Tom Waitts Where do I begin?


In NY, FUV, one of our small, cozy, radio stations has been doing a special through the day on Tom Waitt's music. I'm a believer, now. Where do I begin? Can you give me some albums to start with? thanks in advance. peace, warren
128x128warrenh
You should probably check out some of the movies that Tom has been in also. Check this link at the Internet Movie Data Base: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001823/
I seem to remember that he was a hoot in 'Mystery Men', and I just watched 'The Fisher King' again the other night; I realized that I hadn't recognized him the first time I saw the movie many years ago. He has a good part in there as a disabled veteran at the train station, talking to the Jeff Bridges character. Great movie.
OK guys. Started with Rain Dogs and Mule Variations. On Rain Dogs, particularly, his voice ( coming from a telephone receiver??) was a little hard, at first, but, man, can he write a song. Mule Variations is great! After a few more listens, I'll know if I'm ready for more. Think so. Thanks for the tips. peace, warren
Hey Warren-

If you like his lyrics, but the voice doesn't grab you, don't forget to try the cover albums mentioned in the thread, of which there are several excellent ones.

Holly Cole's "Temptation" and John Hammond's "Wicked Grin" are both outstanding. Waits without as much gristle and half the calories!

Marco
Marco, Got Temptation. Certainly loved his music, but Holly Cole's voice is hard to take for too long. Now, if Eva Cassidy were alive. Could listen to her for hours. I'm a man. I think I can take Waits straight. I'll see if I can handle it. Thinks it may happen.
I'm with you there on Eva, Warren! That woman could make The Back Street Boys sound listenable (ugh, what a thought though)! I do like Cole however and the recording's pretty darn good too with some great soundstaging. But definitely go for the gusto dude. The real thing builds character, and helps build strong bones in eight essential ways! I salute your manliness my friend! A toast to all things masculine! I'll drop my drawers today and look down and be reminded of you and of Tom Waits as I gaze upon my own manhood. You can take it Warren, I know you can. Just edge that volume up just a nudge each time you listen. Oh yeah, now we're talking. Eastwood and Hackman would be proud dude.

Marco