What makes Foreign Affairs by Tom Waits notable?

'Foreign Affairs' is notable for its lush orchestration and storytelling prowess, gaining positive reviews from critics like Robert Christgau. It also reached No. 28 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying Waits' position in the music industry during the late 1970s. Released on September 13, 1977, 'Foreign Affairs' was Tom Waits' fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Small Change.' By this point in his career, Waits had established himself as a distinctive voice in music, blending elements of jazz, blues, and experimental sounds. The album marked a period where Waits began to explore more sophisticated arrangements and lyrical depth.

Who is Foreign Affairs for?

Foreign Affairs works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, gradual builds and payoffs and late-night contemplative moods.

How many songs are on Foreign Affairs?

Foreign Affairs has 9 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Foreign Affairs

Tom Waits · 1977

42 min · 9 tracks · blues · jazz

A smoky blend of jazz-inflected blues and theatrical storytelling, drenched in Waits' signature gravelly vocals.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
gradual builds and payoffs
late-night contemplative moods
layered, dense sonic textures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on September 13, 1977, 'Foreign Affairs' was Tom Waits' fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Small Change.' By this point in his career, Waits had established himself as a distinctive voice in music, blending elements of jazz, blues, and experimental sounds. The album marked a period where Waits began to explore more sophisticated arrangements and lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors: Leonard Cohen· Nick Cave· Captain Beefheart

Tracklist

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

1 Cinny’s Waltz 2:17
2 Muriel 3:33
3 I Never Talk to Strangers 3:38
4 Medley: Jack & Neal / California, Here I Come 5:01
5 A Sight for Sore Eyes 4:40
6 Potter’s Field 8:40
7 Burma‐Shave 6:34
8 Barber Shop 3:54
9 Foreign Affair 3:46

What to play next

Listen next

Blue Valentine

1978

Go back to

Small Change

1976

Full Tom Waits discography Artists like Tom Waits

blues jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata