Tommy Emmanuel is phenomenal!!!
by Pialamotem on 7/28/09Kimo Theatre - AlbuquerqueThis was by far the best event I have attended. Tommy was energetic and his high speed musical talents left everyone breathless. He is truly in a class all his own.
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Tommy Emmanuel in Concert
Anytime you talk to any of Tommy Emmanuel's fans, whether musicians or civilians, invariably they will speak of not one but two qualities that define his greatness. The first, predictably, is his extraordinary guitar playing. Considered by those in the know to be among this planet's greatest guitarists, his playing is simply miraculous, as it would take three musicians, or more, to do what Tommy does solo. Who else, for example, when playing "Day Tripper," can lay down the rhythm part, dig into the riff and sing the melody all at once on just one acoustic guitar?
Which brings us to the other aspect of his music always mentioned, and without which the first might not be as powerful or as infectiously appealing: the joy. Yes, joy. Because it's one thing to play these multi-dimensional arrangements flawlessly on an acoustic guitar. But to do it with that smile of the ages, that evidence of authentic, unbridled delight, is an irresistible invitation to feel his music as deeply as he does. "The joy, he says, "is there always because I'm chasing it through music. Seeing the surprise in peoples' eyes is worth living and working for... I can't help but play to the people with all my heart, which is overflowing with joy of being in that moment that I've worked all my life for. And here it is!"
Although his expression is instrumental, he comes to the guitar much more like a vocalist, positively singing melodies through the strings. He inhabits the tunes he performs, delivering every nuance and turn of phrase. His own songs are also illuminated always with lyrical melodies that go right to the heart, such as his beautiful ode to his daughter, "Angelina," or his great "story without words," "Lewis & Clark." That they resonate so deeply without words makes sense, as words only go so far. But music, coming from a genuine and joyful source, can go so much farther. Now with The Best of Tommy songs, he brings us a complete collection of his own songs, all rich with ripe melodicism and rendered with joy in real-time.
This was by far the best event I have attended. Tommy was energetic and his high speed musical talents left everyone breathless. He is truly in a class all his own.
Tommy emmanuel has got to be the best guitar player in current times...Great show...
Unbelievable performance by one of the best guitarists around and one that is also a great entertainer. Knows how to put on a show!
Wow - what a treat! I have never seen finger pick style acoustic players like this! You are in for a wonderful treat! Every minute is so breath taking it NEVER leaves you bored for one second! Totally Amazing show is the least I could say. Tommy's style is a blend of Bluegrass, Jazz, blues, and Folk, but blended so nicely together it just leaves you in such a nice mood! He also has a very important message for those in need of some words of inspiration. This show is recommended for ALL ages!!
A grand showman who obviously likes what he does and interacts with the audience in an exchange of energy.
What an amazing show. I just learned about Tommy a few months ago and was amazed at what I heard. Seeing him live in concert seals it - he is the most amazing guitarist I've ever seen. It's almost like a magic show - how can he be generating all those different sounds in parallel in a coordinated fashion? His level of motor skills is phenomenal. I hope he continues his prolific carrer and comes back to ABQ again.
Never expected to be so fully entertained. With the exception of the cramped seating at the KiMo, the night was fantastic. Not only is Tommy great on the guitar strings but he's also a wild percussionist. If you ever get the chance , don't miss seeing this great artist especially in a small venue.