Tom Waits - Swordfishtrombones (LP)

Tom Waits' "Swordfishtrombones," released in 1983, marks a significant departure from his earlier work, both in terms of musical style and thematic content. This album is often hailed as a turning point in Waits' career, showcasing his evolution from a jazz-influenced singer-songwriter to an avant-garde artist with a penchant for experimental sounds and unconventional narratives.

"Swordfishtrombones" is Waits' seventh studio album and the first one he produced himself, which allowed him greater creative control. This autonomy is evident in the album's eclectic mix of sounds and the innovative use of instruments. Waits incorporates everything from marimbas and bagpipes to brake drums and banjos, creating a sonic landscape that is as diverse as it is intriguing. The album's production is raw and unpolished, lending an authentic, almost gritty feel to the music.

The opening track, "Underground," sets the tone for the album with its driving rhythm and industrial sounds, evoking images of subterranean worlds and hidden societies. This is followed by "Shore Leave," a narrative-driven song that tells the story of a sailor's night on shore, complete with vivid imagery and Waits' distinctive growl. The use of unconventional percussion and dissonant melodies in this track exemplifies the album's experimental nature.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Johnsburg, Illinois," a tender ballad dedicated to Waits' wife, Kathleen Brennan. The simplicity of the piano accompaniment and the sincerity of Waits' vocals provide a stark contrast to the more chaotic and abrasive tracks on the album, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and performer.

"16 Shells From a Thirty-Ought-Six" is another highlight, featuring a driving beat and a bluesy, almost menacing feel. The song's lyrics are cryptic and filled with dark imagery, a hallmark of Waits' storytelling style. The use of unconventional instruments, such as the brake drum, adds to the song's unique sound and reinforces the album's experimental ethos.

The title track, "Swordfishtrombones," is a surreal narrative that blends elements of folk, blues, and avant-garde music. The song's lyrics are a series of vignettes that paint a picture of a bizarre, dreamlike world. Waits' gravelly voice and the sparse, haunting instrumentation create an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the song has ended.

"Down, Down, Down" and "Gin Soaked Boy" continue the album's exploration of dark, gritty themes, with Waits' storytelling prowess on full display. The former features a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency, while the latter is a slower, more contemplative track that delves into themes of addiction and despair.

The album closes with "Rainbirds," an instrumental piece that features a melancholic melody played on the marimba. This track serves as a fitting conclusion to the album, encapsulating the sense of melancholy and introspection that runs throughout.

"Swordfishtrombones" received critical acclaim upon its release and is often cited as one of Waits' best works. It was a commercial success as well, reaching number 164 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album's innovative use of instrumentation and its departure from traditional song structures have influenced countless artists and solidified Waits' reputation as a pioneer in the music industry.

In conclusion, "Swordfishtrombones" is a groundbreaking album that showcases Tom Waits' evolution as an artist. Its eclectic mix of sounds, innovative use of instruments, and compelling storytelling make it a standout work in his discography. The album's raw, unpolished production and its exploration of dark, gritty themes have left a lasting impact on the music world, cementing Waits' status as a true musical maverick.