White Stripes

Yes, they have the look. Yes, they have the attitude. But what really launched the White Stripes from Detroit throwback curiosity to rock 'n' roll savior-dom is the songs, and De Stijl, their sophomore effort, show's the duo's power really beginning to burn. Zeplike in Jack's wailing voice and slide guitar, as well as with its pastoral, acoustic ballads, De Stijl hints at the eclectic instrumentation (piano, cello) explored more fully years later on Get Behind Me Satan.