History cover

History

Loudon Wainwright III · 1992

46 min · 14 tracks · blues

A blend of introspective folk and wit, with a touch of blues-infused storytelling that captures life's complexities.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    People in Love Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Talking New Bob Dylan — This track cleverly critiques the music industry while showcasing Wainwright's sharp lyrical wit and cultural commentary that resonates throughout the album.
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    A Father and a Son — In this poignant narrative, Wainwright explores the complexities of father-son relationships, encapsulating emotional vulnerability with a storytelling approach that defines his songwriting.
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    So Many Songs — Here, Wainwright reflects on the nature of songwriting itself, blending humor and introspection in a way that captures the essence of an artist grappling with their craft.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing for reflective moments
  • poignant storytelling with humor
  • introspective themes of relationships
  • for quiet evenings

Maybe skip if you

  • seeks high-energy tracks
  • prefers standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Represents a high point in songwriting and emotional depth in Wainwright's catalog.
Themes
father-son dynamics· music industry critique· songwriting struggles
Career context
By 1992, Loudon Wainwright III had established himself as a distinctive voice in folk music, having released several albums since his debut in 1970. 'History' arrived following the commercial success of 'More Love Songs' (1991), showcasing his ability to combine humor and poignancy while reflecting on personal and universal themes.

Tracklist

  • 1 People in Love Start here 3:00
  • 2 Men 3:37
  • 3 The Picture 2:32
  • 4 When I'm at Your House 2:30
  • 5 The Doctor 4:02
  • 6 Hitting You 3:04
  • 7 I'd Rather Be Lonely 2:50
  • 8 Between 1:27
  • 9 Talking New Bob Dylan 3:35
  • 10 So Many Songs 3:53
  • 11 4 x 10 3:07
  • 12 A Father and a Son 3:21
  • 13 Sometimes I Forget 5:52
  • 14 A Handful of Dust 3:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata