About this album
Where they were
Trading Snakeoil for Wolftickets is Gary Jules' second studio album, following his 1998 debut, Greetings from the Side. At this point in his career, Jules was still establishing his identity in the music industry, transitioning from indie label releases to broader recognition. The album showcases a maturation of his sound and lyrical approach, setting the foundation for future success.
Why it matters
This album features the hauntingly popular cover of 'Mad World,' which gained significant traction after being featured in the film Donnie Darko. The song's resurgence on charts across multiple countries highlighted Jules' impact within alternative pop and rock scenes, leading to critical acclaim and increased visibility for his work.
Essential tracks
- "Mad World" — Jules' rendition transforms the original into a haunting reflection on despair, resonating deeply with listeners during its resurgence.
- "Pills" — This track encapsulates themes of disillusionment and societal pressures with its stark lyrics and minimalist arrangement, exemplifying Jules’ songwriting strength.
- "Umbilical Town" — Combining vivid imagery with a sense of longing, this song illustrates Jules' ability to evoke emotion through storytelling, making it a standout piece.
Release Date
November 15, 2001
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Broke Window 2:39
- 2 No Poetry 3:58
- 3 DTLA 3:35
- 4 Lucky 1:54
- 5 Something Else 4:24
- 6 Pills 2:22
- 7 Boat Song 4:05
- 8 Umbilical Town 3:55
- 9 The Princess of Hollywood Way 3:54
- 10 Patchwork G 3:30
- 11 Mad World 3:09
