Dare to Be Different
Tommy Emmanuel · 1990
48 min · 13 tracks · blues
Eclectic guitar virtuosity intertwines with vibrant melodies, blending blues, folk, and rock into a captivating instrumental journey.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
The Rise and Fall of Flingel Bunt Start here — This track showcases Emmanuel’s intricate fingerpicking style, combining technical prowess with melodic storytelling that sets the tone for the album.
-
→
Guitar concierto de Aranjuez — Emmanuel’s rendition of this classic piece highlights his classical influences and ability to blend genres, demonstrating both passion and precision.
-
→
Run a Good Race — The uplifting melody paired with rhythmic strumming reflects Emmanuel's optimistic spirit and lyrical depth, making it a standout among instrumentals.
-
→
Tequila Slammer — With its lively tempo and playful energy, this track exemplifies Emmanuel's skill at crafting engaging compositions that invite listeners to celebrate.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong guitar work and diverse influences but lacks cohesive flow in its track arrangement.
What we noticed
- Tracks like 'Guitar Concierto de Aranjuez' and 'Guitar Boogie' highlight Emmanuel's ability to blend classical elements with blues and folk influences.
- 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
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 melodic journey throughout
- intricate guitar work focus
- uplifting tunes for relaxation
- morning coffee soundtrack vibes
- playful energy for gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification tracks
- dislike for acoustic instrumentation
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album marked Emmanuel's breakthrough in the U.S. and established his reputation.
- Career context
- Released in 1990, Dare to Be Different was Tommy Emmanuel's first studio album after relocating to the United States. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from Australian talent to an internationally recognized guitarist, following his earlier work with the band Dragon and solo performances in Australia.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Leo Kottke· Chet Atkins· Michael Hedges
Tracklist
- 1 The Rise and Fall of Flingel Bunt Start here 3:48
- 2 Daybreak Again 4:16
- 3 Jacaranda 4:28
- 4 Countrywide 2:52
- 5 Games of Love and Loneliness 4:23
- 6 Run a Good Race 4:15
- 7 Guitar concierto de Aranjuez 3:58
- 8 Tequila Slammer 3:48
- 9 Hearts Grow Fonder 4:08
- 10 Blue Moon 2:25
- 11 Guitar Boogie 3:28
- 12 Encore: Up From Down Under 5:26
- 13 Raindance Teaser 0:50
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.