What makes Power of Soul by Idris Muhammad notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of jazz and soul elements, particularly highlighted by the track Power of Soul which became a staple in jazz-funk circles. Its influence can be seen in later works by artists who sought to merge genre boundaries, marking Muhammad as a significant figure in the evolution of contemporary jazz music. Power of Soul was released during Idris Muhammad's transition to a solo artist, following his tenure with the band The Crusaders. By 1974, he had established himself as a notable figure in jazz and funk, making this album an important step in solidifying his individual style and artistic identity.

How many songs are on Power of Soul?

Power of Soul has 4 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Power of Soul

Idris Muhammad · 1974

34 min · 4 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz rhythms and soulful melodies that embodies the spirit of the 1970s musical landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Power of Soul — This title track encapsulates the album's essence with its infectious groove and powerful vocal delivery, serving as a rallying cry for self-empowerment.
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Piece of Mind — With its intricate arrangements and emotional depth, this track showcases Muhammad's ability to blend complex jazz structures with soulful expression.
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Loran's Dance — This expansive piece highlights Muhammad's drumming prowess while incorporating free-flowing improvisation that reflects the creative spirit of the era.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends jazz and soul effectively, with strong musicianship but some unevenness in flow.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a prominent horn section, establishing a vibrant and energetic mood.
Each track showcases extended instrumental solos, allowing musicians to explore themes and motifs in depth.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 Power of Soul 7:08
2 Piece of Mind 9:25
3 The Saddest Thing 7:10
4 Loran's Dance 10:40

What to play next

Listen next

House of the Rising Sun

1976

Go back to

Peace and Rhythm

1971

Full Idris Muhammad discography Artists like Idris Muhammad

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata