What makes Reflections of a Golden Dream by Lonnie Liston Smith notable?

The album is significant for its innovative blend of genres, which contributed to the acid jazz movement that emerged in the late '80s. It received positive reviews from critics and has been influential among contemporary jazz artists seeking to explore similar spiritual and melodic territories. Released in 1976, Reflections of a Golden Dream was Lonnie Liston Smith's third album, following the acclaimed Astral Travelling. This record marked his continued evolution in the jazz fusion genre as he incorporated more spiritual and cosmic themes into his compositions.

How many songs are on Reflections of a Golden Dream?

Reflections of a Golden Dream has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

Reflections of a Golden Dream

Lonnie Liston Smith · 1976

39 min · 10 tracks · funk

Ethereal jazz fusion intertwined with funk grooves and soulful melodies, creating a serene musical landscape for introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Get Down Everybody (It's Time for World Peace) — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious groove and socially conscious message, immediately drawing listeners into Smith's vision of unity.
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Quiet Dawn — A tranquil piece characterized by soft melodies and lush instrumentation, it showcases Smith's ability to create a contemplative atmosphere.
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Meditations — This track exemplifies the spiritual essence of the album, featuring layered harmonies that evoke a sense of introspection and peace.
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Journey Into Space — With its cosmic soundscapes and rhythmic exploration, this track encapsulates the adventurous spirit of Smith's music while inviting listeners on a sonic journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends jazz fusion and funk with thoughtful arrangements, creating a unique sound that resonates over time.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a spoken word introduction that sets a thematic tone for the album, blending music and message.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections where the rhythm section locks into a groove while the keyboards and horns explore melodic variations.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 Get Down Everybody (It's Time for World Peace) 4:25
2 Quiet Dawn 3:33
3 Sunbeams 3:54
4 Meditations 4:24
5 Peace & Love 2:38
6 Beautiful Woman 6:05
7 Goddess of Love 4:24
8 Inner Beauty 2:18
9 Golden Dreams 4:52
10 Journey Into Space 2:31

What to play next

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Renaissance

1976

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Expansions

1975

Full Lonnie Liston Smith discography Artists like Lonnie Liston Smith

funk jazz fusion

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