The Heart of Saturday Night
Tom Waits · 1974
41 min · 11 tracks · blues · jazz
A smoky blend of jazz-inflected blues and poetic storytelling that evokes late-night introspection.
Why this album works
This album marked a significant moment for Waits, receiving positive critical acclaim and establishing him as an influential figure in the 1970s music landscape. Notably, it peaked at number 26 on the Billboard 200 chart, further cementing his place in popular music and influencing a generation of artists drawn to his narrative-driven songwriting and eclectic sound.
- Best for
- late-night introspection and reflection smoky atmosphere for winding down steady pacing for contemplative moments
- Context
- Released in January 1974, 'The Heart of Saturday Night' is Tom Waits' second studio album, following his debut 'Closing Time'. At this point, Waits was beginning to carve out his niche as a unique voice in the singer-songwriter scene, with this album solidifying his distinctive style that combined elements of jazz, blues, and beat poetry.
- 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 New Coat of Paint 3:23
- 2 San Diego Serenade Standout 3:30
- 3 Semi Suite 3:29
- 4 Shiver Me Timbers Standout 4:26
- 5 Diamonds on My Windshield 3:12
- 6 (Looking for) The Heart of Saturday Night Standout 3:53
- 7 Fumblin’ With the Blues 3:02
- 8 Please Call Me, Baby 4:25
- 9 Depot, Depot 3:46
- 10 Drunk on the Moon 5:06
- 11 The Ghosts of Saturday Night (After Hours at Napoleone’s Pizza House) 3:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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