What makes Night on Earth by Tom Waits notable?

'Night on Earth' is significant for its artistic collaboration with filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, highlighting the intersection of music and cinema. The album's unconventional structure and instrumentation received positive critical reception, contributing to Waits' legacy as a pioneer of blending genres. Additionally, it played a notable role in shaping the soundtracks of independent films during the early 90s. By 1992, Tom Waits was transitioning into a more experimental phase after his critically acclaimed album 'Frank's Wild Years' in 1987. 'Night on Earth' serves as the soundtrack to Jim Jarmusch's film of the same name, showcasing Waits' unique ability to blend storytelling with diverse musical styles. This project further solidified his status as an avant-garde artist within both the music and film industries.

Who is Night on Earth for?

Night on Earth works well if you're into dynamic journey through moods, short tracks for quick engagement and atmospheric soundscapes for reflection.

How many songs are on Night on Earth?

Night on Earth has 16 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Night on Earth

Tom Waits · 1992

52 min · 16 tracks · blues · jazz

A cinematic tapestry of atmospheric jazz and blues, woven with poetic narratives and haunting melodies.

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Why this album works

'Night on Earth' is significant for its artistic collaboration with filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, highlighting the intersection of music and cinema. The album's unconventional structure and instrumentation received positive critical reception, contributing to Waits' legacy as a pioneer of blending genres. Additionally, it played a notable role in shaping the soundtracks of independent films during the early 90s.

Best for: dynamic journey through moods short tracks for quick engagement atmospheric soundscapes for reflection
Context: By 1992, Tom Waits was transitioning into a more experimental phase after his critically acclaimed album 'Frank's Wild Years' in 1987. 'Night on Earth' serves as the soundtrack to Jim Jarmusch's film of the same name, showcasing Waits' unique ability to blend storytelling with diverse musical styles. This project further solidified his status as an avant-garde artist within both the music and film industries.
Stylistic neighbors: Prince· Bette Midler· Blood, Sweat & Tears· Chicago· Weather Report· The Pointer Sisters· Steely Dan· Nancy Sinatra

Tracklist

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

1 Back in the Good Old World (Gypsy) 2:29
2 Los Angeles Mood (Chromium Descensions) Standout 2:35
3 Los Angeles Theme (Another Private Dick) 4:28
4 New York Theme (Hey, You Can Have That Heartattack Outside Buddy) 4:03
5 New York Mood (A New Haircut and a Busted Lip) 2:38
6 Baby I’m Not a Baby Anymore (Beatrice Theme) 1:58
7 Good Old World (Waltz) 2:46
8 Carnival (Brunello del Montalcino) 3:07
9 On the Other Side of the World Standout 5:19
10 Good Old World (Gypsy instrumental) 2:19
11 Paris Mood (Un de Fromage) 2:38
12 Dragging a Dead Priest Standout 3:59
13 Helsinki Mood 4:10
14 Carnival Bob’s Confession 2:16
15 Good Old World (Waltz) 3:55
16 On the Other Side of the World (instrumental) 3:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

Listen next

Bone Machine

1992

Go back to

The Early Years, Volume One

1991

Full Tom Waits discography Artists like Tom Waits

blues jazz