Don Ross
Don Ross · 1990
46 min · 10 tracks · new acoustic music
An intricate tapestry of fingerstyle guitar that blends folk melodies with jazz influences, evoking a serene, introspective atmosphere.
Top tracks — play these first
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Carolan's Quarrel with the Landlady / Michael and Juliana — This medley exemplifies Ross's ability to weave traditional melodies into complex arrangements, showcasing both his technical skill and storytelling through music.
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Zarzuela — The track features rich harmonic textures and rhythmic complexity, illustrating Ross's unique blend of folk and jazz influences that define the album's sound.
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Wall of Glass — This piece highlights Ross's lyrical touch on the guitar, using evocative phrasing that creates an emotional depth often sought after in instrumental music.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases complex guitar compositions and blends genres effectively, marking its significance in acoustic music.
What we noticed
- The album features intricate fingerstyle guitar work that often employs alternate tunings, creating a rich harmonic texture.
- Several tracks incorporate jazz-like chord progressions, which add complexity to the folk melodies.
- The pacing varies significantly, with some tracks maintaining a brisk tempo while others slow down to create reflective moments.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- intricate fingerstyle guitar melodies
- serene afternoon relaxation moments
- introspective listening for reflection
- gentle musical storytelling journeys
Maybe skip if you
- seek heavy, driving rhythms
- want high-energy party tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1990, this self-titled album marked Don Ross's emergence as a significant figure in the new acoustic music scene. Following his previous album 'Highway of Tears', this record showcased his evolving artistry and technical prowess, establishing him as a pioneering solo guitarist in Canada.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Andy McKee· Michael Hedges· Kaki King
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Groovy Sunflowers 3:35
- 2 Zarzuela 5:39
- 3 Thin Air 4:00
- 4 Bluefinger 3:17
- 5 Carolan's Quarrel with the Landlady / Michael and Juliana 6:33
- 6 Lucy Watusi 3:27
- 7 Wall of Glass 5:57
- 8 Enka 6:03
- 9 August on the Island 3:29
- 10 Little Giants 4:34
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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