Heart's Reflections
Wadada Leo Smith · 2011
113 min · 14 tracks · jazz
A meditative blend of free jazz improvisation and evocative soundscapes that honors the legacies of cultural icons.
Why this album works
'Heart's Reflections' received critical acclaim for its ambitious scale and emotional depth, contributing to Smith’s recognition within the contemporary jazz scene. The album showcases his unique compositional style and was lauded in publications like 'The New York Times', highlighting its influence in avant-garde circles and among listeners seeking profound musical experiences.
- Best for
- meditative soundscapes for reflection dynamic peaks and valleys long-form journeys of exploration
- Context
- By 2011, Wadada Leo Smith was an established figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative approach to sound and composition. 'Heart's Reflections' came after his celebrated album 'Sacred Ceremonies' (2009) and continued his exploration of deep spiritual themes through music. This release further solidified his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist within the jazz genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Prince· Diana Ross· Bob Dylan· Christina Aguilera· Barbra Streisand· Chicago· Aretha Franklin· Madonna
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Don Cherry's Electric Sonic Garden (For Don Cherry) Standout 20:50
- 2 The Dhikr Of Radiant Hearts, Part I 2:33
- 3 The Dhikr Of Radiant Hearts, Part II 6:27
- 4 The Majestic Way 9:13
- 5 The Shaykh, As Far As Humaythira 7:29
- 6 Spiritual Wayfarers 6:11
- 7 Certainty 5:24
- 8 Ritual Purity And Love, Part I 3:25
- 9 Ritual Purity And Love, Part II 2:32
Disc 2
- 1 Silsila 5:35
- 2 The Well: From Bitter To Fresh Sweet Water, Part I 6:13
- 3 The Well: From Bitter To Fresh Sweet Water, Part II 5:02
- 4 Toni Morrison: The Black Hole (Sagittarius A*), Conscience And Epic Memory (For Toni Morrison) Standout 10:35
- 5 Leroy Jenkins's Air Steps (For Leroy Jenkins) Standout 22:29
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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