spinsource
Log in Sign up
My Music Log in Sign up
Small Change cover

Small Change

Tom Waits

Album 1976
Log in to track this album

About this album

Sound: "A smoky dive bar ambiance captures the raw, introspective storytelling of life's misfits and lost souls."

Where they were

Released on September 21, 1976, 'Small Change' was Tom Waits' fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'Nighthawks at the Diner.' At this point in his career, Waits had begun to solidify his unique voice that blended jazz, blues, and a theatrical narrative style, marking a significant evolution from his earlier folk-inspired sound.

Why it matters

'Small Change' is notable for its exploration of darker themes and gritty realism, which resonated deeply with audiences. The album features 'Tom Traubert’s Blues,' which has been covered by numerous artists and is considered one of Waits' signature songs, showcasing his influence on subsequent generations of musicians.

Essential tracks

  • "Tom Traubert’s Blues (Four Sheets to the Wind in Copenhagen)" — This track epitomizes Waits' ability to fuse poetic lyrics with a haunting melody, capturing the essence of longing and despair.
  • "The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me) (An Evening With Pete King)" — With its clever wordplay and sardonic humor, this song highlights Waits' signature style while reflecting on the absurdities of life.
  • "Invitation to the Blues" — This track showcases Waits’ blend of jazz and blues influences, delivering an emotional narrative about heartache and yearning.
  • "I Wish I Was in New Orleans (in the Ninth Ward)" — A celebration of place and nostalgia, this song's vibrant imagery transports listeners to the streets of New Orleans, making it a standout piece.

Release Date

September 21, 1976

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Tom Traubert’s Blues (Four Sheets to the Wind in Copenhagen) 6:39
  2. 2 Step Right Up 5:43
  3. 3 Jitterbug Boy (Sharing a Curbstone With Chuck E. Weiss, Robert Marchese, Paul Body and the Mug and Artie) 3:44
  4. 4 I Wish I Was in New Orleans (in the Ninth Ward) 4:53
  5. 5 The Piano Has Been Drinking (Not Me) (An Evening With Pete King) 3:40
  6. 6 Invitation to the Blues 5:24
  7. 7 Pasties and a G‐String (at the Two O’Clock Club) 2:32
  8. 8 Bad Liver and a Broken Heart (in Lowell) 4:50
  9. 9 The One That Got Away 4:07
  10. 10 Small Change (Got Rained On With His Own .38) 5:07
  11. 11 I Can’t Wait to Get Off Work (and See My Baby on Montgomery Avenue) 3:17

Listen

Learn More

Wikipedia MusicBrainz Wikidata