SINCE rock superstars The White Stripes split last year, frontman Jack White's next moves have been eagerly anticipated.

Stepping out on his own for his first solo album, the American musician seems determined to prove that he isn't dragging along the ghost of his former band with him.

Without the restraints of The White Stripes' distinctive style, White has been let loose, free to indulge in his abounding creativity.

Blunderbuss is a hyperactive journey taking in rock, blues, country, soul and rock 'n' roll and jumping from psychedelic freak-outs to grandiose piano statements, quirky rhyming to momentary reflection.

The album displays White's heightened eccentricity, and although it may be a little erratic, glimmers of brilliance shine through.