Guitar Heaven
by Cool Cobb on 2/28/24Avalon Theatre - Grand JunctionIf you love guitar music, this is the best. A full one man band keeps you on the edge for hours. It doesn't get any better. -- Cool
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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.
If you love guitar music, this is the best. A full one man band keeps you on the edge for hours. It doesn't get any better. -- Cool
The sound was very well done. Lighting was good and dramatic, but a little too much directly into audience eyes. Too much fog. But Tommy was the best guitar player I have ever seen live and in person. Can't imagine ever seeing anyone better. Having no opening act was a real treat. How openers ever go to be a thing is beyond me. If I wanted to see someone on the way up, I would buy a ticket to see them. I got two full sets of nothing but the best!
I had heard Tommys music over the years and was always impressed by his playing. Seeing him live is a totally different experience. I couldn't believe how different his studio work was from his solo performance. Absolutely breath taking. You must see Tommy if you are a true fan of acoustic music. The closest to Tommy was seeing Adrian Legg in terms of innovative acoustic guitar playing. Next would be Jeff Beck with an electric guitar.
Probably one of the best concerts I've ever been to. His talent is amazing!
Tommy's opening act was ill, and he insisted on playing 2 sets. We got to hear so much more of the range of his talent. The ticketing experience was flawless and easy.
Tommy Emmanuel never disappoints. The show was absolutely incredible. Great seats in a terrific venue and easy electronic entry (thanks Ticketmaster). Loved every minute.
Awesome. Great show. Outstanding stage presence. Spins a good story.
What a fantastic evening. The kind you don’t want to come to an end. Wonderful music, great performer, loved the interaction with the audience. I’d attend again
I’ve been to so many concerts and enjoyed all of them… Rolling Stones, Eagles, Eric Clapton and a lot more but this Tommy Emmanuel concert was by far, the best! What a talent and what a performer. How Grand Junction, CO was able to land him I can only guess but I will be forever grateful. Thank you so much and please, keep these great performers coming to Colorado.
What a terrific one man show! He does it all and just loved his story as much as the beautiful guitar music! Best one man show ever!
Tommy is the best Fantastic guitar player Great story teller Would go see him again and again Hope he comes back to grand junction soon
Talent beyond my wildest expectations! Can't wait for next time. Holy cow!
I only went because my husband wanted to go. It was the best concert I've ever been to!
Tommy Emmanuel was awesome, as always. I will pay to see him anytime he is in Tulsa. The seating in the room in the Cox Event Center was very cramped. We were unable to sit back in our seats as we were spaced too close together. This became uncomfortable during a 2-hour show. That was the only negative.
Can’t even begin to describe a night with Tommy Emmanuel…everything I hoped it would be…entertaining and inspiring. The venue was less than stellar. I would not attend another event at this venue…hopefully next time Tommy comes to Tulsa it will be held in a venue that’s worthy of his talent and ability.
I think Tommy Emmanuel is the most GIFTED musician I’ve ever heard. His style is like no other! He seemed to really enjoy entertaining us. The first act was ill, so he did the whole show, and I’m really glad we heard two sets. I wish I had his energy!
I'm a big Tommy fan. His musicianship is second to none. We mostly enjoyed the show but felt it could have been even better. How? you say. Well, we expected him to play a few songs in his catalog that he didn't have time for. And why didn't he have time? He went into seemingly endless percussion solos and I'll argue that the time that was spent (wasted, IMHO) on those, he could have easily play 2 to 4 other expected songs. The question one must ask is: did I pay good money to see a great guitarist or someone who is a Ginger Baker wanna-be. A bit harsh perhaps but my expectations are that Tommy firstly plays what people expect him to play. BTW, I had no problem with the Christmas songs that he played. Lastly, I felt that the light show was a bit overdone. It gave the impression that he felt that his musicianship wasn't enough to entertain the audience and nothing could be further from the truth. I personally don't like the stage lights being constantly pointed towards the audience. I shouldn't have to close my eyes or squint to see what's happening on stage.
Really good show, it really was exciting during the fast songs and soothing during with slower. Exceptional guitar and big bass ,Tommy especially. Comfortable as always with easy in and out,and the loudness was perfect this time. A couple shows there were just a little too loud,,distortion. Every show at The Magnolia has been worth it. This one was only second to the Dennis DeYoung Grand Illusion Tour that may never be beat. Special for all time, partially the timing of the day before Covid lockdown ,that concert sucked for two years and we are making up for lost time .Rock On
It is beyond comprehension how Tommy Emmanuel can appear so joyfully relaxed and yet perform feats on his guitar that I have never seen duplicated. He often sounds like 3 people at once. He so deserved the multiple standing ovations received during his concert. As if his solo act wasn't enough, he teamed up with two other world class musicians, Jerry Douglas on Dobro and Daniel Kimbro on stand up bass to blow us all away... and create an unforgettable musical experience!
Tommy is master guitar virtuoso and decent singer. Slightly corny but with breathtaking speed and dexterity on the guitar. Beautiful songs, including Imagine and a joyful Beatle medley. Ended with a jam with opener Jerry Douglas ( who was also excellent). Then encored with American Song by Paul Simon. Recommended for anyone who loves guitar playing.