The Raconteurs: Consolers of the Lonely Review

Under extremely short notice the world was exposed to the newest Raconteurs album "Consolers of the Lonely." The Raconteurs, best known as Jack White's side project during his time off from The White Stripes, has just released their second album. "Consolers of the Lonely" is the follow up to their unforgettable "Broken Boy Soldier."

The Raconteurs debut album had reached the top ten on the Bilboard's, riding off their hit single "Steady as She Goes." The album could have easily been placed in numerous sub genres of the pop rock category, one of the most suitable would probably be more along the lines of experimental pop rock. It featured infectious lyrics and melodies which were perfect for radio play.

"Consolers of the Lonely" takes on many of the characteristics of their debut album but has a much more eclectic sound. While the experimental pop rock genre could still apply, their are countless others which can be added to the mix. Genres ranging from blues, to country, to garage rock. It feels eerily similar to The White Stripes latest effort "Icky Thump" which mashed together all forms of music and integrating various instruments not typically seen in a rock album.

The album retains the infectious characteristics of their debut album, with choruses perfect for singing along too. The majority of the songs have fun bouncing rhythms, and often have quirky lyrics. The slower songs are charming and melodic - exactly what you want from a band like the Raconteurs.

Jack White and Brendan Benson (guitar/vocals) make a perfect pair feeding off each other with precission. Both White and Benson share vocal responsibilities throughout the album. At times it becomes difficult to determine exactly who is singing because of the similarity in their voices. Their vocals propel the songs to the next level with their enthusiasm and passion. Not to be forgotten is White's fantastic guitar work. On "Consolers of the Lonely" White features his signature crushing riffs and screeching solos.

The album has a number of standout tracks but some that stand out over the rest are Many Shades of Black, Five on the Five, and Carolina Drama. Many Shades of Black is a slower melodic song accompanied with a substantial usage of horns. Benson takes on vocals, and carries an incredibly emotional and poignant performance driven by a great usage of brass instruments followed by a moving guitar solo. The next song Five on the Five is your typical sounding White Stripes song, a powerful garage rock number containing crunching riffs and White's squealing voice. The final song on the album is Carolina Drama, quite possibly the most memorable track. The lyrics are really the heart and soul of the song. Carolina Drama is a story about a murder, reminiscent of some of Dylan's great stories like The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll and The Hurricane. The music posses the epic feel to carry out the distressing emotion in the lyrics. White's vocal performance is absolutely stunning and is easily the perfect way to end this diverse journey.

Whether you are a Stripes fan or a Raconteurs fan this album is absolutely perfect. Whether or not it tops The Raconteurs debut album, it is tough to say. It is a different animal with a much more assorted sound. This album is a must purchase and as of now may be the strongest album released this year.

Grade: A