Tango
Patty Larkin · 1991
47 min · 13 tracks · folk rock
A vibrant fusion of folk rock and intricate melodies that showcases Larkin's poetic lyricism and intricate guitar work.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Tango — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its rhythmic intricacies and vivid imagery, showcasing Larkin's unique narrative style.
-
→
Used to Be — This track features poignant reflections on change and nostalgia, perfectly illustrating Larkin's ability to weave emotional depth into her songwriting.
-
→
Waiting for the Dawn — With its haunting melody and contemplative lyrics, this song exemplifies Larkin's skill in creating an atmospheric soundscape that resonates with listeners.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Larkin's intricate guitar work and poetic lyrics create a distinctive sound, though the album's cohesion is somewhat uneven.
What we noticed
- The album opens with the title track, which features a complex fingerpicking guitar pattern that sets a vibrant tone.
- Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the lyrical storytelling.
- The tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some maintaining a steady pace while others introduce syncopated rhythms and shifts in dynamics.
- 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
- vibrant storytelling through melodies
- reflective moments of quiet introspection
- short tracks for breaks
- poignant themes of love and
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, energetic music
- want heavy production
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1991, Tango marked Patty Larkin's fourth studio album, coming after her critically acclaimed record, Step into the Light. At this point in her career, Larkin was establishing herself as a prominent figure in the folk rock scene, blending personal storytelling with captivating musical arrangements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Lucy Kaplansky· Dar Williams· Mary Chapin Carpenter
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Tango 4:29
- 2 Used to Be 5:10
- 3 Upside Down 2:57
- 4 Time Was 4:08
- 5 Solo Flight 2:31
- 6 Dave's Holiday 2:43
- 7 Chained to These Lovin' Arms 3:53
- 8 Metal Drums 4:35
- 9 Letter From Vancouver 4:46
- 10 Deadlines and Dollar Signs 3:37
- 11 Waiting for the Dawn 4:10
- 12 Kathleen 3:28
- 13 Tango Reprise 0:35
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.