daringer

Daringer: A History of the Genre (or Lack Thereof)

Daringer isn’t a genre, it’s a name! Specifically, it belongs to Dan Auerbach, one half of the legendary blues rock duo, The Black Keys.

Dan Auerbach, a true musical chameleon, has donned the “Daringer” moniker for his solo projects, branching out beyond the gritty blues of his main act.

While “Daringer” doesn’t have a distinct sound, it’s characterized by Auerbach’s signature production style, blending elements of:

• Blues: Always a foundation, often with a vintage, raw feel.
• Soul: Auerbach’s smooth vocals and lush arrangements inject soulfulness into his music.
• Psychedelic: There’s a touch of trippy experimentation in some of his work, adding a mind-bending element.
• Country: Not overly prevalent, but some songs dip into country territory, showcasing his versatility.

Funny Facts about Dan Auerbach and the Black Keys:

• The “King of Fuzz”: Auerbach is known for his love of fuzz pedals, creating thick, distorted guitar sounds that are a trademark of both the Black Keys and his solo work. Legend has it he even had a custom fuzz pedal made that was shaped like a dildo!
• “The Band You’ve Never Heard Of”: Despite their immense success, the Black Keys were once mocked by a radio DJ who claimed they were “the band you’ve never heard of.” This only fueled their drive to prove him wrong!
• The “No Pants” Man: Auerbach is notorious for his love of wearing sweatpants, often seen onstage in casual attire while his bandmate Patrick Carney is dressed to the nines.
• A “Funny” Feud: During the early years of the Black Keys, there was a rumored “rivalry” between them and fellow blues rock band, The White Stripes. This was later revealed to be mostly a joke, though their music did share some similarities.

So, while “Daringer” may not be a genre in the traditional sense, it’s a testament to Dan Auerbach’s talent as a producer, songwriter, and musician. His solo work explores different sonic landscapes, showcasing a depth and versatility rarely seen in today’s music scene. And, as always, there’s a good dose of funny stories and quirks to be found along the way.