It may come as a surprise to some that the White Stripes have never released any outtakes throughout their lengthy career. Most bands would jump at the opportunity to milk every last dollar from their adoring fan base, patching together worthless compilation after compilation. Frontman Jack White has been busy in 2009, delving into projects with the White Stripes, the Raconteurs, and Dead Weather. Thankfully, he’s found it in his heart to let fans hear how his primary band sounded in their developing years.
Third Man Records announced today that the White Stripes will exclusively release outtakes from the “Let’s Shake Hands” recording sessions in March 1998 to Platinum members of the Vault subscription service. This is the first time in the White Stripes’ celebrated career that they have released outtakes from any studio session. Alternate versions of “Let’s Shake Hands,” which was the duo’s first official 7″ release, along with its b-side “Look Me Over Closely,” will be part of the offering. Arguably, though, the most exciting part of the news blast (for fans of Jack White’s other bands) was that Vault members will also receive The Raconteurs: Live in London, a double LP, recorded in 2008, and a limited-edition Dead Weather screen-print poster designed by Rob Jones.
Registration for the next Vault Platinum membership service is open now until October 22nd.
Check out the Vault’s website for more information. You have to admire guys like Jack White and Neil Young who never seem to take a break.
