Live at Schuba's Tavern cover

Live at Schuba's Tavern

The Handsome Family · 2002

65 min · 25 tracks · alternative country · Americana

An intimate collection of hauntingly poetic Americana, blending dark storytelling with subtle, melodic instrumentation.

Why this album works

'Live at Schuba's Tavern' is significant for its raw presentation of The Handsome Family’s artistry, capturing the essence of their live performances. The album received positive reviews from various publications, highlighting its contribution to the Americana genre and further solidifying the band's cult status among fans of alternative country music.
Best for
intimate storytelling with interludes wave-like pacing for reflection haunting melodies for quiet moments
Context
By the time 'Live at Schuba's Tavern' was released in September 2002, The Handsome Family had already established themselves as an influential force in the alternative country scene, following their critically acclaimed album 'Through the Trees' (2003). This live recording showcases their unique sound and lyrical prowess as they blend humor and melancholy in a captivating performance.
Stylistic neighbors
Emmylou Harris· Bob Dylan· Dave Alvin

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Amelia Earhart vs. The Dancing Bear 3:20
  • 2 The Good Toothpicks 0:17
  • 3 So Much Wine Standout 3:56
  • 4 The Czar Bar 1:01
  • 5 Tinfoil 2:40
  • 6 A Beautiful Thing 3:44
  • 7 Vienna Sausages Hotline 0:53
  • 8 The Giant of Illinois Standout 3:12
  • 9 My Sister’s Tiny Hands 3:18
  • 10 Names for All His Shirts 0:36
  • 11 Cathedrals Standout 3:50
  • 12 Weightless Again 3:43
  • 13 Bony Bread 0:23
  • 14 Winnebago Skeletons 3:45
  • 15 Drunk by Noon 2:48
  • 16 Magic Balls (Introduction) 0:58
  • 17 The Sad Milkman 3:17
  • 18 Magic Balls (Conclusion) 2:06
  • 19 I Know You Are There 3:21
  • 20 Down in the Ground 3:10
  • 21 Arlene 3:45
  • 22 Moving Furniture Around 3:50
  • 23 Freebird 0:16
  • 24 My Ghost 2:43
  • 25 The Woman Downstairs 4:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata