Tom Waits recommendations?
June 25th, 2008, at 7:38 PM
I just found out that I may be going to the Tom Waits show on Sunday (cross your fingers that the world’s awesomest sis-in-law really can watch the Bug in addition to her three kids).
I’ve always like Tom Waits when he comes on the radio, but I’ve never made the leap to buying any of his stuff. Maybe that means I don’t deserve to see him live, but my good excuse has always been that he’s just recorded too much and I don’t know where to start (I’m the same way with Elvis Costello).
So … can anybody tell me where to start? I’m thinking maybe “Real Gone?” Or maybe one of the albums for which he won a grammy?
June 25th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
My introduction to him was by way of “Nighthawks At The Diner.” It’s before he really started experimenting heavily with different sounds. It was new material recorded live in the studio for a small audience. Also, his between song banter is hilarious.
“Rain Dogs” is perhaps the classic one that everyone simply must own. I usually start my friends off easy by playing his early stuff and then let them travel down that wild and wonderful road to his current level of beautiful mania at their own pace.
Have fun! I’ll be happy to loan you some CDs from my collection.
Mike
June 25th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
I’m starting to think I might be over my head, here.
I guess that’s a good thing, really.
June 25th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
I shoulda been concise. I do tend to jump at the chance to go on and on about Tom.
Have fun listening to his stuff.
June 26th, 2008 at 8:40 pm
I second the “Nighthawks / Raindogs” rec and add Swordfishtrombones.
title track:
See you there!
June 27th, 2008 at 8:22 am
I got Raindogs yesterday and have been digging it. I’m looking forward to the show.
July 3rd, 2008 at 2:18 pm
I also love Nighthawks and Raindogs.
Mule Variations would also be good for your collection.