Tom Waits

Rain Dogs

First released1985

Rain Dogs was recorded at two Los Angeles studios, the Evergreen Recording Studios and at a makeshift setup at the home of guitarist Marc Ribot, between 1984 and 1985. Tom Waits produced the album alongside engineers Barrie Sage and others, with the recording marked by unconventional techniques including the use of found percussion instruments, prepared pianos, and non-traditional sound sources to create the album's distinctive sonic textures. The production approach reflected Waits' departure from his earlier style, embracing a more experimental and avant-garde direction influenced by his growing interest in theatrical and world music elements. The album was released in 1985 and is considered a landmark work in alternative music, with its innovative production choices and instrumentation establishing new creative possibilities within popular music recording at the time.