Rootless Cosmopolitans cover

Rootless Cosmopolitans

Marc Ribot · 1990

47 min · 12 tracks · experimental music · vocal music

A kaleidoscopic blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde experimentation that defies easy categorization.

Rootless Cosmopolitans is an album by Marc Ribot, released in 1990. A kaleidoscopic blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde experimentation that defies easy categorization. 'Rootless Cosmopolitans' received critical acclaim for its innovative approach, influencing a generation of musicians exploring the boundaries of genre. The album’s diverse soundscapes and Ribot's unique guitar techniques helped solidify his reputation within both the jazz and alternative rock communities, leading to collaborations with notable artists across various genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Rootless Cosmopolitans sound like?

A kaleidoscopic blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde experimentation that defies easy categorization. Rooted in experimental music and vocal music.

What makes Rootless Cosmopolitans by Marc Ribot notable?

'Rootless Cosmopolitans' received critical acclaim for its innovative approach, influencing a generation of musicians exploring the boundaries of genre. The album’s diverse soundscapes and Ribot's unique guitar techniques helped solidify his reputation within both the jazz and alternative rock communities, leading to collaborations with notable artists across various genres. By 1990, Marc Ribot was emerging as a prominent figure in the avant-garde music scene following his work on Tom Waits' 'Rain Dogs' in 1985. 'Rootless Cosmopolitans' represents his first solo album, showcasing his eclectic guitar style and compositional skills. This period marked a significant evolution in Ribot's artistry as he transitioned from sideman to a leading voice in experimental music.

How many songs are on Rootless Cosmopolitans?

Rootless Cosmopolitans has 12 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·47:03

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 I Should Care 1:20
  • 2 Shortly After Takeoff 4:13
  • 3 The Wind Cries Mary Standout 5:03
  • 4 Friendly Ghosts 5:22
  • 5 The Cocktail Party 5:03
  • 6 New Sad 3:03
  • 7 A Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Waste 1:17
  • 8 Beak Lunch Manifesto 6:33
  • 9 While My Guitar Gently Weeps 2:03
  • 10 Nature Abhors a Vacuum Cleaner 4:34
  • 11 Mood Indigo Standout 4:41
  • 12 Have a Nice Day Standout 3:45

Release Date

January 1, 1990

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

47 min 3 sec