A Diamond in the Mind: Live 2011 cover

A Diamond in the Mind: Live 2011

Duran Duran · 2012

72 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant live showcase blending synth-pop euphoria with rock energy, capturing the essence of Duran Duran's enduring appeal.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Before the Rain Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Planet Earth — As one of their earliest hits, this track embodies the band's blend of catchy melodies and electronic elements that defined their sound in the '80s.
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    Ordinary World — This song showcases Duran Duran's emotional depth, highlighting their ability to craft poignant lyrics paired with atmospheric instrumentation.
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    Hungry Like the Wolf — A quintessential anthem from their catalog, its energetic performance captures the band's charismatic stage presence and timeless appeal.
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    (Reach Up for the) Sunrise — The song serves as a powerful testament to the band's revival in the early 2000s, bridging their historical roots with contemporary sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

56 /100
Foothills
Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The album captures a vibrant live performance but lacks a cohesive narrative across its varied track selection.

What we noticed

  • The performance includes extended instrumental sections, particularly in tracks like 'Wild Boys / Relax', allowing for improvisation and audience interaction.
  • Transitions between songs often include crowd engagement, with the band interacting with the audience to enhance the live experience.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant live performance energy
  • nostalgic sing-alongs with friends
  • dynamic pacing with emotional waves
  • celebratory atmosphere for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer studio recordings only
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Showcases Duran Duran's continued relevance and engagement with fans.
Themes
live concert energy· new wave revival
Career context
Released in 2012, A Diamond in the Mind: Live 2011 captures Duran Duran during a resurgence following their successful studio album All You Need Is Now. By this time, the band was celebrating over three decades since their debut, positioning themselves as veterans who had successfully adapted to changing musical landscapes while maintaining their signature style.
Stylistic neighbors
Depeche Mode· The Human League· Spandau Ballet

Tracklist

  • 1 Before the Rain Start here 4:18
  • 2 Planet Earth 5:22
  • 3 A View to a Kill 3:54
  • 4 All You Need Is Now 4:36
  • 5 Come Undone 4:45
  • 6 Blame the Machines 4:18
  • 7 The Reflex 5:14
  • 8 Girl Panic! 6:38
  • 9 Ordinary World 6:12
  • 10 Notorious 3:59
  • 11 Hungry Like the Wolf 4:06
  • 12 (Reach Up for the) Sunrise 5:34
  • 13 Wild Boys / Relax 5:56
  • 14 Rio 7:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata