Tom Waits 

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• Tom Waits

  The unmistakably gruff voice and signature bowler hat make up the enigmatic persona of the musically divergent Tom Waits. Like a troubled character straight from one of his songs, Waits’ live performances bring to life an eccentric singer/songwriter with music ranging from blues and jazz, to rock and folk.

  A career that began with a simple acoustic guitar and a piano has evolved to include a full band laced with saxophones, trombones, accordions and banjos; taking the audience through a career spanning 4 decades. Still, the variety of Tom Waits’ catalogue is unified through his uniquely rough vocal style, a quality that becomes even stronger when he takes the stage.

  The crowd revels in this variety and atmosphere, equally as excited hearing the guitar-heavy, almost latin-infused Hoist That Rag from 2004’s Real Gone, as they are with the soulful and reflective Hold On from 1999’s Mule Variations.

  Each song interspersed with personal anecdotes that showcase the theatrical side of the sometimes-actor and Hollywood composer. Waits perfectly balances his performances both through his set lists and his interaction with the crowd, commanding attention where attention is due while entertaining grateful fans hanging off his every smoky word in between performances.

  His last full length tour in 2008, Glitter and Doom, was critically acclaimed by fans and critics alike, but the rarity of live performances since then means that seeing Tom Waits live has become an experience coveted by many fans. Now more than ever, if you get the chance to see Tom Waits live, take it.

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  by suzieblaszq

• A Tom Waits tour doesn't happen too often these days so when ,or should I say if he comes back 'round the bend, make sure you close in on your ticket. It will be tough and most likey expensive, but the reward is monumental! You will have a few hours forvever engrained in your memory of unadulterated musical bliss from one of music's most talented, and unusual artists. His famously gravely voice, at times, can seem to summon the dead--rumbling though songs about dying or strange family reunions. Other times it's as soft his debut album.

  His Glitter and Doom Tour in 2008 capped an already stellar year in live music I had seen. His band put on just as big as a performance as Mr. Waits himself, catching the audience by the seats of their pants and throwing them into one big dance party and song-a-long. I must say that it was one of my favorite nights on this planet. From the all around atmosphere of the crowd you could feel the electricity. You knew it was a special night. Friendly banter murmured throughout the venue before the lights were dimmed and insanity progressed.

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  by marc-lovely