About this album

Sound: "A rich tapestry of jazz standards seamlessly woven with Cécile McLorin Salvant's emotive vocal prowess."

Where they were

By the time 'Dreams and Daggers' was released in 2017, Cécile McLorin Salvant had already gained significant acclaim, winning the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album for her previous work, 'For One to Love.' This album showcases her artistic evolution as she delves deeper into jazz traditions while also exploring personal narratives, solidifying her position as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

Why it matters

'Dreams and Daggers' received widespread critical acclaim, including a nomination for the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Its unique blend of classic jazz interpretations and original compositions has influenced emerging jazz artists and has been pivotal in revitalizing interest in vocal jazz across diverse audiences.

Essential tracks

  • "Mad About the Boy" — This track stands out for its playful yet melancholic interpretation, showcasing Salvant's ability to convey deep emotion through phrasing and dynamics.
  • "My Man’s Gone Now" — Salvant’s rendition captures the haunting sorrow of loss with haunting vocal nuances that elevate this classic to new emotional heights.
  • "Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues" — This track is essential for its bold declaration of female empowerment, underscoring Salvant's knack for merging historical context with modern relevance.

Release Date

September 29, 2017

Artist Origin

France

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 And Yet 1:06
  2. 2 Devil May Care 6:56
  3. 3 Mad About the Boy 6:52
  4. 4 Sam Jones’ Blues 2:59
  5. 5 More 3:33
  6. 6 Never Will I Marry 4:02
  7. 7 Somehow I Never Could Believe 9:55
  8. 8 If a Girl Isn’t Pretty 2:55
  9. 9 Red Instead 0:34
  10. 10 Runnin’ Wild 1:39
  11. 11 The Best Thing for You (Would Be Me) 7:08

Disc 2

  1. 1 You’re My Thrill 4:34
  2. 2 I Didn’t Know What Time It Was 6:29
  3. 3 Tell Me What They’re Saying Can’t Be True 5:29
  4. 4 Nothing Like You 3:49
  5. 5 You’ve Got to Give Me Some 6:11
  6. 6 The Worm 1:03
  7. 7 My Man’s Gone Now 6:27
  8. 8 Let’s Face the Music and Dance 6:55
  9. 9 Si J’étais Blanche 5:14
  10. 10 Fascination 1:27
  11. 11 Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues 6:50
  12. 12 You’re Getting to Be a Habit With Me 9:53