Tom Waits discarded his bohemian sage persona with the radical Swordfishtrombones, and this follow-up release synthesized and developed themes from that groundbreaking album. Ever-shifting percussive textures are supported, where applicable, by horns or farfisa organ and several guest musicians, including Rolling Stone Keith Richards, contribute to its melange. Waits’ bourbon-laced voice is as riveting as ever, intoning lyrics that are, at various times, touching, evocative, sly or simply funny. his off-kilter perceptions encompass country, polkas and heart-rending ballads, each of which he expresses with consummate ease.

A1. Singapore
A2. Clap Hands
A3. Cemetery Polka
A4. Jockey Full Of Bourbon
A5. Tango Till They’re Sore
A6. Big Black Mariah
A7. Diamonds And Gold
A8. Hang Down Your Head
A9. Time

B1. Rain Dogs
B2. Midtown (Instrumental)
B3. 9th & Hennepin
B4. Gun Street Girl
B5. Union Square
B6. Blind Love
B7. Walking Spanish
B8. Downtown Train
B9. Bride Of Rain Dog (Instrumental)
B10. Anywhere I Lay My Head