Golden Hearts Remembrance cover

Golden Hearts Remembrance

Wadada Leo Smith · 1997

69 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A meditative exploration of memory and tribute, blending intricate improvisation with deeply emotional compositions.

Why this album works

'Golden Hearts Remembrance' is significant for its deep engagement with themes of remembrance and tribute, particularly through its dedication to influential figures in music and Smith's life. The album reflects the broader trend in the late '90s jazz scene towards more introspective and conceptual works, earning critical acclaim for its innovative approach to improvisation and composition.
Best for
meditative explorations of memory gradual build to emotional climax immersive listening for reflection
Context
By 1997, Wadada Leo Smith was a prominent figure in avant-garde jazz, having established his unique voice through previous works like 'The Table of Silence' (1996). 'Golden Hearts Remembrance' followed his exploration of personal and cultural narratives, marking a continued evolution in his compositional style that integrates both structured and free improvisation.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Emmeya (For Alex Wallace) Standout 12:08
  • 2 Lotus Garden (For Amiya Dasgupta) Standout 12:15
  • 3 Tawhid (For Lamar) 9:50
  • 4 Golden Hearts Remembrance, A Nur Bakhshad (For Dr. Javad Nurbakhsh) 12:48
  • 5 Condor (Memorial For Dizzy Gillespie) Standout 14:42
  • 6 Mother: Sarah Brown-Smith-Wallace (1920-92) 7:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata