What makes If You Really Want by Raul Midón notable?

This album received critical acclaim for its uplifting themes and intricate musical arrangements, further establishing Midón as an influential figure in the fusion of genres. It also showcased his growth as an artist, earning praise from outlets like NPR and Billboard for its optimistic outlook amidst challenging times. Released in early 2018, If You Really Want marked Raul Midón's return after a three-year hiatus following his album Don’t Hesitate. At this point in his career, Midón was solidifying his reputation as a unique voice in contemporary music, known for his virtuosic guitar skills and emotionally resonant songwriting.

Who is If You Really Want for?

If You Really Want works well if you're into uplifting messages for sunny days, intricate guitar work for detail and vibrant grooves for dancing.

How many songs are on If You Really Want?

If You Really Want has 10 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

If You Really Want

Raul Midón · 2018

45 min · 10 tracks · house music

A vibrant blend of soul, flamenco, and pop that celebrates love and optimism through intricate guitar work and heartfelt vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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If You Really Want — The title track encapsulates the album's core message of perseverance and hope, driven by a catchy melody and soulful delivery.
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Everyone Deserves A Second Chance — This track stands out with its poignant lyrics and gentle groove, conveying a powerful message about redemption and understanding.
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Sunshine (I Can Fly) — With its infectious energy and uplifting chorus, this song exemplifies Midón's ability to blend joy with deep emotional resonance.

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 showcases strong guitar work and vocals, creating a cohesive sound but lacks significant innovation.

What we noticed

The album features intricate guitar work that is prominent in nearly every track, often blending flamenco rhythms with soulful melodies.
Vocals are present on all tracks, with Midón's voice frequently harmonizing with the guitar lines, creating a rich texture.
Each song maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, contributing to an overall uplifting and optimistic feel throughout the record.

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

uplifting messages for sunny days
intricate guitar work for detail
vibrant grooves for dancing
emotionally resonant storytelling
for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid complex, layered sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in early 2018, If You Really Want marked Raul Midón's return after a three-year hiatus following his album Don’t Hesitate. At this point in his career, Midón was solidifying his reputation as a unique voice in contemporary music, known for his virtuosic guitar skills and emotionally resonant songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors: Leon Bridges· José González· Anderson .Paak