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. marshallm
    Dec 3, 2005
    9
    9.3 / A- it's an amazingly different album. its definately a must listen/buy. i loved " take, take, take" and "blue orchid". great stuff.
  2. DaveF
    Jun 11, 2005
    9
    The best Stripes yet. Their previous work was overrated; if mixed bags like Elephant can get 5 stars from Rolling Stone, Spoon's Kill the Moonlight deserved 7! Far from a half-assed work, most of GBMS is plain-and-simply brilliant. It's hampered (or helped, depending on one's 'indie' pretensions) by the analog equipment. The songs are so strong, it's a shame The best Stripes yet. Their previous work was overrated; if mixed bags like Elephant can get 5 stars from Rolling Stone, Spoon's Kill the Moonlight deserved 7! Far from a half-assed work, most of GBMS is plain-and-simply brilliant. It's hampered (or helped, depending on one's 'indie' pretensions) by the analog equipment. The songs are so strong, it's a shame that the production muffles them rather than bringing them out in full color. The Stripes are stars now… Expand
  3. mattl
    Jun 19, 2005
    9
    Takes a couple listens to warm up too, then you are hooked
  4. blairt
    Jun 21, 2005
    9
    "Get Behind Me Satan" is in my opinion,a very strong album. Example- Blue Orchid has one of the catchiest guitar riffs ever! Take, Take, Take is the sickest song besides Seven Nation Army.
  5. HarryH
    Jun 28, 2005
    9
    Undoubtedly the Stripes' best album, and good to see them back on form after the blip that was Elephant. Better than De Stijl and White Blood Cells becuase of wittier lyrics and inventive textures - great work Jack!
  6. WSFan
    Jan 24, 2006
    9
    This album is incredible. Jack White is so musically talented and creative that he can create such a real effect to his music. The marimbas and piano were totally unexpected and amazing. There are some low points in the album however, and that's why I give it a measly 9. The only reasons I'm giving it a 9 is the fact that White Moon sucks. It's such a boring song. And This album is incredible. Jack White is so musically talented and creative that he can create such a real effect to his music. The marimbas and piano were totally unexpected and amazing. There are some low points in the album however, and that's why I give it a measly 9. The only reasons I'm giving it a 9 is the fact that White Moon sucks. It's such a boring song. And what's up with this random piece Passive Manipulation? Meg White shouldn't be able to sing in the band. MHO. But some of the great pieces on the album (soon to be classics!) are Blue Orchid, My Doorbell, Take Take Take, I'm Lonely, and The Nurse. Those are all great tunes that any music fan would enjoy. Fantastic album with possibly the best rock duo on Earth. I cannot (Repeat CANNOT) wait for their next big thing! It's gonna be good, and every White Stripes fan will expect that after this.… Expand
  7. AustinD
    Apr 23, 2006
    9
    This is a great album. There is such a broad spectrum of music on this album. From the heaver stuff like Red Rain to bluesier stuff to (Believe it or not) even a countryish song. A great album and i love it.
  8. PaulK
    May 26, 2006
    9
    First, to all the people who dislike raw Rock and Roll, I think you're missing a huge point here. Zeppelin I was recorded in 30 hours. Spontenaiety is the the secret to creativity; you must capture it at its height. The Stripes have always done this and to call doing the blues "copying a song" you have much to learn about the tradition and reality of modern music. So while the First, to all the people who dislike raw Rock and Roll, I think you're missing a huge point here. Zeppelin I was recorded in 30 hours. Spontenaiety is the the secret to creativity; you must capture it at its height. The Stripes have always done this and to call doing the blues "copying a song" you have much to learn about the tradition and reality of modern music. So while the Strokes are in the studio for years layering guitars and working on their oh so fab image, Jack White has produced great songs in and out of the stripes. This is a modern classic and if you don't get it, smoke some weed like you did for Dark Side of the Moon-- or maybe you didnt get that either.… Expand
  9. davo
    Jun 7, 2005
    8
    First of all, what the hell does that New York Times quote mean??? This album is very good, but contains no magical properties capable of changing previous albums you have listened to. Jack White has more control over his vocals and Meg continues to be able to hit the drum in a steady rythem. The production is slightly different. That's about it. This isn't their best album, but First of all, what the hell does that New York Times quote mean??? This album is very good, but contains no magical properties capable of changing previous albums you have listened to. Jack White has more control over his vocals and Meg continues to be able to hit the drum in a steady rythem. The production is slightly different. That's about it. This isn't their best album, but it's still a great album. Red Rain is going to truly rock when played live and Denial, Instinct and Take Take Take are some of Jack White's best songs. If you are prepared to listen to the album a couple of times before making your judgement of it or if you like previous White Stripes albums this album is recommended.… Expand
  10. ShawnG
    Jun 9, 2005
    8
    Probably more like an 8.5. I have to agree with what was said previously about most people who are thrown by this being people who think "Elephant" was all Jack and Meg's previous repertoire. That's not to say there aren't flaws in the album. Some of the material does seem 'too' rushed. Some of the songs weren't even finished when they went into the studio, Probably more like an 8.5. I have to agree with what was said previously about most people who are thrown by this being people who think "Elephant" was all Jack and Meg's previous repertoire. That's not to say there aren't flaws in the album. Some of the material does seem 'too' rushed. Some of the songs weren't even finished when they went into the studio, and one can sense that in a way that wasn't possible in the previous efforts. That said, a good White Stripes album (and this is) is still better than most bands could 'dream' of making. And I think a lot of the reviews publications are making are the long-expected backlash. The opening four tracks are some of the most dizzying and delightful bits of genre-hopping in rock since, well... De Stijl, which this compares more closely with in their catalog than anything else. Is it their best effort? No. But it's intriguing and enjoyable...a very good effort, by any mortal band's standards.… Expand
  11. Josh
    Jun 7, 2005
    8
    Like most Stripes fans, this album caught me off guard and I was a little dissappointed at first. But, like so many are saying, if you keep listening to it for what it is, not what you expect, it's a really unique and cool record. People who enjoyed their garage rock sound the most will be dissapointed, as this album bares very little resemblence to their earlier work, but I think Like most Stripes fans, this album caught me off guard and I was a little dissappointed at first. But, like so many are saying, if you keep listening to it for what it is, not what you expect, it's a really unique and cool record. People who enjoyed their garage rock sound the most will be dissapointed, as this album bares very little resemblence to their earlier work, but I think most people can agree that what you'll find is very interesting, if nothing else.… Expand
  12. EricaG
    Jun 9, 2005
    8
    I love the White Stripes, and I think there are several great songs on this cd!! There are also a few I can't stand, but I feel the good songs on this cd are better than the good songs on the other cds. So it sort of balances out, I can live with the bad songs because the good ones are so worth it!
  13. TBoneM
    Jul 2, 2005
    8
    First off, this album is very good but not great. I love the experimentation, it's better than Elephant because it's not mainstream. You won't hear a single one of these songs at the MTV beach party which means retarded frat boys don't get it. The rough edges and stripped down, underproduced sound are welcome in the age of American Idol fecal matter. That said, some First off, this album is very good but not great. I love the experimentation, it's better than Elephant because it's not mainstream. You won't hear a single one of these songs at the MTV beach party which means retarded frat boys don't get it. The rough edges and stripped down, underproduced sound are welcome in the age of American Idol fecal matter. That said, some stuff misses, meaning this is not the best album of the year. Sleater-Kinney the Woods retains that title for now. If you want something safe and predictable, go back to Dave Mathews.… Expand
  14. LB
    Jun 10, 2005
    8
    Pretty decent album. It will catch you off guard. I didn't think it was that good on first listen and was disappointed by the lack of guitars but, after a few listens, I can tell you that most of the songs are pretty good (Blue Orchid, My Doorbell, Take Take Take, Red Rain and so on). However, some songs are lacking that extra something to put them over the top.
  15. Morgan
    Jun 19, 2005
    8
    Doesn't quite deliver the White Stripes' customary knock-out a-side (though it comes close with songs like "My Doorbell" and "Little Ghost"), but then it doesn't slack off as much as some of their earlier albums do on the b-side either. A few tossed-off lyrics aside, hearing this album for the first time is just as exhilarating as first hearing "Elepant" or "The White Stripes."
  16. BDW
    Jun 7, 2005
    8
    A phenominal album that is held back from being a classic by an inferior middle section. Any of tracks 1, 3, 5, 9, 11, or 13 could be thrown into any part of any mix CD and instantly take a compilation to the next level. Some great artists make totally new albums each time out; other great artists make the same album again and again...you could make a case for the White Stripes belonging A phenominal album that is held back from being a classic by an inferior middle section. Any of tracks 1, 3, 5, 9, 11, or 13 could be thrown into any part of any mix CD and instantly take a compilation to the next level. Some great artists make totally new albums each time out; other great artists make the same album again and again...you could make a case for the White Stripes belonging in either category (which is a testament to their ability to expand and contract their boundries within a single moment). Well worth the $8 Meijer is currently charging.… Expand
  17. JeffW
    Jun 8, 2005
    8
    This album is a must have for any fan of music in general and is much better than other new releases this week... *cough* Coldplay *cough*. It lacks The killer songs like Ball and Biscuit, True we love.... and Seven Nation Army off of Elephant but it makes up for that with Little Ghost, Denial Twist, Take Take Take and I'm Lonely. I Think Elephant is a better album so thats why I This album is a must have for any fan of music in general and is much better than other new releases this week... *cough* Coldplay *cough*. It lacks The killer songs like Ball and Biscuit, True we love.... and Seven Nation Army off of Elephant but it makes up for that with Little Ghost, Denial Twist, Take Take Take and I'm Lonely. I Think Elephant is a better album so thats why I only gave it an 8 but this is the must buy before X and Y… Expand
  18. cleopatraj
    Jun 8, 2005
    8
    i was beginning to think after "elephant" that jack white was running out of ideas. he perfected his spontaneous, no nonsense blues-rock on de stijl and seemed to be re-hashing the same formula on the subsequent releases. well, ole jack proved me wrong with this one. the new direction, if not absolutely necessary, is intriguing and fun. the same "press the record button as soon as you get i was beginning to think after "elephant" that jack white was running out of ideas. he perfected his spontaneous, no nonsense blues-rock on de stijl and seemed to be re-hashing the same formula on the subsequent releases. well, ole jack proved me wrong with this one. the new direction, if not absolutely necessary, is intriguing and fun. the same "press the record button as soon as you get in the studio" creative process of all their prior releases continues along with sharp and witty songwriting. the only difference is that the instruments have changed, which in turn transform the tone and mood. jack white is all about honesty, which is precisely why he purposefully recorded an album in a short amount of time. the most important part of his music is taking the first thing that pops into his head and stretching it into something--a song, a lyrical idea, a bridge...not to mention i would be pretty depressed if the stripes spent more time on their albums for obvious reasons. i'm sorry craig, but sitting in the studio for 10 months and crafing intricate soundscapes does not qualify your band as superior songwriters (actually in the beatles case, george martin who did all the studio work...or in pink floyd's case, a lot of engineers...the beatles didn't even have to play live for god sakes when they were camping out in the studio)...besides i love the beatles white album the best, which was hurried, raw, a mess, interesting and fun solely because of it. don't get me wrong, studio craftemanship and provocative uses of technology are fantastic but thank god that's not the only way for people to make a rock album. who says rock has to be polished anyway? wasn't that the whole point of it back in the early days? (robert johnson, muddy waters, early stones, etc.). i mean, sometimes i get tired of hearing thom yorke's voice through ten thousand effect filters and just want to hear a naked, raspy jack white wail. the point is to express that haphazard human spirit the best way it knows how: through nuance, imperfection, and honesty.… Expand
  19. PabloG
    Jul 1, 2005
    8
    Good but it just proves that Jack White needs a new drummer or to start his solo career right now. Meg's preschool drumming worked for their first records, but it's been 5+ years and she still hasn't improved past banging the drums like a little kid and it makes the music sound childish in a bad way. Jack White, get rid of Meg.
  20. chirsf
    Jul 14, 2005
    8
    You definitely need to listen to this album a few times before you get a taste for it. Its awesome, but I would of liked more rock songs. But all in all I still feel satisfied after I listen to it. 'The Nurse' and 'Red Rain" are very cool experiment rock songs that are so different from anything else out there. Fav tracks: Blue Orchid, The Nurse, Red Rain and Take Take Take.
  21. VIk
    Jul 3, 2005
    8
    An intriguing release from the white stripes; i became a lat fan to the group after elephant which is one amazingly execellent album. GBMS is completely different but in a good way;instead of competing with the perfection of the previous release it moves in a darker direction, has more depht - it takes repeated listenings but is so rich in atmosphere and mystery- the simmering piano An intriguing release from the white stripes; i became a lat fan to the group after elephant which is one amazingly execellent album. GBMS is completely different but in a good way;instead of competing with the perfection of the previous release it moves in a darker direction, has more depht - it takes repeated listenings but is so rich in atmosphere and mystery- the simmering piano ballads, the bluesy distorted guitars, the dark emotions, an exotic instrument or two....no wonder Jack was inspired to marry in the Amazon! May the stripes continue to create great stuff like this!… Expand
  22. JakeS
    Jul 4, 2005
    8
    Overall outstanding. A couple flat moments, but still better than anything else in 2005. "Take Take Take" is incredible.
  23. SeppoK
    Jul 8, 2005
    8
    Pretty good album, best I have heard albums released this year. Little unfinished, but still very enjoyable.
  24. Ruth
    Jun 6, 2005
    8
    This is not the best album the Stripes have come out with, but it's solid and I'm enjoying it. The White Stripes fan community is pretty divided over the new direction the band is headed, but I'm all for it. Jack's work with the electric guitar is amazing, but I've always loved his piano ballads and his acoustic stuff as well, so I'm fine with the fact that This is not the best album the Stripes have come out with, but it's solid and I'm enjoying it. The White Stripes fan community is pretty divided over the new direction the band is headed, but I'm all for it. Jack's work with the electric guitar is amazing, but I've always loved his piano ballads and his acoustic stuff as well, so I'm fine with the fact that there are only 3 tracks with the electric guitar (notice the number 3). The marimba is a nice addition on "The Nurse." "My Doorbell" has a nice motown feel, different from anything the Stripes have done before. "Instinct Blues" parallels "Ball and Biscuit" and "Death Letter" nicely. "I'm Lonely (But I Ain't That Lonely Yet)" ends the album perfectly. Meg hasn't gotten any better and that's fine with me. It's well worth your time and money to purchase this album.… Expand
  25. PaulH
    Jul 3, 2005
    8
    Not nearly Their best but still some great stuff here, I've been hooked on it for a while even though some of the tracks do seem unfinished.
  26. sM
    Aug 7, 2005
    8
    Not quite the masterpiece that was "Elephant" but a interesting and wonderfully weird alternative to their usual sound.
  27. MattD
    Feb 26, 2006
    8
    some great new stuff on here, suprised me in a few different ways, mostly good, and while its not all gold and not the white stripe's best, in my opinion its still a solid cd
  28. ChrisU
    Apr 14, 2006
    8
    This definitely a departure from their previous two records. Jack White is experimenting with the boundaries of his own songwriting, instead of the distortion through his amplifiers. I am a true White Stripes fan, and really loved the garage rock displayed in their self-titled album as well as De Stijl. So when I listened to this album, I didn't like it at first because I didn't This definitely a departure from their previous two records. Jack White is experimenting with the boundaries of his own songwriting, instead of the distortion through his amplifiers. I am a true White Stripes fan, and really loved the garage rock displayed in their self-titled album as well as De Stijl. So when I listened to this album, I didn't like it at first because I didn't know how to take it. Then, I listened to it again. And again. And after about the fourth spin I realized this is truly a remarkable record. Bravo to Jack White. It's obvious he said fuck all of the loud rock pretensions, and instead decided to take the White Stripes in a completely new direction. There are a couple of iffy songs here, but there are also some simplistic gems, such as "My Doorbell," "The Denial Twist," "Take, Take, Take," "I'm As Ugly As I Seem," "Red Rain," and the album's closer "I'm Lonely..." It's a breath of fresh, if unexpected, air. If you don't already have it, get this album. It will open your eyes.… Expand
  29. JoeR
    Jan 25, 2007
    8
    as a complete album, it is solid - it adds more range, and does it well. This band is a breath of fresh air in a world of over-produced garbage. i don't know who to like more, the black keys or the white stripes. both two man operations, both incredibly bad ass...
  30. Ricko
    Jun 29, 2012
    8
    Really strong follow up to their mulitple hit spawning Elephant record. This album see's the White Stripes try some new tricks, being experimental while at the same time retaining their blues rock core. Although it doesn't have as many catchy numbers as it's predecessors and it may not always be as consistent as we're used to hearing from them, it's got some of their finest moments on it.Really strong follow up to their mulitple hit spawning Elephant record. This album see's the White Stripes try some new tricks, being experimental while at the same time retaining their blues rock core. Although it doesn't have as many catchy numbers as it's predecessors and it may not always be as consistent as we're used to hearing from them, it's got some of their finest moments on it. Red Rain, Take Take Take, Blue Orchid and The Denial Twist would all walk onto any rock album out there. To compliment those tracks you've got the more peculiar ones like The Nurse and Little Ghost. Much better than it's follow up Icky Thump.… Expand
  31. vscoott345
    Apr 26, 2012
    8
    Very nicely done! I just adore The White Stripes. Jack White is so amazing, and the songs on this album just do not disappoint. It was very sad to see them break up, but I'm glad that we still have albums like this around.
  32. Tmz
    Jan 3, 2020
    8
    É um grande álbum, com músicas realmente boas, mas há algo que parece faltar quando comparamos com Elephant, talvez seja porque Get Behind Me Satan seja o álbum menos ousado ainda que o uso de instrumentos diversificados seja louvável
  33. LennonM
    Jun 10, 2005
    7
    Definitely a different sound, but anyone who's listened to the White Stripes realizes this, well unles your one of those idiots who thinks the White Stripes are all about Elephant. As usual Jack changed up the sound, just can't say I really was too impressed. None the less, it's a good album. Give it a 7.
  34. TerrenceO
    Jul 21, 2005
    7
    Often sounds unsure of its self. While its few experiments are noble they are evenly split amongst brilliant successess and brutal failures. As per usual with the White Stripes there are a number of stellar tracks, but there is also more than enough recycled sounding filler to go around... it left my regular rotation with in a week.
  35. MattT
    Jun 16, 2005
    7
    There are some great songs on this album, but overall it feels more experimental and less classic than elephant
  36. BrockR
    Jun 28, 2005
    7
    I want to give this album more being a die hard fan but cant. jack distancing himself from the guitar is a noble effort but in the end just not as good as previous albums. I give credit for trying something knew. And what is this about people complaining about the album being rushed???!!! They did Elephant in about the same amount of time and it was terrific! the Strokes? come on! Go pop I want to give this album more being a die hard fan but cant. jack distancing himself from the guitar is a noble effort but in the end just not as good as previous albums. I give credit for trying something knew. And what is this about people complaining about the album being rushed???!!! They did Elephant in about the same amount of time and it was terrific! the Strokes? come on! Go pop in your Flickerstick cd you loser! The cd includes a few great very catchy songs. I'm lonely but I ain't that lonely yet does have a very Elliott Smith feel to it someone mentioned. I truly believe this will be the last White Stripes album as Jack has an album coming out this year with Brenden Benson. (fellow Detroitian who Jack has convered in the past) I think Jack is trapped in his own limitations and I am anxious to see what he can pull off with no envelopes to push.… Expand
  37. johng
    Jun 7, 2005
    7
    this is beyond words..... but not in a good way. The Nurse is so creepy, its stupid. good songs: Blue Orchid, My Doorbell, The Denial Twist, Instinct Blues, ...Take, Take, Take,... Red Rain. bad songs: the nurse, Forver For Her( Over For Me), White Moon, Passive Manipulation, As Ugly As I Seem. the rest are somewhere in between, more or less badley.
  38. lowrykun
    Dec 14, 2005
    7
    I hadn't really listened to the White Stripes before getting this album. The first time I listened to it I didn't really like it and didn't understand their popularity. The second time I liked it better. By the third time I went back and bought Elephant. Still - there are some tracks on this album that I really don't like. But the thing is that when the White Stripes I hadn't really listened to the White Stripes before getting this album. The first time I listened to it I didn't really like it and didn't understand their popularity. The second time I liked it better. By the third time I went back and bought Elephant. Still - there are some tracks on this album that I really don't like. But the thing is that when the White Stripes rock, they really rock. They are like a weird mix of Classic rock, Alternative Rock, and Minimalist Progressive Rock. Hard to describe.… Expand
  39. j30
    Sep 22, 2011
    7
    An average follow-up to their classic album Elephant. It's like they're trying to pull a Kid A on us and it nearly works. Some of their best songs to date are a product of the record, which include Blue Orchard, Denial Twist, and My Doorbell.
  40. Matt
    Jun 7, 2005
    6
    Disappointed. Only a few interesting songs. Most of them are easy to get bored of, overal sound of the white stripes are repetitive and easy to get bored of in my opinion.
  41. bbb
    Jul 30, 2005
    6
    great musically.......but that voice....
  42. K-Van
    Jun 21, 2005
    6
    I've never heard of Paste Magazine, but their quote says it best. Get Behind Me Satan is easy to admire, but hard to love. I admire Jake White for taking a different direction than the previous albums. It's just too bad that the direction doesn't offer many inspiring tracks. The album has its moments though. I like Blue Orchid, Denial Twist, and Take, Take, Take. The rest I've never heard of Paste Magazine, but their quote says it best. Get Behind Me Satan is easy to admire, but hard to love. I admire Jake White for taking a different direction than the previous albums. It's just too bad that the direction doesn't offer many inspiring tracks. The album has its moments though. I like Blue Orchid, Denial Twist, and Take, Take, Take. The rest of the songs pass in one ear and out the other. This album does get better with repeated listens, but I can't shake that it feels incomplete and is void of the memorable songs that made Elephant a hit.… Expand
  43. hydrawithears
    Oct 31, 2011
    6
    There is a reason why in 2005 The White Stripes received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group instead of Best Rock Vocal Performance or Best Rock Song. The opening Blue Orchid may not suggest it but Get Behind Me Satan is the bandâ
  44. AdrianW
    Jul 1, 2005
    5
    Who do they think they are? I think it's possible that the white stripes are trying to be too white stripes. I'd like to think I know a good album when I hear one and I feel this is kind of getting love because it's the white stripes and it SHOULD be good. rather disappointed. and this from a guy who thought elephant was the best release in it's year...
  45. DeanM
    Jun 13, 2005
    5
    Derivative, needs more work...Sloppy CD overall. Lacks the energy of the other cd's with the exception of a couple tracks. Boo...
  46. Vampire25
    Jan 29, 2011
    5
    Get Behind Me Satan will divide fans, and it sure has divided me. I loved White Blood Cells and Elephant. But Get Behind Me Satan does not sound like a White Stripes album at all. This album has some good ideas, but ultimately it just doesn't have that feel the previous two albums have. The first three songs are great, so I was feeling hopeful about it, but it really falls flat after that.Get Behind Me Satan will divide fans, and it sure has divided me. I loved White Blood Cells and Elephant. But Get Behind Me Satan does not sound like a White Stripes album at all. This album has some good ideas, but ultimately it just doesn't have that feel the previous two albums have. The first three songs are great, so I was feeling hopeful about it, but it really falls flat after that. All In All, I love that they're trying new sounds, but The White Stripes need to stick to their basics. C… Expand
  47. alecvl08
    Oct 14, 2014
    5
    The White Stripes have a style and sound that I've never understood. Is it just me, or do lyrics like "And all the chickens get it, and them singing canaries get it, woo, oh, woo, now even strawberries get it, I want you to get with it, yeah, yeah, I want you to get with it, oh, yeah, I want you to get with it," sound a teeny bit childish and stupid? It's not bad, and there are a handfulThe White Stripes have a style and sound that I've never understood. Is it just me, or do lyrics like "And all the chickens get it, and them singing canaries get it, woo, oh, woo, now even strawberries get it, I want you to get with it, yeah, yeah, I want you to get with it, oh, yeah, I want you to get with it," sound a teeny bit childish and stupid? It's not bad, and there are a handful of good tracks, but gosh, this White Stripes thing is way overhyped.… Expand
  48. Carrick
    Apr 10, 2020
    5
    No doubt my least favorite album of The White Stripes. A few songs on here are memorable (My Doorbell, Little Ghost, and The Denial Twist) but most of it is bland.
  49. tibszero
    Jun 9, 2005
    4
    I only gave this album a 4 in the hopes that it will grow on me otherwise it seems more like a 2. I adore the White Stripes but sadly I think this will be just an embarrassing side note in their career.
  50. NofsGrrl
    Jun 7, 2005
    4
    It KILLS me to say this, because from one album to the next these guys have continued to impress and entertain. But this album has none of the brilliance that the rest do. Get Behind me Satan sound like two people who are trying to imitate the White Stripes and failing miserably. Maybe Jack didn't put enough effort into this one... maybe he put too much. Whatever it is, I hope It KILLS me to say this, because from one album to the next these guys have continued to impress and entertain. But this album has none of the brilliance that the rest do. Get Behind me Satan sound like two people who are trying to imitate the White Stripes and failing miserably. Maybe Jack didn't put enough effort into this one... maybe he put too much. Whatever it is, I hope it's fixed by the next album.… Expand
  51. robbieD
    Jun 21, 2005
    4
    i dont get the white stripes. There not terrible but there pretty bad. They have they like 5 good songs in 5 cds. I really dont get why they are praised to be so damn amazing. Anyone who recordes a cd in 2 weeks should be shot. Real bands with talent and respect for themselves are the strokes, they have been working on there new cd for 3 years now they want to get it right. Jack white i dont get the white stripes. There not terrible but there pretty bad. They have they like 5 good songs in 5 cds. I really dont get why they are praised to be so damn amazing. Anyone who recordes a cd in 2 weeks should be shot. Real bands with talent and respect for themselves are the strokes, they have been working on there new cd for 3 years now they want to get it right. Jack white just recordes crap because he knows that a bunch of dumbasses that want to be cool will say it is the greatest cd ever. Anyone who says this cd is a gift and is amazing should listen to the strokes- Is this it? or some libertines or even old school the clash. The white stripes are just an embarrasment to this music.… Expand
  52. SpongeBob
    Jul 10, 2005
    4
    Bizarre. And not in a good way. The White Stripes made their name due to their experimental, simple catchy rock tunes which used only a guitar and drum. So having bought the new album, i was pleased with the first song as this generally followed their pattern. Then came 'The Nurse' and at this point i'm beginning to wonder if the song has a chorus or anything (it Bizarre. And not in a good way. The White Stripes made their name due to their experimental, simple catchy rock tunes which used only a guitar and drum. So having bought the new album, i was pleased with the first song as this generally followed their pattern. Then came 'The Nurse' and at this point i'm beginning to wonder if the song has a chorus or anything (it doesn't). By the time we come to 'Little Ghost' i think that some 90+ folk-singer from Texas must have secrety swapped his album for mine in the shop while i wasn't looking. Nope. It's the (very famous) White Stripes. Quite frankly, if this album was under a different name people wouldn't even look at it twice. Amazing how some can earn millions while strumming a tambourine tunelessly...… Expand
  53. JimmyS
    Jun 30, 2005
    3
    Hadn't heard one song on the new album but bought it anyway going on the strengh of a great album in Elephant. What a mistake! Big departure from Elephant, left me thinking what the hell I had done! Found Blue Orchid a good start for the album, then after that you could feel that all the songs were thrown together in no time. Jack's voice became very annoying after the 4th song, Hadn't heard one song on the new album but bought it anyway going on the strengh of a great album in Elephant. What a mistake! Big departure from Elephant, left me thinking what the hell I had done! Found Blue Orchid a good start for the album, then after that you could feel that all the songs were thrown together in no time. Jack's voice became very annoying after the 4th song, at which point I was struggling. Having listened to the album twice, and for the first time in my life with any album, I can't struggle a third. Can't believe this rubbish is getting 4/5 stars in most reviews I read! People are gone insane!… Expand
  54. EricG
    Jun 10, 2005
    3
    is this a tribute to ledzepplin?
  55. cjmarke
    Jun 12, 2005
    3
    Really like the band, waited patiently for this album, feel let down. It just isn''t as listeneable as the past two records.
  56. DaveH
    Jul 10, 2005
    3
    I am and will remain a White Stripes admirer. This album, "Shark Sandwich".
  57. Craig
    Jun 7, 2005
    3
    Welcome to the de-evolution of rock and roll. Just because a band doesn't sound like anyone else that doesn't make them great. There was a time when people eagerly awaited the next masterpiece by The Beatles or Led Zeppelin or Pink Floyd. Those bands (especially The Beatles and Pink Floyd) worked meticulously in the studio to master their craft and push the sonic boundaries of Welcome to the de-evolution of rock and roll. Just because a band doesn't sound like anyone else that doesn't make them great. There was a time when people eagerly awaited the next masterpiece by The Beatles or Led Zeppelin or Pink Floyd. Those bands (especially The Beatles and Pink Floyd) worked meticulously in the studio to master their craft and push the sonic boundaries of music. Radiohead would be a more modern example. This clown goes into a studio for two weeks with his crappy drummer and hurries through a bunch of songs and it's a masterpiece? Most of these songs sound undeveloped and sloppy. Apparently it's cool to like this band, but I'm sorry I don't see the genius in this record at all.… Expand
  58. BillyB
    Apr 28, 2007
    3
    I agree completely with John R. There's no doubt that the white stripes are good song writers (mostly), but musically, they don't have much to show. How can so many critics look past this? Hell, I can count 2 (or 3 (can't remember exactly)) songs on the album that are based on the 12 bar blues progression itself! (root/ 4th/ root/ root/ 4th/ 4th/ root/ root/ 5th/ 4th/ root/ I agree completely with John R. There's no doubt that the white stripes are good song writers (mostly), but musically, they don't have much to show. How can so many critics look past this? Hell, I can count 2 (or 3 (can't remember exactly)) songs on the album that are based on the 12 bar blues progression itself! (root/ 4th/ root/ root/ 4th/ 4th/ root/ root/ 5th/ 4th/ root/ 5th... and so on) As a musician, this annoys me. A band that's critically acclaimed and has no talent. Unfortunately, most bands are like that today...… Expand
  59. JohnR
    Dec 25, 2006
    3
    Is it just me or does anyone else think that the White Stripes are totally over-rated? I agree that the songs are very good, but as performers they are rubbish - the 'drummer' is the worst I've heard & seems to monopolise every track. I could supply a better 'beat' than she could... Try hearing the songs without the 'thud' and they are all very good - Is it just me or does anyone else think that the White Stripes are totally over-rated? I agree that the songs are very good, but as performers they are rubbish - the 'drummer' is the worst I've heard & seems to monopolise every track. I could supply a better 'beat' than she could... Try hearing the songs without the 'thud' and they are all very good - add the drummer & they're ruined. Please, someone give her a different instrument & let the band evolve. Attractive she is, a drummer she isn't.… Expand
  60. sumsh
    Jun 7, 2005
    2
    By far, the WORST White Stripes album.
  61. BernieB
    Jun 10, 2005
    2
    The White Stripes have over-reached well beyond their capacity on this record. They have previously excelled at making simple, pared-down, blues-rock--copping a variety of moves from throughout blues history and running with it. Completely unoriginal, but they made some good records (De Stijl stands out). However, Jack is by no means a genious (a great imitator, at best), and Meg is a The White Stripes have over-reached well beyond their capacity on this record. They have previously excelled at making simple, pared-down, blues-rock--copping a variety of moves from throughout blues history and running with it. Completely unoriginal, but they made some good records (De Stijl stands out). However, Jack is by no means a genious (a great imitator, at best), and Meg is a barely serviceable drummer (even in the Moe Tucker school), and as a result, they released four samey-sounding discs steeped in influences and tradition (albeit fairly decent ones). Now, Jack's ego fueled by acclaim, they reach, reach, reach, but grab nothing. Jacks voice is grating, the arrangements are rushed, songs seem unfinished, and the charming levity that the Stripes previously brought to the table is completely gone. I think a lot of people desperately want to like GBMS and Jack and Meg, but after five records the gimmicks and constraints are old, so we're left with actual content. And this record is just bad.… Expand
  62. Steve
    Jun 7, 2005
    2
    The White Stripes are one of the most overrated bands ever, this was a dissapointment.
  63. ChrisJ
    Jun 9, 2005
    2
    This is an overhyped album by a band that can "seem" to do no wrong. Listen closely and you will hear experimentation gone wrong. This album is weak, inconsistent, boring, weird, and annoying. Meg can not sing, Jack needs to get some sun and learn a thing or two about music.
  64. AlexS
    Jan 1, 2006
    2
    terrible, just terrible. this cd has few, if any redeeming qualities
  65. markw
    Jun 18, 2005
    0
    This disc is a huge waste of time and a big long yawn always on the verge of putting me to sleep.I should kill my wife for putting this back in my basket after I removed it.Unfinished music,unfinished lyrics,unfinished booklet,the last laugh is on all the people who go out and buy this garbage...This is all the proof needed to argue that downloading should be legal,,,though I This disc is a huge waste of time and a big long yawn always on the verge of putting me to sleep.I should kill my wife for putting this back in my basket after I removed it.Unfinished music,unfinished lyrics,unfinished booklet,the last laugh is on all the people who go out and buy this garbage...This is all the proof needed to argue that downloading should be legal,,,though I wouldn't even waste the bandwidth if I were you...… Expand
  66. GabrielK
    Jun 15, 2005
    0
    overrated much!
  67. HaroldJ
    Jul 31, 2005
    0
    Worst Stripes album ever! I do not know what GBMS is *supposed* to be, but it is NOT a rock album. It is a horrible mess from start to finish. Blue Orchid starts the album out very poorly and the rest of the album is not much better. The White Stripes are capable of much more than GBMS. If you want to hear one of the best albums of all time, buy Elephant. GBMS is trash. Shame on Jack and Worst Stripes album ever! I do not know what GBMS is *supposed* to be, but it is NOT a rock album. It is a horrible mess from start to finish. Blue Orchid starts the album out very poorly and the rest of the album is not much better. The White Stripes are capable of much more than GBMS. If you want to hear one of the best albums of all time, buy Elephant. GBMS is trash. Shame on Jack and Meg for following up Elephant with such a garbage album.… Expand
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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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