What makes Requiem for What's His Name by Marc Ribot notable?

This album is notable for its exploration of themes surrounding identity and existentialism, which resonated within the context of the early '90s cultural landscape. Critics praised it for its innovative approach to structure and sound, cementing Ribot's influence in the avant-garde music scene. By the release of 'Requiem for What's His Name' in 1992, Marc Ribot was already recognized for his distinctive guitar work on Tom Waits' albums, among others. This album marked a significant shift as it showcased his prowess not only as a guitarist but also as a composer and bandleader, stepping into the forefront after years of collaboration.

Who is Requiem for What's His Name for?

Requiem for What's His Name works well if you're into haunting reflections on disillusionment, brief tracks for quick engagement and introspective moments of tension.

How many songs are on Requiem for What's His Name?

Requiem for What's His Name has 15 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Requiem for What's His Name

Marc Ribot · 1992

50 min · 15 tracks · experimental music

An experimental collage of dissonance and eclectic rhythms, blending avant-garde jazz with raw vocal expressions.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Requiem for What's-His-Name — The title track serves as a haunting meditation on loss, featuring intricate guitar work that mirrors the emotional weight of its theme.
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Motherless Child — At just over a minute long, this track encapsulates profound sorrow through sparse instrumentation, highlighting Ribot's ability to convey deep emotion succinctly.
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Yo, I Killed Your God — This track embodies the album’s thematic core of rebellion and questioning authority, with sharp lyrics and a frenetic pace that captures anger and disillusionment.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting reflections on disillusionment
brief tracks for quick engagement
introspective moments of tension
a mix of urgency and
evocative imagery sparking thought

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party atmosphere
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: By the release of 'Requiem for What's His Name' in 1992, Marc Ribot was already recognized for his distinctive guitar work on Tom Waits' albums, among others. This album marked a significant shift as it showcased his prowess not only as a guitarist but also as a composer and bandleader, stepping into the forefront after years of collaboration.
Stylistic neighbors: John Zorn· Bill Frisell· Nels Cline