WERS 88.9 fm - Album Review: Tom Waits - Glitter And Doom Live

December 30^th, 2009           

It comes as no surprise that Tom Waits' Glitter and Doom Live begins with his trademark eerie, guttural yelps on opening track, "Lucinda-Ain't Goin Down." Waits is perceived by many as a rather creepy lyricists and performer, but creepiness aside, the man is talented. This album is proof.

He's done nothing new on Glitter and Doom Live, sticking to his own style—one that's yet to be replicated. His voice is one that cannot be matched and any attempt would prove futile. Waits sounds as though he smokes ten packs a day and makes it work to his advantage.

Each track on the album has that Tom Waits drunken instrumentation to it. If you can swallow Waits, Glitter and Doom Live is a pristine depiction of the man.

Waits utilizes unorthodox instruments to create his unorthodox music. Through a an array of unique instruments, alongside piano and upright bass, Waits creates an ethereal circus vibe in each track.  

If you're set on hearing something shocking and new from Waits, Glitter and Doom Live is not the album for you. He sticks to his roots and Waits fans will be alright with that.

-By Jacquelin Voegtlin