Brendan Benson
"The Alternative to Love" (CD)

Mr. Benson's third solo album was also his last before teaming up with long-time friend Jack White to record the Raconteur's debut album.

I think it's safe to say that this was his most successful solo album also. Between championing by the White Stripes, use in an iPod commercial and a couple of television appearances, this was about as much exposure as Brendan could manage before being lifted up to fame and fortune by Jack White.

Sadly, the intelligence and craftiness exhibited by Mr. Benson in his solo music doesn't translate real well to the harder-edged rock persona that Mr. White exudes.
This is why its nice to revisit his earlier music and enjoy the breezy smartness Brendan Benson fills each of his tunes with.