What makes Chinatown by The Be Good Tanyas notable?

Chinatown received critical acclaim upon release, with praise for its lush arrangements and poignant songwriting. The album contributed to a resurgence of interest in folk music in the early 2000s and helped the band gain a dedicated following, with tracks like Waiting Around to Die becoming standouts in their live performances. Released in 2003, Chinatown was The Be Good Tanyas' second studio album, following their acclaimed debut, Blue Horse. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their presence in the Canadian folk scene while expanding their audience internationally, building on the foundational sound established in their first record.

Who is Chinatown for?

Chinatown works well if you're into haunting harmonies that linger, storytelling that evokes nostalgia and suitable for reflective moments.

How many songs are on Chinatown?

Chinatown has 14 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Chinatown

The Be Good Tanyas · 2003

56 min · 14 tracks · traditional folk music

A blend of haunting harmonies and raw storytelling that captures the essence of traditional folk while breathing new life into classic themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Waiting Around to Die — This cover of a classic blues song showcases the band's ability to infuse melancholy with rich harmonies, making it an emotional centerpiece of the album.
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In Spite of All the Damage — The track features intricate vocal interplay and reflects themes of resilience and vulnerability, embodying the album's overarching narrative.
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House of the Rising Sun — Their rendition brings a fresh perspective to a well-known traditional song, emphasizing haunting melodies and soulful instrumentation that highlights their folk roots.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting harmonies that linger
storytelling that evokes nostalgia
suitable for reflective moments
gentle pacing for quiet evenings
emotional depth in every track

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat and fast tempos
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2003, Chinatown was The Be Good Tanyas' second studio album, following their acclaimed debut, Blue Horse. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their presence in the Canadian folk scene while expanding their audience internationally, building on the foundational sound established in their first record.
Stylistic neighbors: The Wailin' Jennys· Nickel Creek· Laura Marling

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 It’s Not Happening 2:41
2 Waiting Around to Die 5:13
3 The Junkie Song 3:47
4 Ship Out on the Sea 4:13
5 Dogsong 2 5:08
6 Rowdy Blues 3:32
7 Reuben 4:23
8 House of the Rising Sun 3:49
9 In Spite of All the Damage 3:59
10 Lonesome Blues 4:17
11 In My Time of Dying 3:43
12 I Wish My Baby Was Born 3:50
13 Horses 4:01
14 Midnight Moonlight 3:45

What to play next

Listen next

Hello Love

2006

Go back to

Blue Horse

2000

Full The Be Good Tanyas discography Artists like The Be Good Tanyas

traditional folk music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata