-see at one of the upcoming tracks. This visual component is a reminder of just how visceral this band can get. With no tour yet planned, one can only hope they take this show on the road. Until then, check out Third Man Records.

The Dead Weather | "I Feel Love (Every Million Miles)" | Dodge & Burn



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Forecast: Dead Weather

Third Man Records | Vault 25

They're back— Jack White, Alison Mosshart, Dean Fertita and Jack Lawrence are set to release a new Dead Weather record, Dodge & Burn. Lucky subscribers to The Vault, Third Man's one-of-a-kind mail-order service, will be treated to a limited edition copy of the LP. Multi colored vinyl, exclusive alternate cover art and a limited bonus poster are what set this release apart from the worldwide arrival in September.  Recorded in Nashville, Dodge & Burn will showcase eight brand new songs, along with four other remastered tracks that were released as 7" singles (Vault #18 & #21). Vault package #25 also includes another 7" single and a deck of custom playing cards! Below are some clips from the upcoming album. Enjoy and subscribe. 

The Dead Weather | Dodge & Burn sampler



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American Epic

American music is an art form, and perhaps, our greatest contribution to culture. Creativity has always been the most beautiful mark left on any era. A partnership between PBS and the BBC will spotlight the history of America's rich harmonic landscape. Producers of this three-part documentary have replicated the machinery used in the 1920's—the same equipment that captured the bedrock sounds that would later deliver us into rock n roll, pop, R&B, and hip hop. This project marks the first time in nearly 80 years that recording artists will have the opportunity to work with such primitive technologies. The list of contemporary musicians involved is staggering. Third Man Records is reportedly releasing a vinyl box set as well. Both the film and the music are set for release this fall. The teaser below is enough to pique my interest. Enjoy.

American Epic



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Under Amazonian Lights

Live Under Amazonian Lights | The White Stripes

Third Man Records is currently delivering Vault package number 23, Live Under Amazonian Lights. This 2005 White Stripes performance marked the first ever rock show at the Grand Teatro Amazonas Opera House in Manaus, Brazil. Locally described as, "deliciously irresponsible," history has favored this night as one of The White Stripe's most celebrated live achievements. 

Also included is a DVD. Hopefully captured on film is Jack and Meg wandering outside the Opera House. They played a song for the masses who had assembled outdoors. There's a 7 inch single as well—"Let You Down," is the A side and, "Aint No Sweeter Than Rita Blues," an outtake, is the B side. Newly designed postcards, from award-winning artist Rob Jones, are joined by an enamel pin and a silk-screen printed White Stripes poster. All of these goodies can be stashed inside of the custom telescoping vinyl box. Holy F, this is going to be awesome. Long live Third Man Records. 

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Jack, the Raconteurs & Loretta

At a recent concert in Jack White's adopted home of Nashville, he invited some friends onto the Bridgestone Arena stage. Then they proceeded to annihilate. First out was his other band, the Raconteurs. This hybrid of old and new meshed well as they tore through songs from both Raconteurs albums. It should be noted that his newest ensemble also shreds—of course they do.

Van Lear Rose was released more than decade ago, whoa. Jack's fingerprints were all over that record. So when he welcomed Loretta Lynn out for a couple of numbers it seemed only fitting that they dive into "Portland Oregon." The pace was rocking, perhaps a bit out of the norm, in terms of tempo, for Lynn. White, the gentleman that he is, offered her some guidance when she repeated a verse. Regardless, this song is an all-time favorite of mine. Slow gin fizz, come on. Loretta remained on stage as Jack Coaxed her into singing, "Whispering Sea," a rarity from her earliest recordings. What a night in Nashville. Long live Third Man.

Jack White & Loretta Lynn | Nashville, TN | 01.28.15


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ps. I'm picking the Seahawks.

Sing Me a Song

There were a lot of great records released this year. That creativity spawned numerous songs worthy of making the multitude of lists that laud the best of the best. My personal picks for favorite songs of 2014 are below. They are...

Low Roar | 'Nobody Loves Me Like You'


The Barr Brothers | 'Love Ain't Enough'


Spoon | 'Inside Out'


Sturgill Simpson | 'Turtles On the Way Down'


Jack White | 'High Ball Stepper' (Live | Open'er Festival 2014)


Benjamin Booker | 'Kids Never Grow Old'


Thanks for checking in. Next up will be a list of oat sodas and barley pops.

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Jack-Pot

Third Man Records Telescoping Box & 3 LP's | Vault #22

Third Man Records will be delivering perhaps its most epic vault release to date, number 22. Jack White absolutely destroyed the Bonnaroo Festival this past summer. So guess what? He's reminding us all with an absolutely insane vault-only treasure. This memorable performance will be brought to audiophile life on three LP's. Mixed by in-house engineering guru Vance Powell, the white, blue, and black vinyl will transport us into this two hour and forty-five minute bender.

Third Man has decided to include a full-length DVD of the concert as edited by Brad Holland. Four high-end, collectible 8x10 photographs will also be tucked in carefully. In addition, there will be a Jack White patch, tour poster, and replica backstage sticker. Last but not least, the custom USB with super-secret extras. Not bad for a subscription to The Vault. The deadline to subscribe and still receive this bounty is October 31st.

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Third Man Records | Vault #21

Third Man Records | Vault #21

Next up in the pipe-line of Third Man Records are choice cuts from The White Stripes. The Vault is a yearlong gift that keeps me eagerly waiting for each quarter's treasure. Vault #21 is titled, Live Under the Lights of the Rising Sun. This double LP will tell the story of The Stripes' first-ever overseas journey. Not only will there be 31 stunning tracks from two complete live shows, but a collection of photos from the performances that have gone unseen for nearly 14 years will accompany the vinyl. An additional treat in the form of a 7" record will be our first exposure to new songs from Dead Weather. And just in case Mr. White hasn't given Vault members enough, there will be a Third Man Records flag added for good measure. Thanks be to Nashville—long live Third Man Records. Below is a small sample.



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First Aid Kit

This folk duo from Sweden will repair your wounds with their angelic voices. First Aid Kit has matured in sound and acclaim since their emergence on YouTube in 2008. The two sisters have honed their craft with unique elegance, separating their music from the other noise. In 2012, the single "Emmylou" proved to be a coming-out of sorts in regards to their song-smithing. Since then, Johanna and Klara have moved into the consciousness of their peers. They have recorded with Jack White, Conor Oberst, and fellow Swede, Lykke Li. On November 13th they'll grace the Fox Theater in Oakland. Here's to the Söderberg sisters' willingness to tackle a Jack White song in their own vernacular.

First Aid Kit | Covering: Love Interruption (Jack White)



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So Far So Good 2K14

Symbol Audio

Summer is once again in full-swing. As initiated last year, "So Far So Good" is back with a look at my favorite records up to this point. Warm weather is always a great back-drop for the music of our choice. Below is a quick-hitting list of the tunes holding my attention. Again, I will revisit this topic near the end of 2014 to give a complete wrap-up of records. Thanks to the artists who create for us all. Enjoy.

Jack White | Lazaretto
Mr. White spent more time and attention to detail in the production of this record, breathing fresh life into his library of rocking sound. It's still a ripping Jack White album at it's inner core. Few people can hold a candle to this guy's fire. He's a true artist whom I'm always interested in hearing. Play Lazaretto from beginning to end and then listen to it again. The video below is a performance of the title track from Glastonbury.



Ikebe Shakedown | Stone By Stone
I haven't been able to wear this record out. The bold texture of Shakedown's sound is a lush update on  the pillar of music that is Afro-Cuban. The jazz funk/world beat hybrid is just so contagious. The Offering (below) is the initial song that gets this record going. Play Stone By Stone in its entirety—every track is full of summer and momentum.



Sturgill Simpson | Metamodern Sounds in Country Music
A modern day country artist who actually plays real country. Sturgill emits a gutsy, outlaw vibe, which is awesome if it's genuine. The whole record captures its listeners. Just play 'em all. The track below, Turtles All the Way Down, is the first song on the album.



Shamir | NorthTown EP
Moving to NYC from outside of Las Vegas, Shamir brings richness to minimalistic production. The androgyny of the vocals is beautiful and individualistic. The five installments on this EP almost feel like two halves. The first two tracks, If It Wasn't True and I Know It's a Good Thing (below), are in my heavy rotation.



Iggy Azalea | The New Classic
Too many hits not to give it praise. C'mon—white Australian female rapper who currently dominates the charts? Regardless of her production team, it's pretty cool. I'll admit, some of her tracks are just SO club-tastic that I can't deny it. Check out bangers such as Work, Black Widow, and Fancy (below).



Beck | Morning Phase
This album is the belated sibling to Sea Change, down to the cover art. When I listen to Beck's mellower tunes I feel a sense of appreciation. Side A feeds into that somber recognition, but the real caloric intake is on side B. The sounds are within reach, like soft, low-hanging fruit. Songs such as Turn Away and Country Down (below) embody this ripe-for-the-picking sentimentality.



Honorable Mention
Lykke Li | I Never Learn
Ray LaMontagne | Supernova

There are a host of other albums that have yet to drop. Here are a few of them: TV On the Radio (hopefully this year), Wilco (could be this year), Best Coast, My Morning Jacket, Shovels & Rope, Jeff Tweedy, and Spoon.

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Jack White, Lazaretto & the Future of Storytelling?

Jack White | Lazaretto

Jack's back with an ultra new solo record. On June 10th White will release Lazaretto via his Third Man label. For those of us who love to hear someone rocking out, there aren't too many shredding harder than this hyper-talented innovator. The first offering from the album is, "High Ball Stepper." This latest LP is the result of Jack digging even deeper into his bag of tricks. The "Ultra" version will be pressed on 180 gram vinyl and will include two hidden tracks beneath the center labels. No need to peel away in order to listen — genius. One of the hidden gems will play at 78 rpm, while the other will perform at 45rpm, creating a three-speed record. There will be dual-groove technology implemented on the track, "Just One Drink", allowing for the dichotomy of an acoustic and electric track, depending on where the needle is dropped. As it continues to spin the grooves eventually meet, thus meshing the two sounds into one for the duration of the song. Both sides are pressed in a flat-edge format and will end in locked grooves for continual play. Side A will offer up the first ever Dead Wax area, which will house a hand-etched hologram by artist Tristan Duke. The vinyl addition also has a varied running order and implements some different mixes. As a Vault member I am over the moon excited to unearth this treasure. Jack White is the man, thanks for taking care of the music and the listener. Long live Third Man.

High Ball Stepper | Jack White | Lazaretto



The Lazaretto Ultra LP | Third Man Records | Jack White



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Vault into the Holidays

Welcome to the holiday season. Sometime in the near future, if you haven't started already, we will begin to assemble the lists of goodies that loved ones long for. With that in mind I offer you the Vault, as curated by Jack White, via his Third Man Records. The Vault is a record club subscription that allows its members the opportunity to receive live and rare vinyl, along with limited edition collectibles. This could be quite the surprise for that special someone who's an audiophile, assuming they dig the plethora of records Third Man is compiling. Special guests, collaborations, rare tracks & live performances are what's waiting, should you chose to indulge.

The Vault is currently offering package #18. A deluxe cornucopia of Jack White's other bands, The Raconteurs & The Dead Weather. In it are two 12" LP's re-visiting the Raconteurs 2011 performance at the Ryman. One is on rawhide & tobacco colored vinyl while the other is pressed onto gold & oil. The next gem is a studio recording of the Dead Weather, on yellow jacket vinyl. This 7" houses two new tracks. Last up in this treat pack is a DVD of the previously mentioned Raconteurs show at the Ryman.



Each Vault subscription is quarterly, with no added pressure to renew. There are two options, the platinum subscription ($60) and the gold ($20). I recommend the platinum, it gives you far more bang for the buck. If your curiosity gets the best of you, you may also want to check out the new Paramount Records set, volume 1 (1917-1932). It's quite possibly the most aesthetically pleasing compilation of vinyl ever.

Subsequently, Third Man is teaming with the Nashville Rescue Mission in an effort to help those less fortunate during the holidays. No good deed goes unnoticed. Enjoy the festive times of fall and winter.

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