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The White Stripes - Blackpool Deluxe Live EP

·1 min

Okay, the “EP” isn’t in the actual title of Blackpool Deluxe, but anything that preserves the concept of the EP is great. Just picked it up from iTunes ($2.97 - it’s a companion to the pending Under Blackpool Lights live DVD; there’s also a Jolene single that’s from the UK’s XL Recordings, from the same concert). Blackpool Deluxe is just three songs recorded live at the Empress Ballroom in Blackpool in January 2004- nothing too unusual, just “Hotel Yorba”, a cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene”, and “Seven Nation Army”. Everyone knows Jack and Meg love “Jolene” in that quasi-kitsch-yet-clearly-they-love-it way, and that they play the song at numerous gigs, but this is one of the only other legit recording of the Stripes’ version besides the one on the Hello Operator / Jolene 7" single and some promos floating around, so those bereft of the benefit of hearing Jack sing country might want to consider a purchase. Otherwise, there’re no earthshaking new arrangements on this, it’s basically the same old Stripes with the “woo"s of the crowd. Like it? Of course, all three songs are great. Essential? Not unless you’re a completionist.