What makes Soul Intent by Pieces of a Dream notable?

Soul Intent reaffirmed Pieces of a Dream's position within the smooth jazz genre, receiving positive reviews from critics and fans alike. It contributed to the resurgence of interest in R&B-inflected jazz during the late 2000s, influencing younger artists and solidifying the band's legacy as pioneers in this niche. Released in 2009, Soul Intent marks the eighth studio album for Pieces of a Dream, who were already established in the contemporary jazz and R&B scenes. This album came after their 2005 release, which saw them embracing a more mature sound while maintaining their signature groove. The band had been refining their style since their inception in the early 1980s, striving to balance commercial appeal with musical innovation.

How many songs are on Soul Intent?

Soul Intent has 11 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Soul Intent

Pieces of a Dream · 2009

54 min · 11 tracks · rhythm and blues

A smooth blend of jazz-infused R&B with intricate rhythms and soulful melodies that invite listeners to unwind.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Give U My Heart — This track exemplifies the album’s smooth grooves and heartfelt lyrics, showcasing the duo's ability to blend romance with rhythmic sophistication.
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Soul Intent — The title track merges introspective lyrics with a captivating melody, encapsulating the thematic depth that permeates the entire album.
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Things Are Looking Up — With its uplifting message and infectious rhythm, this song stands out as an anthem of positivity and resilience amidst life's challenges.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features solid musicianship and smooth melodies but lacks standout compositions that elevate it beyond its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm that contrasts with the previous songs.
Several tracks incorporate intricate instrumental solos, particularly from the saxophone and keyboard, which showcase the musicians' technical skills.
The album closes with a ballad that gradually builds in intensity, creating a sense of resolution as it fades out.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Stand Up

The moment shifts from personal reflection to a collective call for action, signaling unity and determination against adversity.

This transition moves from individual experience to broader social commentary, making it a pivotal point in the narrative of empowerment throughout the album.

Tracklist

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

1 Sway On 4:11
2 Vision Accomplished 4:19
3 Give U My Heart 4:38
4 APB 4:26
5 Hindsight 6:34
6 Soul Intent 4:22
7 Step On It 4:30
8 Things Are Looking Up 6:15
9 D Fuse The Situation 6:24
10 Stand Up 4:21
11 Anywhere You Are 4:55

What to play next

Go back to

Makes You Wanna

1988

Full Pieces of a Dream discography Artists like Pieces of a Dream

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata