Song by Song

As we dive into the first of the Big Time film-only tracks, Martin and Sam look at the imagery in the film as well as the looser feel of the lyrics in this later interpretation of the life of Frank O'...

7 Nov 20186min

As we reach the end of the album, Waits produces a great version of this quiet mournful tune, for once communicating the meaning and poetry of the lyrics in a clearer and more connected way. Song by S...

5 Nov 20186min

Sam and Martin head into the final tracks of the Big Time album struggling with the energy of this version of Gun Street Girl, as well as questioning the purpose of a narrative song that seems to be u...

31 Okt 20186min

Helen Zaltzman returns to take another listen to this track from Rain Dogs, now with 100% more terrifying childcatcher. More deprioritised lyrics here, and as Waits works more to enhance the sinister ...

29 Okt 20186min

Having already cited it as a strong reinterpretation several times throughout this season, Martin and Sam celebrate this party version of Waits's weird telephone call. Song by Song is Martin Zaltz Aus...

24 Okt 20186min

Returning from Heartattack & Vine, Vera Chok delivers her report for this live version of Ruby's arms, angry at the recapitulation of the disconnected dismissive attitude Waits has towards Ruby. Meanw...

22 Okt 20188min

Cub reporter Philippa Spanos returns to revisit another Swordfishtrombones track, the tender ballad for his wife Kathleen, now with added concluding harmony! Back at the SbS ranch, Martin and Sam thin...

17 Okt 20186min

Sam once again starts off an episode with an extended theory about the dramatic structure that lives between this song and the dumb story about conception-by-musket… if you'd like to skip this, please...

15 Okt 20186min