Swordfishtrombones — 1983

A radical reinvention into clanking, experimental art-song that redefined his career. Bold and strange. A pivotal record. The second (or third) record that deepens the picture.

On vinyl: Many '80s records have had strong reissue programmes — check for a recently mastered version.

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More from Tom Waits — where to go next

If you have Swordfishtrombones, these are the Tom Waits records worth reaching for next.

1. 1
   Rain Dogs1985 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter
   Start here
2. 2
   Swordfishtrombones1983 · you're viewing this one
   Essential
3. 3
   Closing Time1973 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter
   Classic
4. 4
   Small Change1976 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter
   Classic
5. 5
   Blue Valentine1978 · Folk & Singer-Songwriter
   Classic

If you like Swordfishtrombones, try