Danko Jones B-Sides Danko Jones has carved out a sound and image quite unique in his 15 years in the biz. He’s streamlined it, in essence, to the point that he’s pretty instantly recognizable with the strum of a few chords, or in most cases, an opening line to one of his countless relationship sermons. But “B-Sides” shows just how he got there. Sure, of the 27 (!) tracks in all here, about half of them could comprise another unmistakable Danko record. One could even could argue that the best cuts of “B-Sides” would be his strongest record to date. But aside from the unmistakable Danko, which you get plenty of here, he’s had an almost James Brown feel at times in his past. See “Never Again,” and “Choose Me.” He’s had the garage rock swagger of the Stooges or Stones. See “Starlicker,” “Make A Move,” “Fucked Up,” “Thinking of You,” or “Big Bed.” Still “B-Sides” has some of his finest moments, and arguably songs that never should’ve been b-sides at all. “The Rules,” “Woogie Boogie,” “Sugar High,” and “My Problems (Are Your Problems Now)” are gems that would’ve stood out as highlights on any of his full-length efforts. Danko can also do a cover with the best of ’em. His version of Elvis Costello’s “Pump It Up” is outstanding, and he does the Ramones’ “The Return of Jackie and Judy”some serious justice. He pays homage to the now-defunct Rocket From The Crypt on “RIP RFTC,” which if he doesn’t do regularly in his set now, he damn well should. Some “lost track” collections are a waste of time. For Danko Jones, musically this goes all over the map, but in the total scope, it’s all rock ‘n’ roll. This may be “B-Sides,” but there’s almost nothing b-side about it. It’s further proof that this Canadian trio is the best “unknown” band in rock (at least in most of America, anyway). If they aren’t rock’s saviours, I don’t f*ckin’ know who is. – 9/10, B.J. Lisko