The Early Years Volume One, released in 1991, is a compilation of Tom Waits’ demo recordings from 1971, before his debut album Closing Time. These tracks capture a young Waits still shaping his voice and style, leaning heavily on folk, jazz, and singer-songwriter traditions. Songs like Ice Cream Man, Virginia Avenue, and Midnight Lullaby reveal his gift for storytelling and melody, even in their raw, unpolished form.

What makes this collection so compelling is its intimacy—it offers a rare glimpse into the formative stage of an artist who would go on to become one of America’s most distinctive songwriters. The arrangements are simple, often just guitar or piano accompanying Waits’ already evocative voice, allowing the songwriting to shine. The Early Years Volume One is less about polish and more about potential, a fascinating listen for fans who want to trace the roots of Waits’ singular career.