Get Behind Me Satan
by The White Stripes
  • Record Label: V2 / XL
  • Release Date: Jun 7, 2005
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 283 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 242 out of 283
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 283
  3. Negative: 19 out of 283

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  1. ShaunT
    Jun 8, 2005
    10
    Unbelievable... like "let it bleed" era Stones with some bluegrass thrown in. Great stuff
  2. pauld
    Jun 14, 2005
    10
    it's what the core of their fans wanted to hear. never before a band was left so untouched by the overwhelming hype. great art.
  3. MikaT
    Jun 6, 2005
    10
    Greetings from Finland. I just have to say that I love it! There are a lot of great songs there. Like the previous albums I felt the more you listen this the more you love it. So don't throw this away after the first listen if you didn't like it ;)
  4. AndreiC
    Jun 7, 2005
    10
    This album made me so happy when i heard it just because it's so perfect. It has everything just like previous albums, especially Elephant. Blue orchid is an awsome new 7NA, instinct blues is great just like my doorbell... everything sounds excellent and different... and the lyrics are poetry.
  5. Nikkis
    Jun 10, 2005
    10
    This cd proves that Jack White is honestly a genius, he never fails to please and excite his fans. His lyrics and his wide range of instrument use is completely unexpected and suprisingly brilliant, and Meg has proven to compliment Jack perfectly. Never underestimate the stripes ever!
  6. KellyW
    Jun 11, 2005
    10
    An amazing record that is, quite simply, the best album of the year.
  7. MaggieC
    Jun 13, 2005
    10
    This album is AWESOME! Very different but listen through a couple times and it will blow your mind, as good as Elephant.
  8. Sam
    Jun 16, 2005
    10
    Probably their best album. Probably polarising (as the comments seem to indicate) but it's an incredible listen. It's reminiscent to me of the great mid-period Stones albums (Beggar's Banquet, Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers) in mood and style. My favourite album so far this year.
  9. CosmoPrelog
    Jun 18, 2005
    10
    Jumpin' Jericho Jehosafarts! This record towers over everything released this year. A giant leap forward! Thank Allah for this band. They are rocks true torch bearers. Everyone else in the music biz should just retire now! It
  10. Judes
    Jun 6, 2005
    10
    Simply brilliant and stunning album. The fact that it is not at all moments engaging is honestly what makes it compelling. Lyrically, it's brilliant. Will stand the test of time well, an off the mark classic. Jack White leaves his mark boldly on this collection of songs as I believe he truly wants to, as not just a musician but as an unusually gifted songwriter and visionary. The Simply brilliant and stunning album. The fact that it is not at all moments engaging is honestly what makes it compelling. Lyrically, it's brilliant. Will stand the test of time well, an off the mark classic. Jack White leaves his mark boldly on this collection of songs as I believe he truly wants to, as not just a musician but as an unusually gifted songwriter and visionary. The Marimba on a Stripes record...who would have thought it? Yet it works, it REALLY works. This is THE record that will still be resonating months from now. "My Doorbell" is slated for the next single. Could easily be their biggest hit to date. Highlights after first few listens: The Nurse, My Doorbell, Red Rain, As Ugly As I Seem. I can't get over how breathtaking this album as a whole actually is...… Expand
  11. IanS
    Jun 7, 2005
    10
    It
  12. ChrisC
    Jun 7, 2005
    10
    Get Behind Me Satan is fully of more extremely energetic, well crafted songs. But, the White Stripes branch out musically and do more experimentation than in their previous records, so people who hate it when bands change their sound will hate this album. Open minded music fans, on the other hand, should love it. One of the best of the year.
  13. MarkR
    Jun 9, 2005
    10
    Best yet from the White Stripes, and obviously the best CD of 2005 (only dwarfed in the decade by American Idiot)
  14. ross
    Jun 9, 2005
    10
    A great album and definitely the best of a class collection which this band have given us. Not only does it unite fans with the classic sound of the white stripes but also takes another step in evolving as a band. Blows all competition out of the water and even destroys their own previous records. Best stripes album ever (until the next one!!!)
  15. NikolaV
    Jul 14, 2005
    10
    The Best! :)
  16. leighs
    Jul 19, 2005
    10
    an amazing album. they just get better and better!
  17. CindyR
    Jul 6, 2005
    10
    Was a little unsure about this album when I first heard it because it was sooo different. However, after two or three listens, I was addicted. I hear something new in each of the songs everytime I listen and, at this point, I can't even listen to anything else. "Forever For Her" is probably Jack's most accomplished musical composition (think old Stones) and "Denial Twist" his Was a little unsure about this album when I first heard it because it was sooo different. However, after two or three listens, I was addicted. I hear something new in each of the songs everytime I listen and, at this point, I can't even listen to anything else. "Forever For Her" is probably Jack's most accomplished musical composition (think old Stones) and "Denial Twist" his strongest lyrics to date. I truly believe this guy will go down in history as one of the greatest songwriters of our time. Everyone is entitled to their own taste, but I find it hard to believe that true rock connoisseurs cannot find something to appreciate about this album.… Expand
  18. joseyb
    Jul 8, 2005
    10
    Personally I think the White Stripes have outdone themselves, Jack even brought in a little influence from Loretta Lynn, and Meg has proven herself once again. Way to go Stripes!
  19. KevinS
    Sep 4, 2005
    10
    all the critics that basically dissed the album need to go back to their paper route and learn that just because you dont like the music doesnt mean it isnt any good, white stripes havent dissapointed me at all and i myself think the white stripes are doing good with trying new things, who wants to hear all the same stuff over and over?
  20. BenD
    Apr 19, 2007
    10
    I just want to listen to it over and over.
  21. jordanbond
    Sep 2, 2007
    10
    This CD is amazing. It has influenced me so much. I keep listening to it again and again. Forever For Her is an superb song, as well as Take, Take, Take.
  22. JenB
    Oct 16, 2005
    10
    Brilliant. Will be thrashing it all summer. Doorbell is standout track. They continue to evolve and surprise. Love it. Highly recommended!
  23. KateL
    Dec 1, 2005
    10
    Every song on this CD rocks my face off, except for White Moon, which is good, but not as face rocking as the rest. I pity the fool who gives this album less than a 10! Jack and Meg White are just incredible. God, I love them.
  24. JamesL
    Dec 5, 2005
    10
    I never was a stripes fan, primarly beause I never was exposed. After buying this, I immediately went out and bought all their previous works. All of which are almost equally moving.
  25. [Anonymous]
    Jun 12, 2005
    10
    This might be the best White Stripes album.
  26. ElizaB
    Jun 14, 2005
    10
    This is an infectious collection of songs. The brilliance is in the subtleties and the ability of this album to grow on you more and more with each and every listen. The Stripes have mastered a stunning album. All are highlights, blinding highlights are Forever for Her, Ugly As I Seem, I'm Lonely, My Doorbell and Red Rain.
  27. JoeD
    Jun 18, 2005
    10
    almost as good as elephant! more guitar next time!
  28. Rosie
    Jun 26, 2005
    10
    i think this album is something new, its a breath of fresh air and there is not a lot of records out there at the moment like this one. i think it is very individual and jack and meg compilment eachother and make the music what it is on this album. they are different and so i would expect this album to have a bit of an edge. blue orchid is a great first track and i love doorbell, the i think this album is something new, its a breath of fresh air and there is not a lot of records out there at the moment like this one. i think it is very individual and jack and meg compilment eachother and make the music what it is on this album. they are different and so i would expect this album to have a bit of an edge. blue orchid is a great first track and i love doorbell, the nurse and tak, take, take… Expand
  29. davedavesuperhero
    Jun 27, 2005
    10
    as near to perfect as you are likely to find in an album. this is what jack and meg have been working towards. honest, mature blues and rock n roll to die for. lyrically astounding, we all need a little white stripes in our lives.
  30. LeonardoF
    Jun 6, 2005
    10
    I wanted to give the album an 11, but that's not possible. This is the best, most compelling and experimental album the White Stripes have released. "The Nurse", "Take Take Take" and "Red Rain" are the highlights.
  31. PhillipD
    Jun 6, 2005
    10
    The brilliance continues ...
  32. DaveD
    Jun 7, 2005
    10
    It kind of ticks me off that this record is so good. It's a masterpiece, blah blah blah, the Jack White seems invigorated from working with Loretta, blah blah, there isn't a weak track here, blah blah. The White Stripes have released the best album of the year. How boring. Is this 2001?
  33. BrettL
    Jun 8, 2005
    10
    the people who say this album isn't genius are the people who think that linkin park and sum 41 are genius, and their opinions don't really matter because they don't have souls. the idea that a great album can't be recorded quickly is stupid. According to you guys then, when Chinese Democracy comes out, it will be the greatest album of all time. I don't think so.
  34. RogerY
    Jun 8, 2005
    10
    The White Stripes take this album in a new direction and their careers to yet another level. Jack and Meg White have become the Thurston Moore and Kim Gordon of the next generation. They are not only making music, but also creating art.
  35. Sauw
    Jun 8, 2005
    10
    There is no denying that this is a much different album than any of the White Stripes' previous releases...and for a good reason. Its difference lies in its introduction of non-conventional rock band instruments (including the marimba and more piano) and acknowledgement of more international influences that have rarely been seen in any of The White Stripes' previous efforts. There is no denying that this is a much different album than any of the White Stripes' previous releases...and for a good reason. Its difference lies in its introduction of non-conventional rock band instruments (including the marimba and more piano) and acknowledgement of more international influences that have rarely been seen in any of The White Stripes' previous efforts. These changes have not taken away from The White Stripes strength as a band, but rather enhanced it. This album is a step in the right direction to the White Stripes being able to show off their versatility to audiences, as well as proving to the world that they are still one of the most consistently successful bands of the 21st century.… Expand
  36. AaronR
    Jun 8, 2005
    10
    The Stripes continue to crush on every other rock band with great songs that range from hard nosed rock to blue grass. Jack is the man and Meg is as wonderful as ever!!!
  37. jojon
    Jun 8, 2005
    10
    maybe not what anyone expects, but who wants a predictable artist?
  38. JayJ
    Jun 9, 2005
    10
    They told me it was Genius, and that was all I needed.
  39. jasonkk
    Jun 9, 2005
    10
    This album is so goood, i masturbate to the nurse
  40. LauraM
    Jul 16, 2005
    10
    This album is great. it takes a few times to get into it completely, but when i got into it, i still havent stopped listening to it, and i got it the day or two or three after it came out from my boyfriend, and i just fell in love with it. my 29 year old brother really got into it the moment i made him listen to Little Ghost. (reccomended for people who are interested in that bluegrass style)
  41. Kris
    Jul 2, 2005
    10
    Simply put, this is the White Stripes finest work.
  42. JuliusHemisphere
    Aug 11, 2005
    10
    I wasn't convinced on GBMS until I saw them live last week. Truly powerful material.
  43. NseE
    Aug 13, 2005
    10
    The White Stripes music has always been raw, stripped down and a sparse energetic affair. `Get behind me satan' is even more sparse; guitars are largely missing from the mix, compensated for by keyboards, marimba and lots of tambourine and it does make for a major difference. As arty and experimental as ever, they dabble into rock (the stomping, racing `Blue Orchid' sung in a The White Stripes music has always been raw, stripped down and a sparse energetic affair. `Get behind me satan' is even more sparse; guitars are largely missing from the mix, compensated for by keyboards, marimba and lots of tambourine and it does make for a major difference. As arty and experimental as ever, they dabble into rock (the stomping, racing `Blue Orchid' sung in a falsetto), blues (`Instant blues'), country (The upbeat tambourine stomp `Little Ghost'), `As ugly as I seem' is an acoustic ballad, and there's even what sounds almost hymnal, `I'm lonely (But I aint that lonely yet)'. `My doorbell' and `The denial twist' are excellent upbeat piano driven rockers, and Meg takes a turn on vocals on the very brief `Passive manipulation', but prize for most outstanding song has got to be `The nurse' featuring marimbas and sudden unexpected bursts of loud guitar and change in tempo. Brilliant! As usual, like nothing else out there today, the songs take a while to grow on you but another excellent release from Jack and Meg White.… Expand
  44. MarkS
    Sep 8, 2005
    10
    Contender for CD of the year. It took me awhile to fathom why "Blue Orchid" belongs with the rest of the disc, nevertheless, their sound continues to grow, and Meg does her job just fine. She's the perfect ex-wife!
  45. Mars88
    Dec 14, 2006
    10
    Amazing, stunning. original. the best album of 2005. and it still baffles me that people can hate the white stripes.
  46. DanielC
    Feb 7, 2006
    10
    II just started liking this band, THIS CD IS AWESOME, you should get it if your a fan of White Stripes!!!!!
  47. HomieBB
    Jun 26, 2006
    10
    this record now is classic, much better than "Elephant" The White Stripes are very talented and can plan blues, bluegrass, rock, all of those. This will definately be played on KSLX in 20 years.
  48. CaseyRDubya
    May 1, 2007
    10
    Anybody heard their new single? It's amazing. I thought they broke up. But now their better than ever. All Jack White ever does is release something new every year. That's how musicians get a good reputation. To Jack it's all about the music and this is living proof.
  49. PeterT
    Jun 13, 2005
    10
    It took a few listens, but I now think this album is even better than "Elephant". You will be disappointed if you're expecting another "Seven Nation Army" or "Ball and Biscuit", but this album is greater than the sum of its individual tracks. Where Elephant kind of faded out in it's second half, "Satan" continues to surprise and engage your interest until the mighty climax of It took a few listens, but I now think this album is even better than "Elephant". You will be disappointed if you're expecting another "Seven Nation Army" or "Ball and Biscuit", but this album is greater than the sum of its individual tracks. Where Elephant kind of faded out in it's second half, "Satan" continues to surprise and engage your interest until the mighty climax of "I'm Lonely (but I ain't that lonely yet)". In case you didn't already know it, this album proves that Jack White is a f**king genius.… Expand
  50. LockneO
    Jun 16, 2005
    10
    The White Stripes' latest album, "Get Behind me Satan", is unbelievably produced. Very good album! I wasn't expecting such a good album after "Elephant" was so successful, but this proves that the White Stripes should never be doubted.
  51. Amanda
    Jun 17, 2005
    10
    I love this new album. The music and lyrics are so cool. It ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  52. HaslynR
    Jun 19, 2005
    10
    Simply Put--This is the best cd of 2005. It's a brilliant piece of work.
  53. RichardS
    Jun 29, 2005
    10
    GBMS is another step in the ever-evolving sound of the white stripes, but at the same time brings their career full circle with a stronger acknowledgement of their early country and western influences (see their self titled). I can't compare it to Elephant because its a completely different sounding album. Its like asking which is better, Sabbath's Paranoid or Cash's Live GBMS is another step in the ever-evolving sound of the white stripes, but at the same time brings their career full circle with a stronger acknowledgement of their early country and western influences (see their self titled). I can't compare it to Elephant because its a completely different sounding album. Its like asking which is better, Sabbath's Paranoid or Cash's Live at San Quentin. Maybe Jack White is able to recorrd an album in two weeks because he doesnt spend alot (or any) time on polishing the record up with fancy studio tricks, or in dirty Greenwhich Village bars wasting himself away like our friend Julian of Strokes fame. White is also the most talentyed song writer of our generation, and more than likely perfects his craft long before walking through the studio doors. Critics of this record should stop name-dropping (come on! the libertines?), get their noses out of the air, and let themselves enjoy a great rock record.… Expand
  54. ClaytonC
    Aug 29, 2005
    10
    I caught the Stripes live at Red Rocks, where they succeeded in blowing me away. There is no doubting the solidarity of GBMS. Jack and Meg show off there wide range of instrumental talent.
  55. CarlyD
    Sep 13, 2005
    10
    This Album is purely amazing, every song just goes so well together, I have never heard anything like it, and I believe thats why I love it so much.
  56. DeeR.
    Mar 19, 2006
    10
    Amazing. Each of thier albums outdoes the last. Some fans of previous records won't enjoy it, but it will gain them new ones. Jack White is a master songwriter, and has re-invented his sound for this album, highlighting some of the subtleties that may have been harder to recognize in the harder material.
  57. KellyK
    Apr 22, 2006
    10
    I'm a little late coming into the White Stripes butI have to say that I have not enjoyed anything new in a long time but for me this is refreshing. Jack and Meg are just so talented -I can't stop listening to it. I've even been turning my friends (or anyone that will listen) onto it. This Cd is just plaine FUN.
  58. CreedB
    May 14, 2006
    10
    This album is awsome just like all the others!!!!
  59. aa
    Jul 22, 2006
    10
    the most unique, progressive and greatest album in years. the white stripes are one of the all time greats and this album is a huge and important step not only in the progression of the band but of modern music its self. a true masterpiece
  60. JawsPapi87
    Oct 20, 2011
    10
    The White Stripes, like The Strokes are a band who can completely change their sound for one record and it will be just as good as their other work. It's a strangely relaxing album and is a breath of fresh air from 21st century ****
  61. Gazza
    Jun 15, 2005
    9
    All you reviewers out there SHUT IT!! This is a stunning piece of raw Rock and Roll, and can easily be spoken of in the same breath as Exile on Main Street. Buy it, & remember how you felt when you first heard these tortured vocals. And who cares if Meg can't sing.. She's a goddess.
  62. StephenG
    Jun 16, 2005
    9
    To me, this is without a doubt the best white stripes album to date-I felt their previous albums were good, although a bit overrated-they just seemed to lack a consistency from the first song to last that made it hard to listen all the way through more than once-luckily, GBMS does not suffer from this problem. Excellent album.
  63. IanR
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    This is a really eclectic, experimental, and all around different album for the White Stripes... but even so, it's definitely a White Stripes album, and it rocks hard, even when it plays it cool.
  64. RogH
    Aug 10, 2005
    9
    The first track is misleading because you think you're in for a rough, hard riff ride...but in fact, its one of the more diverse albums I've heard in years. Jack really shows his Stripes on this album...
  65. KeseyT
    Dec 5, 2005
    9
    The Stripes are the only major label band in existance today that can take such giant steps in every direction and still come out on top. Moments like Little Ghost, which is hard to digest for even the most die-hard fans, envokes in the least a solid respect for Jack White and his deep set passion and knowledge for all that is or ever was music. While missing much of Jack's imfamous The Stripes are the only major label band in existance today that can take such giant steps in every direction and still come out on top. Moments like Little Ghost, which is hard to digest for even the most die-hard fans, envokes in the least a solid respect for Jack White and his deep set passion and knowledge for all that is or ever was music. While missing much of Jack's imfamous guitar riffs, the album as a whole shines with the confidence and inginuity of a musical legend. I can't see the Stripes staying on top commercially with too many more of these relative (to other bands, of course) concept albums, but I for one am willing to eat up anything they're willing to dish out from this point on.… Expand
  66. RichardH
    Jun 10, 2005
    9
    The best thing i can say about this album is it isnt Elephant 2. Jack White is smart to know you cant top perfection but you can go around it.
  67. JonH
    Jun 21, 2005
    9
    This album is on another planet from all previous White Stripes albums. The piano-laden ballads almost have an Elliott Smith feel, while the rockers are more rocking than ever. The title track is possibly the band's finest song. The lyrics are also pointier and better crafted than on previous albums. Easily one of the top 5 albums of the year.
  68. LarryW
    Jun 24, 2005
    9
    I thought this puppy blew chunks for the first few days. Then I spent a solid week listening to the previous WS fare, came back to it, and was really blown away.
  69. RickyP
    Jun 6, 2005
    9
    I don't understand how anyone could say that this was a step back or that it was undercooked or that it was raw and unprocessed and...all of that is ridiculous. Throughout the album I kept thinking how much the off kilter instrumentation and slightly better production value seemed to fit the White Stripes. I would have liked MORE of it, in fact, but that doesn't mean it I don't understand how anyone could say that this was a step back or that it was undercooked or that it was raw and unprocessed and...all of that is ridiculous. Throughout the album I kept thinking how much the off kilter instrumentation and slightly better production value seemed to fit the White Stripes. I would have liked MORE of it, in fact, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. They keep the energy at a simmer for most of the album and let loose on you at just the right moments (with admittedly a few exceptions, where they could have done a bit more). I don't think some of those reviewers are listening to the same album I am.… Expand
  70. aaronr
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    I hope every "fan" hates this album. get rid of em, the direction is not shocking (listen to cold mountain soundtrack, and to van lear rose), it is perfect. soul never sounded so good.
  71. NielsR
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    This is a first impression score, although it may get higher with more listens. this album is certainly different, but in line with the Loretta Lynne work and other stuff jack W has been involved with, This is the best wide distribution band in the world right now, and I think critics judge their work at a higher standard than most everyone else, which is somewhat justified since they are This is a first impression score, although it may get higher with more listens. this album is certainly different, but in line with the Loretta Lynne work and other stuff jack W has been involved with, This is the best wide distribution band in the world right now, and I think critics judge their work at a higher standard than most everyone else, which is somewhat justified since they are 1 or 2 more great albums from legendary status.… Expand
  72. Joe
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    Somehow Jack White stays years ahead of other songwriters by taking his musical cues from older artists. The Stripes have made an album that is strange, unnerving and beautiful all at once and Jack's vocals sound like he has been possessed by the devil himself at times. This album is a welcome departure from their other records, and as long as the Stripes keep doing their own thing Somehow Jack White stays years ahead of other songwriters by taking his musical cues from older artists. The Stripes have made an album that is strange, unnerving and beautiful all at once and Jack's vocals sound like he has been possessed by the devil himself at times. This album is a welcome departure from their other records, and as long as the Stripes keep doing their own thing they will keep making great music!… Expand
  73. Jax
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    It took me a bit of time to warm up to Get Behind Me Satan, as it seemed a bit sparse but after a dozen listens it is clear that The White Stripes are the only real straight-up American rock band out there right now. Perhaps that be overstating a bit but this album is a wonder. I expect it will not get the praise it deserves because I doubt many critics will take the necessary time to absorb it.
  74. Clint
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    Although it contains a lot of strong material, I think it's telling that of my three favourite songs on the album, two are electric guitar-based ('instinct blues' and 'red rain', the other one is 'the denial twist'). When I buy a record by the White Stripes, I expect to buy a record by a rock band. That problably explains my initial disappointment (I Although it contains a lot of strong material, I think it's telling that of my three favourite songs on the album, two are electric guitar-based ('instinct blues' and 'red rain', the other one is 'the denial twist'). When I buy a record by the White Stripes, I expect to buy a record by a rock band. That problably explains my initial disappointment (I think that's called cognitive dissonance or something...). I'm still a little frustrated by the lack of the phenomenal electric guitar-driven songs that made the WS' reputation and, to me more importantly, made me love and admire their music so much. But the wealth of the material on display here compensates for a lot. PS: What the hell is 'passive manipulation' doing on there? It is just as self-indulgent and superfluous as 'in the cold, cold night' was on elephant (and I think the latter kinda had a nice vibe and atmosphere going thanks to the guitarline that supported Meg's terrible voice, but this time round it sucks and annoys all the way).… Expand
  75. briand
    Jun 8, 2005
    9
    At first listen I was like what the f*&( is this garbage. After 4 listens, I think it is going to be a masterpiece. Once the initial shock wears off, people will truly appreciate this work of art. Look it could be like the new Coldplay album that took a thousand years and puts you to sleep after three songs. In your face, pure energy, from Jack's soul; just with a new outlet.
  76. JaneC
    Jun 8, 2005
    9
    This one rocks. A nice combo of previous sounds- some De Stijl-type mixes, blues, bluegrass, and piano stompers.
  77. andrew
    Jun 8, 2005
    9
    If you don't like it, you just don't get it. That's not your fault, it's just that you probably aren't even one of those who the Stripes HOPE get it. You probably want something more accessible and safe. And that's fine - go pick up another bland offering from Coldplay instead.
  78. arnabm
    Jun 8, 2005
    9
    very confident song-writing and recording, and the songs grow you quite quickly. i bought this at the same time as x&y, and this record represents all that x&y could have been: ballsy, experimentative, and catchy. take, take, take is my favorite song so far. get it.
  79. djadequate
    Jul 13, 2005
    9
    Don't just listen to the songs, listen to the album. It's brilliantly disconcerting, like a postcard from the twilight zone. The White Stripes have gone from invoking the past, to creating a future that could have been. The use of silence and mistakes--like the amplifier buzz on Wild Orchid--make this music seem unlike, unlike most of the pre-prodessed, surgically-enhanced pop Don't just listen to the songs, listen to the album. It's brilliantly disconcerting, like a postcard from the twilight zone. The White Stripes have gone from invoking the past, to creating a future that could have been. The use of silence and mistakes--like the amplifier buzz on Wild Orchid--make this music seem unlike, unlike most of the pre-prodessed, surgically-enhanced pop music put out these days.… Expand
  80. DJS
    Jul 20, 2005
    9
    Beautifully different and challenging! A band that changes rather than repeating it's blueprint with less passion!
  81. Chelsea
    Aug 9, 2005
    9
    Songs that already sound strong on the album are truly amazing live. Who knew Jack was such an outstanding marimba player? How can anyone knock simplicity in the age of over produced music?
  82. luciag
    Sep 1, 2005
    9
    ......is a little rare but good...it's just diferent!!!
  83. ixata
    May 6, 2007
    9
    thisis the first album of theirs' i bought.. at first listen, the album sux big tym. but then, i tried listening to it agn in hope of findin light, and it worked! every song holds it moment. my fav track is the denial twist
  84. lydiaF
    Dec 10, 2005
    9
    a really different album. I loved the riff in blue orchid even though bule orchid didnt reallyseem to fit with the rest of the album. A real mixture of unique stuff. A really worthwhile listen
  85. NeilP
    Jun 14, 2005
    9
    A great new sound for the white stripes. But i do sort of miss the elephant sound.
  86. matta
    Jun 14, 2005
    9
    Really amazing stuff. Better than white blood cells and easily as good as Elephant, with the stripes expanding their style but sticking with the low-key production, which suits them perfectly and makes this album that much more special and deserving of your purchase.
  87. GabeF
    Jun 21, 2005
    9
    I really think this is their best album!!!!so....Far!!!!
  88. cristianp
    Jun 6, 2005
    9
    BUENISIMO!
  89. giuliac
    Jun 6, 2005
    9
    The Rolling Stone review of this album is dead on. The White Stripes have every other rock band in modern music beaten to a pulp. On "Get Behind me Satan" they are as creative, original and intriguing as they always have been. It may not beat "Elephant", but that doesn't matter--it's not trying to. Definitely the best album of the year so far.
  90. JW
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    To the most recent poster: Yes the song are underdeveolped...thats the point, but they're anything but sloppy. Unlike with the Beatles and the other bands you mentioned the studio is used today to make crappy songs (and bands) sound good, not to "push the sonic boundries of music." Also, Radiohead was better when they were a rock band not whatever they are today with thier To the most recent poster: Yes the song are underdeveolped...thats the point, but they're anything but sloppy. Unlike with the Beatles and the other bands you mentioned the studio is used today to make crappy songs (and bands) sound good, not to "push the sonic boundries of music." Also, Radiohead was better when they were a rock band not whatever they are today with thier overproduced alums fully of computer made noise... though they still rock in concert...… Expand
  91. Carrie
    Jun 7, 2005
    9
    This album proves the pointlessness of pinning labels on the things you love and tucking them away into their shoebox. Listen to it with an open mind. You won't be disappointed.
  92. Gnarles
    Jun 8, 2005
    9
    Lookit: all you haters need to go listen to Jet, the Vines, or some other such easily digestible "garage" rock garbage destined to be forgotten in a year. Any REAL White Stripes fan will enjoy Get Behind Me Satan, because it's the songs that matter, not whether or not every song is a guitar-o-rama. How long could they keep re-making De Stijl before they got pathetic? Grow up, people. Lookit: all you haters need to go listen to Jet, the Vines, or some other such easily digestible "garage" rock garbage destined to be forgotten in a year. Any REAL White Stripes fan will enjoy Get Behind Me Satan, because it's the songs that matter, not whether or not every song is a guitar-o-rama. How long could they keep re-making De Stijl before they got pathetic? Grow up, people. The Stripes had the stones to take a real risk here and they should be applauded, not subjected to your elitist scrutiny. The sheer speed at which GBMS was completed was not only brave but succeeds in establishing a loose, rootsy sound that's as comfortable as an old shirt; the fact that some call it "sloppy" only reinforces how soulless and pro-tooled music is today, and that includes many of their "peers". A few tracks could have been fleshed out a tad more, and the murky production is trying at times, but in the end, GBMS feels ALIVE, and that's what rock music is supposed to be. History will vindicate this album. Try not to make us wait too long for the rest of you to catch up.… Expand
  93. juliog
    Jun 8, 2005
    9
    hmmm.... i have this sneaking suspicion that the people who are most thrown for a loop by this album are the ones that had only heard 'elephant.' i hear a lot of "i like blue orchid but..." i don't know, everyone's free to like what they want, but it seems akin to saying "i like 'i wanna hold your hand' but what's this sgt. pepper's crap?" people hmmm.... i have this sneaking suspicion that the people who are most thrown for a loop by this album are the ones that had only heard 'elephant.' i hear a lot of "i like blue orchid but..." i don't know, everyone's free to like what they want, but it seems akin to saying "i like 'i wanna hold your hand' but what's this sgt. pepper's crap?" people also keep mentioning hipness and coolness. "it's cool to like this band" and another saying the white stripes have become so overexposed that they are uncool, but he likes them anyway. human beings are messed up man. the cool wars must end now. a big part of this album's appeal for me is that it appears the white stripes don't care what we think is cool, they just want to explore the music they love--like they've been doing from the start.… Expand
  94. RyanK
    Jun 9, 2005
    9
    Don't believe it when you hear this album sounds incomplete or rushed. This album has great songs and a great sound, making it even better than the monstrous last White Stripes album Elephant.
  95. Jodie-LouiseW
    Jul 13, 2005
    9
    Wicked! Very different i wasn't sure at the beginning but it is sooo addictive! The nurse and my doorbell are the best!
  96. Melissano
    Jul 16, 2005
    9
    Definitely a deviation from past CDs, but still as catchy as ever :)
  97. salomey
    Sep 2, 2005
    9
    great great great collection of tunes instantly make a way to your memory banks to never leave there great choice of sounds thoroughly enjoy it
  98. GeorgeM
    Feb 14, 2007
    9
    Awesome!!
  99. Oligami
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    A stratospheric achievement.
  100. AllisonN
    Dec 26, 2005
    9
    I kind of liked this album, but not as much as the others, because it didn't rock as hard. But my mom really liked it, and she hates everything I like, so...
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Awards & Rankings

53
#53 Best Album of 2005
16
#16 Most Discussed Album of 2005
49
#49 Most Shared Album of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Universal acclaim - based on 38 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 30 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 38
  3. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. The New York Times
    100
    It's an album so strong and so unexpected that it may change the way people hear all its predecessors. And that's just a start. Listen long enough, and this album might change the way you hear lots of other bands, too.
  2. New Musical Express (NME)
    80
    A very strange album, which shreds the old White Stripes rulebook (no bass, just guitar and drums) and pushes into territories way beyond the blues and rock of their previous four records.
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  3. Paste Magazine
    50
    A sidestep that’s as easy to admire as it is hard to love.
    Read full review
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