Two Letter Words cover

Two Letter Words

Richard Thompson

119 min · 24 tracks · rock music

A tapestry of reflective storytelling woven with intricate guitar work and rich, emotive vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    I Ride in Your Slipstream Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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    1952 Vincent Black Lightning — This track stands out for its captivating storytelling and vivid imagery, encapsulating themes of love and loss against the backdrop of a classic motorcycle tale.
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    Dimming of the Day — Renowned for its emotional resonance, this song features lush instrumentation that complements Thompson's heartfelt delivery, making it a staple in his repertoire.
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    Beeswing — The narrative poignantly captures the fleeting nature of youth and freedom, set against a melodic backdrop that showcases Thompson's signature guitar work.
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    Shoot Out the Lights — This track is notable for its raw energy and compelling lyrics, reflecting Thompson's ability to blend personal experience with broader social commentary.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • introspective lyrics for deep thinking
  • dynamic flow with emotional peaks
  • for reflective late evenings
  • long listening sessions with stories
  • intricate melodies for focused attention

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek high-energy party music

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality after a five-year hiatus, contributing to his recognition.
Themes
1952 motorcycle romance· fleeting youth nostalgia· heartbreak in dimly lit bars
Career context
Released in 2006, Two Letter Words marked Richard Thompson's return to the studio after a five-year hiatus following the acclaimed album, Mock Tudor. At this point in his career, Thompson was solidifying his status as a respected figure in folk-rock, showcasing his mastery in blending personal narratives with broader cultural themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Nick Lowe· John Hiatt· Elvis Costello
New to Richard Thompson? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 I Ride in Your Slipstream Start here 4:41
  • 2 From Galway to Graceland 4:10
  • 3 Easy There Steady Now 5:31
  • 4 Waltzing’s for Dreamers 3:56
  • 5 I Can’t Wake Up to Save My Life 3:27
  • 6 MGB‐GT 4:06
  • 7 The Way That It Shows 7:28
  • 8 Al Bowlly’s in Heaven 6:28
  • 9 Now Be Thankful 3:43
  • 10 Mascara Tears 3:35
  • 11 Tear Stained Letter 9:18

Disc 2

  • 1 Dimming of the Day 3:27
  • 2 1952 Vincent Black Lightning 5:04
  • 3 Beeswing 5:56
  • 4 Mingus Eyes 4:49
  • 5 Killerman Gold Posse 3:09
  • 6 Shoot Out the Lights 6:28
  • 7 Valerie 3:36
  • 8 Wall of Death 3:42
  • 9 I Feel So Good 4:05
  • 10 Hokey Pokey 5:49
  • 11 Ghosts in the Wind 6:52
  • 12 Back Street Slide 4:27
  • 13 Read About Love 5:05

What to play next

Sweet Warrior
Listen next

Sweet Warrior

2007

Continues the reflective storytelling with rich instrumentation and emotive vocals.
Mirror Blue
Go back to

Mirror Blue

1994

Sets the stage with similar themes of introspection and intricate guitar work.
Full Richard Thompson discography Where to start with Richard Thompson Artists like Richard Thompson
rock music

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Pink Moon

Pink Moon

Nick Drake

Shares intimate storytelling and intricate guitar work, evoking a similar reflective mood.

Solid Air

Solid Air

John Martyn

Combines rich vocals and emotive lyrics with layered guitar textures, enhancing personal narratives.

History

History

Loudon Wainwright III

Explores themes of nostalgia and heartbreak through sharp, personal songwriting and acoustic arrangements.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata