Album Info
| Artist: | Tom Waits |
| Album: | Mule Variations |
| Released: | Europe, 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Big In Japan | |
| A2 | Lowside Of The Road | |
| A3 | Hold On | |
| A4 | Get Behind The Mule | |
| B1 | House Where Nobody Lives | |
| B2 | Cold Water | |
| B3 | Pony | |
| B4 | What's He Building? | |
| C1 | Black Market Baby | |
| C2 | Eyeball Kid | |
| C3 | Picture In A Frame | |
| C4 | Chocolate Jesus | |
| D1 | Georgia Lee | |
| D2 | Filipino Box Spring Hog | |
| D3 | Take It With Me | |
| D4 | Come On Up To The House |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Mule Variations," released in 1999, is a seminal album by the enigmatic and gravel-voiced Tom Waits. This album marked Waits' return to the studio after a six-year hiatus, and it was released under the Anti- label, a subsidiary of Epitaph Records. The album is a rich tapestry of sounds and stories, showcasing Waits' unique ability to blend blues, rock, and experimental music with his distinctive lyrical storytelling.
One of the standout features of "Mule Variations" is its raw and organic sound. Waits, along with his wife and collaborator Kathleen Brennan, crafted an album that feels both timeless and innovative. The production is intentionally rough around the edges, with Waits' voice often sounding like it's coming from a dusty old phonograph. This aesthetic choice adds to the authenticity and emotional weight of the songs.
The album opens with "Big in Japan," a track that immediately sets the tone with its driving beat and Waits' growling vocals. It's a song that captures the essence of Waits' persona—gritty, larger-than-life, and full of character. Another standout track is "Hold On," which is one of the more accessible songs on the album. It's a poignant ballad that showcases Waits' ability to convey deep emotion with simplicity and grace.
"Mule Variations" also features "What's He Building?", a spoken-word piece that exemplifies Waits' talent for creating vivid, unsettling narratives. The track is a monologue that leaves listeners on edge, wondering about the mysterious neighbor described in the song. This ability to evoke imagery and emotion through storytelling is a hallmark of Waits' work.
The album was met with critical acclaim upon its release. It won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album in 2000, a testament to its impact and the respect Waits commands in the music industry. Critics praised the album for its eclectic mix of styles and Waits' masterful songwriting. "Mule Variations" is often cited as one of Waits' best works, and it has been included in several "best of" lists, including Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.
Culturally, "Mule Variations" is significant for its exploration of American roots music. Waits draws from a deep well of blues, folk, and gospel influences, creating a sound that is both familiar and entirely his own. The album's themes of longing, redemption, and the human condition resonate with listeners, making it a timeless piece of art.
In addition to its critical success, "Mule Variations" has had a lasting influence on musicians across genres. Artists admire Waits for his uncompromising artistic vision and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional music forms. The album's experimental nature and its blend of different musical styles have inspired countless musicians to explore new sonic territories.
Overall, "Mule Variations" is a testament to Tom Waits' genius as a musician and storyteller. It captures the essence of his artistry—raw, unfiltered, and deeply human. The album invites listeners into a world that is both strange and familiar, filled with characters and stories that linger long after the music has stopped. For fans of Waits and newcomers alike, "Mule Variations" is an essential listen, offering a glimpse into the mind of one of music's most intriguing figures.
