Hold On - Mule Variations [257]

Waits returns to the vignette form (at least by Sam's estimation) in this sentimental track that (in Martin's estimation) doesn't manage to hit on all levels. The value of sentiment, the origins of songwriting and the "truthfulness" of expression in music writing, and the ever-present question of authenticity all feature in this third conversation with Chad Clark.

Music extracts used for illustrative/review purposes include:
Hold On, Mule Variations, Tom Waits (1999)

Fast Car, Tracy Chapman, Tracy Chapman (1988)

Instant Night, single, Beauty Pill (2020)

TOM WAITS - THE ACTING YEARS from Leigh Singer on Vimeo.

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Lowside of the Road - Mule Variations [256]

Chad Clark rejoins Sam & Martin to discuss the second track of Mule Variations... or is it just a retread of the first? We pick apart the synthesis of old/new Waits, alongside more modern music fusions. 

Music extracts used for illustrative/review purposes include:
Lowside of the Road, Mule Variations, Tom Waits (1999)

Old Town Road, 7 EP, Lil Was X (2019)

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Big In Japan - Mule Variations [255]

We return and begin again, this time with Chad Clark of Beauty Pill joining Martin and Sam for the first track of 1999’s Mule Variations. We discuss Chad’s perspective on music label relationships, the production choices and where the album sits at the end of the 20th century, plus how Waits relates to the energy of punk music. 

Music extracts used for illustrative/review purposes include:
Big In Japan, Mule Variations, Tom Waits (1999)

Making Plans For Bison, Pretty Little Baka Guy, Shonen Knife (1986)

Making Plans For Nigel, Drums and Wires, XTC (1979)

Do You Like Me, Red Medicine, Fugazi (1995)

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Mule Variations teaser [254a]

A couple of weeks out from the return of Song by Song to your podcatcher, here's a little preview of some of the conversations we've already recorded.

Music extracts used for illustrative/review purposes include:
Big In Japan, Mule Variations, Tom Waits (1999)

Chocolate Jesus, Mule Variations, Tom Waits (1999)

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