Rain Dogs cover

Rain Dogs

Tom Waits · 1985

53 min · 19 tracks · blues · jazz

A gritty tapestry of jazz, blues, and experimental sounds woven with poetic storytelling and raw emotion.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with surprises
  • poetic storytelling for introspection
  • gritty emotional landscapes unfold
  • late-night wandering through thoughts
  • brief tracks for quick engagement

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking straightforward, upbeat tunes
  • prefer longer, cohesive narratives

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on September 30, 1985, 'Rain Dogs' marked a significant chapter in Tom Waits' career as it followed his acclaimed album 'Swordfishtrombones'. This record showcased his artistic reinvention, moving away from traditional rock into more avant-garde territory. It solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the alternative music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Leonard Cohen· Nick Cave· Captain Beefheart
If this clicks, go next to
Franks Wild Years — Continues the experimental sound and storytelling with a theatrical flair.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Singapore 2:46
  • 2 Clap Hands 3:47
  • 3 Cemetery Polka 1:51
  • 4 Jockey Full Of Bourbon 2:45
  • 5 Tango Till They're Sore 2:49
  • 6 Big Black Mariah 2:43
  • 7 Diamonds And Gold 2:31
  • 8 Hang Down Your Head 2:32
  • 9 Time 3:55
  • 10 Rain Dogs 2:56
  • 11 Midtown (Instrumental) 1:00
  • 12 9th & Hennepin 1:58
  • 13 Gun Street Girl 4:37
  • 14 Union Square 2:24
  • 15 Blind Love 4:18
  • 16 Walking Spanish 3:05
  • 17 Downtown Train 3:53
  • 18 Bride Of Rain Dog (Instrumental) 1:07
  • 19 Anywhere I Lay My Head 2:47

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata