SXSW 2011 // Jack White

Our unbridled affection for Jack White is well known, and this 'impromptu' performance in a SXSW parking lot only enhances that love.

Cheekily introduced by Ben Swank, former Soledad Brothers and current Mr David Viner drummmer, and fellow Detroit scene stalwart, as a Third Man Records recording artist, White launches into Buddy Holly's Not Fade Away before a brief but impassioned version of Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground.

New Third Man signing Seasick Steve follows up with his older than time three string blues, completing 10 minutes full of reasons why I must get to Austin in 2012.



via NPR

Karen Elson // The Ghost Who Walks

The model-to-singer path is not one easily trod, ridden as it is with accusations of vacuity and the pursuit of dollar through diversification, with the music often a side issue. Actress to singer we accept almost without question, as proved most recently by indie darlings Zooey Deschanel and Scarlett Johansson, with a little help from their friends.

This is, however, the path chosen by Oldham's most glamourous musical export since Mark Owen, Karen Elson. Fortunately for us and her both, she has a miraculous, careless voice and has written mature, blues folk songs of subtle depth. Hints of late White Stripes in the gothic balladry (The Birds They Circle) and early Raconteurs (The Truth is in the Dirt) in the use of organ show hubby Jack's influence, while Nick Cave and female American country remain well sourced touchstones for the remainder.

Buy it on May 25th, or enjoy it now here.