What makes A Turtle's Dream by Abbey Lincoln notable?

The album received positive critical reception, further cementing Lincoln's role as a vital figure in jazz. It featured reinterpretations of classic songs alongside original works, influencing a new generation of vocalists drawn to her blend of storytelling and musicality. The title track, 'A Turtle’s Dream,' has been noted for its introspective nature and has resonated with listeners seeking deeper lyrical content in jazz. By 1995, Abbey Lincoln had established herself as a significant voice in jazz, known for her socially conscious lyrics and unique vocal style. 'A Turtle's Dream' was her first studio album in nearly a decade, following the critically acclaimed 'Wholly Earth' from 1989. This release marked a return to the spotlight for Lincoln, demonstrating her enduring artistry in a changing musical landscape.

How many songs are on A Turtle's Dream?

A Turtle's Dream has 11 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

A Turtle's Dream

Abbey Lincoln · 1995

69 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A reflective blend of jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing Lincoln's emotive vocal delivery and poignant lyrical themes.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
A Turtle’s Dream — This title track encapsulates the album's essence, weaving together themes of aspiration and reflection with Lincoln's warm, intricate vocal delivery.
→
Throw It Away — With its infectious rhythm and profound lyrics, this track illustrates Lincoln's ability to transform simple ideas into powerful messages about letting go and renewal.
→
Nature Boy — Lincoln's rendition breathes new life into this classic, infusing it with emotional depth that highlights her interpretative skill and connection to the song's timeless themes.

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 balances original works and standards with strong vocal delivery, though it doesn't push boundaries in composition.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate sparse instrumental arrangements, allowing Lincoln's voice to be the focal point while maintaining a reflective mood.

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Throw It Away 5:44
2 A Turtle’s Dream 6:29
3 Down Here Below 8:49
4 Nature Boy 5:05
5 Avec le temps 5:40
6 Should’ve Been 7:58
7 My Love Is You 5:43
8 Storywise 4:21
9 Hey, Lordy Mama 7:13
10 Not to Worry 5:47
11 Being Me 6:17

What to play next

Listen next

Abbey Lincoln: Warner Jazz: Les Incontournables

1996

Go back to

Abbey Sings Billie

1993

Full Abbey Lincoln discography Artists like Abbey Lincoln

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata