What makes Close as You Get by Gary Moore notable?

'Close as You Get' received positive critical acclaim, particularly for its heartfelt compositions and Moore's exceptional guitar playing. The album marked a significant point in Moore's career as it solidified his status as a revered figure in the blues genre, influencing numerous artists who followed in his footsteps. When 'Close as You Get' was released in 2007, Gary Moore was in the later phase of his career, having transitioned from hard rock to a more blues-oriented sound. This album followed his previous works and reflected a matured perspective both musically and lyrically, emphasizing his deep roots in blues music.

Who is Close as You Get for?

Close as You Get works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, gradual builds and payoffs and late-night contemplative moods.

How many songs are on Close as You Get?

Close as You Get has 11 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Close as You Get

Gary Moore · 2007

51 min · 11 tracks · blues

A soulful blend of blues and rock that showcases raw emotion through intricate guitar work and heartfelt storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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If the Devil Made Whisky — This opening track sets the tone with its gritty vocals and powerful guitar riffs, encapsulating Moore's signature blues-rock style.
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Have You Heard — This track showcases Moore's ability to blend vulnerability with musical complexity, featuring poignant lyrics that reflect on loss and longing.
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I Had a Dream — The lengthy exploration of themes like aspiration and regret highlights Moore's storytelling prowess, underscored by emotive guitar solos.
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Sundown — Closing the album, this track employs a haunting melody and contemplative lyrics that linger with listeners long after it's finished.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album features strong guitar work and cohesive songwriting but doesn't significantly reshape its genre.

What we noticed

Several tracks feature call-and-response structures between vocals and guitar, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.

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 3/10

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

steady, consistent energy levels
gradual builds and payoffs
late-night contemplative moods
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and skill in Moore's later blues-oriented phase.
Career context: When 'Close as You Get' was released in 2007, Gary Moore was in the later phase of his career, having transitioned from hard rock to a more blues-oriented sound. This album followed his previous works and reflected a matured perspective both musically and lyrically, emphasizing his deep roots in blues music.
Stylistic neighbors: Joe Bonamassa· Peter Green· Eric Clapton