Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 11, 2024 9:15 am GMT
Rock musician Jack White delivered an electrifying performance at White Eagle Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey, on September 11, showcasing classic hits from his past as well as new tracks from his latest album, “No Name.” The intimate venue, which accommodates just 800 fans, reverberated with excitement as White ignited the audience with a blend of rock and blues, affirming his status as a pioneering force in contemporary music.
Performance Highlights
White, accompanied by his tight-knit band—drummer Patrick Keller, bassist Dominic Davis, and keyboardist Bobby Emmett—kicked off the concert at 9:30 p.m. with a high-energy set that spanned approximately 90 minutes. The evening began with several songs from “No Name,” including “Old Scratch Blues” and “That’s How I’m Feeling,” both of which set the stage for an immersive rock experience.
The performance featured a mix of White’s signature sound and a powerful homage to blues legend Muddy Waters, highlighted by an expressive rendition of “Tom Cat.” Fans reveled in the inclusion of White Stripes classics such as “Black Math,” “Suzy Lee,” and “Catch Hell Blues,” demonstrating the enduring appeal of his earlier work.
A Night of Surprises
What made the evening particularly thrilling was White’s spontaneous style of performance. Although the concert had a planned 18-song setlist, he frequently deviated from it, leading the band into improvised jams. This dynamic approach kept the audience engaged, as White interjected with brief anecdotes and encouraged sing-alongs, often punctuating the air with enthusiastic calls of “Jersey!” and “Rock and roll!”
The show was notably divided into two sections. After approximately 45 minutes, White and the band stepped off stage, only to return with a powerful encore that included “Broken Boy Soldier” and the anthemic “Seven Nation Army.” This part of the concert featured audience participation, with White pausing for fans to sing the iconic riff, creating a memorable communal moment.
Reflecting Rock Tradition
White’s attire remained simple yet classic throughout the night, donning a black jacket and T-shirt, which he removed mid-performance. The stripped-down appearance resonated with the raw energy he delivered, emphasizing the music over theatrics. His performance, rich with slide guitar and buoyed by Emmett’s thunderous Hammond B-3 organ, reaffirmed his reputation for high-octane rock performances.
As the concert neared its conclusion, the band delivered an extended jam that captivated the audience until right at 11 p.m., when White signaled the end of the show, concluding with the poignant “Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground.”
Future Plans and Spontaneity
In a departure from traditional touring methods, White has announced plans for three intimate shows in the UK, taking place this weekend in London, Liverpool, and Brighton. These performances will provide fans with a chance to experience his music in small venues, aligning with his philosophy of prioritizing musicianship over mass marketing.
White emphasizes a spontaneous approach to these shows, stating he would not announce dates in advance and would make decisions on performances “as close to the show date as possible.” Fans have shown great enthusiasm for this unconventional strategy, reflecting the artist’s ongoing quest to keep live music vibrant and exciting.
Community and Artistry
This innovative approach to touring mirrors the unconventional release of his album “No Name” earlier this year. The album created a buzz when staff at Third Man Records distributed unmarked ‘white label’ versions of the record in customer bags, generating curiosity and community engagement around the music.
The official release of “No Name” followed, further fueled by the excitement articulated in a statement from Third Man Records. This unique blend of surprise and community participation showcases White’s commitment to both his artistry and the loyal fan base that supports him.
Preserving Rock and Roll
Amid a music landscape that many believe has marginalized traditional rock sounds, Jack White emerges as a vital figure in reviving the genre. His performances not only celebrate the roots of rock and roll but also embrace its evolution through innovative styles and formats. The reception of “No Name” and the enthusiastic crowds at his shows underscore White’s crucial role in keeping the spirit of rock alive.
Fans are excited for more upcoming shows where they can enjoy his special rock and roll in smaller places. He believes that “Music is sacred,” and he works hard to show that while also bringing new life to the genre for future fans.
