Exclusive! Jack White: Monkey Lover

The Raconteurs have declared their love for Arctic Monkeys and assured fans their band isnt just a flash in the pan.

They spoke exclusively to MTV.co.uk before their gig at MTV2s Spanking New Music Week.

I love the Arctic Monkeys, says Jack White. Who doesnt! Id love to see them live, but havent got round to it yet. I never get to see bands because Im never in the same town for more than two seconds.

So does that mean hed like to work with them in the future? Yes, said the wry tune-merchant. Well start with the gardening and move on to the housework.

The Raconteurs Spanking New appearance rounds off their first week of British gigs, but Brendan Benson reveals theres more to come. Were a band with no expiration date, he says. Were just really focused. I guess well make music in one way or another for years.

Also playing at Birminghams Barfly are Dirty Pretty Things, iForward, Russia!, Larrikin Love, Fields and The On-Offs.

HV