Tom Waits, Closing Time, Limited 50th Anniversary Clear Double Vinyl, LP, Anti, 2023

Tom Waits, Closing Time, Limited 50th Anniversary Clear Double Vinyl, LP, Anti, 2023

50th Anniversary Limited Edition of Closing Time on double vinyl with half speed mastering from Abbey Road Studios.

“Closing Time” is the debut studio album by American singer-songwriter Tom Waits, released in 1973. It marked the beginning of Waits’ career and established his distinctive style that would later define his extensive discography. The album showcases a blend of folk, jazz, and blues, with Waits’ gravelly voice and poignant storytelling.

Recorded in Los Angeles, California, “Closing Time” was produced by Jerry Yester and arranged by former Lovin’ Spoonful member Artie Butler. The album was created with a modest budget and featured a stripped-down instrumentation, emphasizing Waits’ songwriting and his ability to create evocative narratives. The recording process took place over several months, allowing Waits to refine his songs and capture the intimate atmosphere present throughout the album.

Upon its release, “Closing Time” received critical acclaim and garnered attention for Waits’ unique approach to songwriting. The album showcased his versatility as a musician and songwriter, with tracks like “Ol’ ’55” and “Martha” standing out as fan favorites. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success at the time, it served as a solid foundation for Waits’ future career.

Over the years, “Closing Time” has been recognized as a seminal album in Waits’ discography. It has received retrospective praise and is often cited as one of his finest works. The album’s impact has been enduring, with its influence felt across various genres and among numerous artists.