Small Change
Tom Waits · 1976
50 min · 11 tracks · blues · jazz
A smoky dive bar ambiance captures the raw, introspective storytelling of life's misfits and lost souls.
Why this album works
'Small Change' is notable for its exploration of darker themes and gritty realism, which resonated deeply with audiences. The album features 'Tom Traubert’s Blues,' which has been covered by numerous artists and is considered one of Waits' signature songs, showcasing his influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
- Best for
- introspective storytelling moments dynamic emotional journeys smoky, atmospheric ambiance
- Context
- Released on September 21, 1976, 'Small Change' was Tom Waits' fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Nighthawks at the Diner.' At this point in his career, Waits had begun to solidify his unique voice that blended jazz, blues, and a theatrical narrative style, marking a significant evolution from his earlier folk-inspired sound.
- 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 Tom Traubert’s Blues (Four Sheets to the Wind in Copenhagen) Standout 6:39
- 2 Step Right Up 5:43
- 3 Jitterbug Boy (Sharing a Curbstone With Chuck E. Weiss, Robert Marchese, Paul Body and the Mug and Artie) 3:44
- 4 I Wish I Was in New Orleans (in the Ninth Ward) 4:53
- 5 The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me) (An Evening With Pete King) Standout 3:40
- 6 Invitation to the Blues Standout 5:24
- 7 Pasties and a G‐String (at the Two O’Clock Club) 2:32
- 8 Bad Liver and a Broken Heart (in Lowell) 4:50
- 9 The One That Got Away 4:07
- 10 Small Change (Got Rained On With His Own .38) 5:07
- 11 I Can’t Wait to Get Off Work (and See My Baby on Montgomery Avenue) 3:17
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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