Dream of Life
Patti Smith · 1988
42 min · 8 tracks · post-punk · art rock · proto-punk
A vibrant blend of rock and poetry, where Smith's fervent vocals soar over anthemic instrumentation.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments anthemic sing-along choruses uplifting energy for gatherings
- Context
- By the release of 'Dream of Life' in 1988, Patti Smith was navigating a resurgence after a decade-long hiatus from major studio work following her acclaimed album 'Wave' in 1979. This album marked her return to the music scene with a renewed sense of purpose, showcasing her evolution as a poet and musician while exploring themes of activism and spirituality.
- If you like
- post-punk, art rock, proto-punk
Dream of Life is an album by Patti Smith, released in 1988. A vibrant blend of rock and poetry, where Smith's fervent vocals soar over anthemic instrumentation. The album features 'People Have the Power,' which became an anthem for social justice movements, resonating deeply during the late 1980s. While it received mixed critical reviews upon release, it has since been recognized for its influence on alternative rock and feminist music, solidifying Smith's status as a pioneering figure in both genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Dream of Life sound like?
A vibrant blend of rock and poetry, where Smith's fervent vocals soar over anthemic instrumentation. Rooted in post-punk and art rock.
What makes Dream of Life by Patti Smith notable?
The album features 'People Have the Power,' which became an anthem for social justice movements, resonating deeply during the late 1980s. While it received mixed critical reviews upon release, it has since been recognized for its influence on alternative rock and feminist music, solidifying Smith's status as a pioneering figure in both genres. By the release of 'Dream of Life' in 1988, Patti Smith was navigating a resurgence after a decade-long hiatus from major studio work following her acclaimed album 'Wave' in 1979. This album marked her return to the music scene with a renewed sense of purpose, showcasing her evolution as a poet and musician while exploring themes of activism and spirituality.
Who is Dream of Life for?
Dream of Life works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, anthemic sing-along choruses and uplifting energy for gatherings.
How many songs are on Dream of Life?
Dream of Life has 8 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 People Have the Power Standout 5:10
- 2 Going Under Standout 5:59
- 3 Up There Down There 4:51
- 4 Paths That Cross 4:20
- 5 Dream of Life Standout 4:40
- 6 Where Duty Calls 7:49
- 7 Looking for You (I Was) 4:07
- 8 The Jackson Song 5:24
Release Date
June 1, 1988
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
42 min 22 sec
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