World Cafe Words and Music Podcast The Culture Corner: The record that made Tricky a legend
May 19, 2025
John Morrison, a podcaster and the brains behind Culture Cypher Radio, joins Raina Duras to unpack the themes of Tricky's influential album, 'Angels With Dirty Faces.' They explore how Tricky's unique blend of blues and hip-hop reshaped the 90s music scene. Topics include the personal narratives in 'Carriage for Two,' the emotional complexities of 'Broken Homes,' and how Tricky's sound both reflects and challenges traditional genre boundaries. The conversation is a deep dive into the creative genius that defined a decade.
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Tricky's Unique Bristol Sound
- Tricky pioneered a unique sound blending hip-hop, dub reggae, and post-punk from Bristol's music scene.
- He stands apart from his contemporaries, shaping what came to be labeled trip-hop, though he dislikes that term.
Modern Blues and Parenthood
- "Carriage for Two" captures the modern blues spirit focusing on parenthood and emotional depth.
- The song is further imbued with sadness, especially in light of Tricky's daughter's later passing.
Blues Influence on the Album
- Tricky aimed to write the blues but infused it with samples, electronics, and dub reggae styles.
- His gravelly and unique vocal tone contrasts with female collaborators, evoking classic blues duets.