New True Illusion cover

Released 50 years ago

New True Illusion

Joanne Brackeen · 1976

42 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity that showcases Brackeen's virtuosic piano skills.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Search for Peace — This track exemplifies Brackeen's ability to blend introspective melodies with intricate harmonies, creating a serene yet complex atmosphere that resonates throughout the album.
  • →
    New True Illusion — The title track showcases Brackeen's unique compositional style, incorporating unexpected shifts in tempo and dynamics that reflect her innovative approach to jazz.
  • →
    Solar — With its expansive length, this piece allows Brackeen to explore themes of light and energy through improvisation, highlighting her technical prowess and emotive expression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Brackeen's complex compositions and virtuosic execution mark her as a significant figure in jazz fusion.

What we noticed

  • Each track showcases extended improvisation sections, allowing Brackeen's virtuosic skills to take center stage.
  • The first three tracks maintain a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the final three introduce more varied tempos and dynamics.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intricate rhythms that invite focus
  • emotional depth for reflective moments
  • extended tracks for deep engagement
  • vibrant soundscapes for exploration

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking quick, instant gratification
  • prefer short, standalone pieces

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1976, Joanne Brackeen was establishing her presence in the jazz scene as a significant figure in jazz fusion. 'New True Illusion' followed her debut album 'Tears of Joy' from 1973, marking her continued exploration of complex compositions and innovative arrangements that would define her career trajectory.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· McCoy Tyner

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Steps: What Was 9:04
  • 2 Search for Peace 6:05
  • 3 New True Illusion 8:50
  • 4 My Romance 7:50
  • 5 Freedent 1:37
  • 6 Solar 9:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata