C’mon. Did you really think anything this guy released would be anything under five stars?

I say “this guy” because you should all know who he is and if you don’t then you need to be seriously rethinking some of your life choices. Jack White is a modern legend for blues music and the electric guitar. He co-created The White Stripes, one of the most influential rock n’ roll bands of the past couple decades and was a huge component of both The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather. It was only a matter of time before Jack White released something strictly of his own. And I’m happy to say his debut solo album “Blunderbuss” is an excellent showcase of his talents.

The man’s Detroit upbringing takes center stage in this album, with simple four chord guitar riffs creating the backdrop for some powerful vocal work — and don’t worry — he includes plenty of those squealing guitar solos that are now so instantly recognizable. But “Blunderbuss” is not just a guitar and drums like in The White Stripes, Jack White has matured and includes a plethora of instruments in every song. Primarily guitar, yes, but he also utilizes piano, a variety of synthesizers, and some sweet female back up vocals to create a unique twist on common blues and Motown styles.

This album has a little bit of everything as far as emotions go. Sometimes it’s energetic and making you bob your head to a heavily distorted guitar riff, sometimes it’s calm and contemplative with a bit of violin thrown in for flavor, and sometimes you’re singing along with him over bouncy piano melody. The man is certainly diverse, and never boring. If I was disappointed with anything, it was from a slight lack of intensity that he has spoiled me with in his previous albums, but I can understand he is a bit more grown up now and doesn’t feel the need to make music that pounds your skull all the time.

As much as I love Jack White, I understand that his style will probably not appeal to those of you who listen to “music” created entirely by computers where they sing about getting drunk and banging chicks. And if this is the case, then by all means, continue being ignorant. But if you like excellent musicianship, passionate melodies, and especially the blues, then you owe it to yourself to check this one out.