Although this lacks the varied style of Swordfishtrombones, as an album it is a satisfying experience.
The
fact that it is a compilation may put you off but don't let it. The
sheer nature of the period from which these songs were taken means that
it has a good album flow and at no point does it seem like a
compilation. Waits croaks and gargles his way through some fine tracks
in the way that only he can, with some excellent instrumental work to
accompany him.
There are a few stand out tracks - Tom Trauberts Blues
and Grapefruit Moon being good examples, but theres nothing that feels
like filler material. Lets face it, with the rate that Tom Waits
produces albums, buying compilations is probably a good idea from a
purely fiscal sense, and with this album you wont get the feeling that
your missing out on more (although I would recommend Heart Of Saturday
Night). Overall a fantastic collection from a gret period for the man