Shoe String Symphonettes
Marc Ribot · 1997
45 min · 14 tracks · experimental music
A kaleidoscopic blend of jazz, avant-garde, and experimental sounds that challenge conventional song structures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Aelita Suite I — This track exemplifies the album's experimental spirit through its intricate composition and diverse sonic textures, allowing Ribot to showcase his virtuosity and creativity.
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Hitman — A brief yet impactful piece that captures Ribot's distinctive blend of humor and darkness, illustrating his ability to evoke emotion within a concise format.
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You Kill Him — This track stands out for its narrative-driven lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, demonstrating Ribot's skill in weaving storytelling with musical experimentation.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- short bursts of creative chaos
- challenging soundscapes for exploration
- unexpected twists and turns
- experimental textures demanding attention
Maybe skip if you
- seeking traditional song structures
- prefer predictable listening experiences
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the time 'Shoe String Symphonettes' was released in 1997, Marc Ribot had already established himself as a notable guitarist within the avant-garde and jazz scenes, following his acclaimed work on Tom Waits' albums. This release marks a period where Ribot began to explore more complex arrangements and compositional forms, moving beyond traditional guitar-centric recordings.
- Stylistic neighbors
- John Zorn· Bill Frisell· Nels Cline
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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You Kill Him
The narrative sharply shifts from reflection to accusation creates a palpable tension throughout the song.
This shift not only heightens emotional stakes but also showcases Ribot's knack for blending lyrical storytelling with musical dynamics.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Looks Like Hell 2:18
- 2 Hitman 2:10
- 3 Aelita Suite I 6:48
- 4 Montuño 3:28
- 5 Bells 1:08
- 6 Aelita Suite II 3:06
- 7 Before the Prison Riot 3:28
- 8 You Kill Him 5:03
- 9 Surf's Down 1:27
- 10 Paul's There 2:24
- 11 Did You? 2:07
- 12 Aelita Suite III 6:55
- 13 End Credits (Landlord Blues) 2:12
- 14 End Credits (Death by Unnatural Causes) 2:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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