What makes Against the Grain by Acoustic Alchemy notable?

Against the Grain solidified Acoustic Alchemy's reputation within the smooth jazz scene, reaching number 14 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart. Its polished sound and engaging compositions helped to further popularize the genre during the peak of its commercial success in the mid-90s. Released in 1994, Against the Grain was Acoustic Alchemy's fifth studio album, following their successful 1990 release, Natural Elements. At this point, they were establishing themselves as a prominent force in the smooth jazz genre, showcasing their signature blend of acoustic guitar work and jazz influences.

How many songs are on Against the Grain?

Against the Grain has 10 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Against the Grain

Acoustic Alchemy · 1994

53 min · 10 tracks · jazz fusion

A vibrant blend of smooth jazz and intricate guitar melodies that invites listeners into a sun-soaked soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Against the Grain — The opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its intricate guitar interplay and a lively rhythm that encapsulates the duo's musical synergy.
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Lazeez — This track stands out for its infectious groove and playful melody, showcasing how Acoustic Alchemy blends traditional jazz elements with contemporary flair.
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A Different Kind of Freedom — A reflective piece that highlights the duo's ability to convey emotion through melody, combining lush harmonies with a sense of longing.
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Nouveau Tango — This composition captures a rhythmic complexity that draws from tango influences, demonstrating their versatility and appeal across different genres.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases skilled guitar work and varied rhythms, solidifying its place in smooth jazz but lacks broader impact.

What we noticed

The album features intricate guitar melodies that are often layered, creating a rich texture throughout the tracks.
The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the latter half introduces more dynamic shifts in tempo and mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Against the Grain 5:40
2 Lazeez 4:56
3 A Different Kind of Freedom 6:22
4 Lady Lynda 5:24
5 Road Dogs 4:20
6 Shoot the Loop 5:22
7 Across the Golden Gate 5:14
8 Papillon 6:41
9 Silent Partner 4:32
10 Nouveau Tango 5:05

What to play next

Listen next

Arcanum

1996

Go back to

The New Edge

1993

Full Acoustic Alchemy discography Artists like Acoustic Alchemy

jazz fusion jazz pop smooth jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata