What makes Still Dreaming by Brian Blade notable?

Still Dreaming received critical acclaim, highlighted by its unique fusion of styles that appealed to both jazz aficionados and broader audiences. The album's innovative approach led to significant recognition within the jazz community, contributing to conversations about genre fluidity in contemporary music. Upon the release of Still Dreaming in 2018, Brian Blade was already an established drummer and bandleader known for his versatility across genres. This album marked a continuation of his exploration into the intersection of jazz and rock, following the acclaimed album 'Landmarks' released in 2016, showcasing his growth as both a composer and performer.

Who is Still Dreaming for?

Still Dreaming works well if you're into introspective rhythms for deep thinking, contemplative moments of reflection and soothing melodies for quiet evenings.

How many songs are on Still Dreaming?

Still Dreaming has 8 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Still Dreaming

Brian Blade · 2018

40 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A meditative blend of jazz improvisation and rock sensibilities, weaving intricate rhythms with reflective melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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New Year — This opening track establishes the album's contemplative tone with its layered rhythms and striking melodies, setting the stage for the journey ahead.
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Haze and Aspirations — The track features intricate interplay between instruments, exemplifying Blade's ability to create a sonic landscape that is both expansive and intimate.
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Blues for Charlie — An homage to Charlie Haden, this piece showcases emotional depth through its haunting melodies and nuanced improvisation, capturing the essence of loss and tribute.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends jazz improvisation with rock elements, creating a meditative yet engaging sound.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered instrumentation, with guitar and piano often intertwining in melodic dialogue.
Each track maintains a slow to mid-tempo pace, creating a reflective atmosphere throughout the record.
Improvisational sections are prominent, allowing musicians to explore themes rather than adhering strictly to written compositions.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective rhythms for deep thinking
contemplative moments of reflection
soothing melodies for quiet evenings
nuanced improvisation for attentive listening

Maybe skip if you

seekers of upbeat tempos
prefer straightforward, catchy songs

Where this album fits

Career context: Upon the release of Still Dreaming in 2018, Brian Blade was already an established drummer and bandleader known for his versatility across genres. This album marked a continuation of his exploration into the intersection of jazz and rock, following the acclaimed album 'Landmarks' released in 2016, showcasing his growth as both a composer and performer.
Stylistic neighbors: Brian Eno· Bill Frisell· Charles Lloyd