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Unvarnished

by Joan Jett

Released: September 30, 2013

Hard rock

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Chart Success.

The Album

Overall, "Unvarnished" showcases Joan Jett's continuing passion for rock and roll, while also revealing her ability to create music that is profoundly personal and relatable. "Unvarnished" is a studio album by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, released in September 2013. This is her first studio album featuring new material since 2006.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

She played an active role in composing all…

She played an active role in composing all the songs in the album, which is an exploration of her life and experiences, making the album intimate and raw.

The themes of the songs in "Unvarnished" range…

The themes of the songs in "Unvarnished" range from reflections on the death of her parents, the pressures of fame, to the state of the world.

The album included tracks like "Reality Mentality" and…

The album included tracks like "Reality Mentality" and "Bad as We Can Be," both of which show Jett's characteristic gritty rock style.

"Any Weather," a standout track written and performed…

"Any Weather," a standout track written and performed with the Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl, is a testament to resilience and unwavering determination.

It is a powerful testament to her indomitable…

It is a powerful testament to her indomitable spirit and dedication to her craft.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Joan Jett - Unvarnished

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Then

Reception

The album was well-received and applauded by critics for showing a more personal side of Jett. The album was Jett's highest charting album in the US since 1983, reaching number 47 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Unvarnished" is a studio album by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, released in September 2013. This is her first studio album featuring new material since 2006. The album was Jett's highest charting album in the US since 1983, reaching number 47 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.

The album was well-received and applauded by critics for showing a more personal side of Jett. She played an active role in composing all the songs in the album, which is an exploration of her life and experiences, making the album intimate and raw. The themes of the songs in "Unvarnished" range from reflections on the death of her parents, the pressures of fame, to the state of the world.

The album included tracks like "Reality Mentality" and "Bad as We Can Be," both of which show Jett's characteristic gritty rock style. "Any Weather," a standout track written and performed with the Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl, is a testament to resilience and unwavering determination.

Overall, "Unvarnished" showcases Joan Jett's continuing passion for rock and roll, while also revealing her ability to create music that is profoundly personal and relatable. It is a powerful testament to her indomitable spirit and dedication to her craft.