Tom DiCillo’s single Waltz is a profound journey into the intricacies of love, offering listeners a mesmerizing glimpse into the sonic world of his latest album, Shot of Blue. Released on November 1, 2024, the 12-track album marks a significant chapter in the career of this renowned filmmaker-turned-musician. With its heartfelt lyrics, cinematic production, and haunting melodies, Waltz stands as both a testament to DiCillo’s storytelling prowess and a beacon of the album’s overarching themes.
At the heart of Waltz lies an intimate collaboration between DiCillo and James Fearnley, best known for his work with The Pogues. Fearnley’s accordion infuses the track with an old-world charm, while DiCillo’s soulful vocals and understated guitar work provide a modern edge. The result is a poignant ballad that evokes both nostalgia and immediacy. The accompanying music video, directed by DiCillo himself, heightens the song’s emotional resonance. Set in a moody, dimly lit nightclub, the video captures the performance of DiCillo and Fearnley, interspersed with scenes of a young couple lost in the quiet reverie of a private dance. This visual storytelling amplifies the song’s theme of fleeting, treasured moments.
While Waltz serves as a centerpiece, it’s just one of many gems in Shot of Blue. The album is a lush, immersive exploration of love’s multifaceted nature—its ecstasy, heartbreak, and quiet moments of clarity. The opening track, December Sun, sets the stage with a wistful, cinematic tone, while the title track, Shot of Blue, delves into longing with a raw, magnetic energy. Tracks like Premonition and Now Is The Time echo with urgency, urging listeners to confront the fleeting nature of time and connection.
DiCillo’s cinematic background is woven into every aspect of the album. Known for films like Johnny Suede and the Grammy-winning Doors documentary When You’re Strange, he brings a filmmaker’s eye for detail and a storyteller’s heart to his music. Each song is layered with atmospheric synths, surf-inspired guitar riffs, and intricate percussion, creating a soundscape that feels both expansive and deeply personal. Tracks such as Shadow Of A Bird and Stars encapsulate this duality, blending introspective lyrics with sweeping instrumental arrangements.
The production of Shot of Blue is as meticulous as its songwriting. DiCillo spent four years crafting the album, a process he describes as both challenging and liberating. “It was a big step to commit to working solely on music,” he explains. “The joy of music is instantaneous. You don’t need anyone’s money or permission. The expression of ideas is spontaneous, and I love that freedom.”
This sense of freedom is palpable throughout the album, especially in tracks like 2BWU and All The Lovers, which exude a playful yet reflective energy. Girl In A Million stands out as a tender ode to infatuation while Falling Into You captures the vulnerability of surrendering to love. The album closes with Stars, a contemplative piece that leaves listeners with a sense of wonder and quiet resolve.
Though Shot of Blue is a solo project, DiCillo enlisted an impressive roster of guest musicians to bring his vision to life. From guitarist Dean Parks (Steely Dan, Joe Cocker) to electric cellist Paul Cartwright (Mary J. Blige, Silversun Pickups), each collaborator adds depth and texture to the album. These contributions, combined with DiCillo’s own multi-instrumental talents, result in a richly layered sonic tapestry.
At the core of Shot of Blue, however, is DiCillo’s voice—both literally and figuratively. His vocals anchor each track, infusing the album with a sense of authenticity and emotional depth. His ability to translate deeply personal experiences into universal themes is what makes Waltz and the rest of the album so compelling.
In Waltz, and indeed throughout Shot of Blue, Tom DiCillo proves that his storytelling genius extends far beyond the silver screen. The album is a celebration of love in all its forms, a cinematic journey rendered in sound. For fans of DiCillo’s films or newcomers to his artistry, Shot of Blue is an invitation to explore the intersections of music, emotion, and narrative—a journey well worth taking.
