Jack White’s “Frozen Charlotte” review: gritty blues-rock that nearly sells itself

In recent years, Jack White has experienced a revitalization in his career, despite already being recognized as one of the most prolific artists of his generation. Known for his work with the White Stripes, as well as side projects like the Raconteurs and the Dead Weather, White’s influence continued to grow over the years. However, around the release of his third solo album, Boarding House Reach in 2018, it seemed that his fame was overshadowing his actual musical output.

As rising pop stars like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo credited White as a major influence, the music industry experienced a vinyl revival that he had a hand in sparking. Record plants were backed up due to the high demand for vinyl, causing delays for indie artists. White’s eccentricities, such as specific color schemes and unique opinions, threatened to overshadow the core of his music.

However, White made a comeback with his 2024 album No Name, which was met with great acclaim. This album featured the gritty blues-rock sound that White had become known for, showcasing his musical prowess beneath his larger-than-life persona. Following the success of No Name, White released Frozen Charlotte, which delves even deeper into the brutal and squalid side of 70s blues rock.

Songs like “GOD and the Broken Ribs” set the tone for Frozen Charlotte, with histrionic guitar solos and bold storytelling. The album is loud and ostentatious, focusing more on production and instrumentation compared to his previous work. While tracks like “Raising the Grain” and “You’ll Never Fix Me” highlight White’s garage rock roots, songs like “Neighbors Blues” stand out for their simmering aggression and tension-building qualities.

While Frozen Charlotte is fun and energetic, some may find it lacking in stylistic variance, with songs blending together at times. Despite this, the album captures the essence of White’s stripped-down renaissance, offering a raw and unapologetic sound. It serves as a testament to White’s musical legacy and ability to stay true to his roots while continuing to evolve as an artist.

Overall, Jack White’s career resurgence with albums like No Name and Frozen Charlotte showcases his unwavering talent and dedication to his craft. His ability to navigate the ever-changing music industry while staying true to his roots solidifies his status as a musical icon of the 21st century.