Dreams (Grace Slick album)
Dreams is the second solo studio album by American singer Grace Slick, released in 1980 by RCA Records. Following her first solo effort, Manhole (1974), Dreams arrived after a period of significant transition for Slick, including her recovery from substance abuse issues and continued activity with the band Jefferson Starship.
The album features a more polished and commercially accessible sound compared to Manhole, embracing elements of pop and rock. While Manhole was largely experimental, Dreams showcases Slick's vocal abilities with a greater emphasis on song structure and melodic hooks.
The track listing consists of songs co-written by Slick with various collaborators, as well as covers. Notable tracks include "Seasons," a song about personal change and growth, and the title track, "Dreams," which reflects themes of hope and renewal. The album also includes covers of songs such as "I Want to Take You Higher" (originally by Sly and the Family Stone), performed in a markedly different style than the original.
Dreams charted on the Billboard 200, though it did not reach the commercial success of Jefferson Starship's albums. Critical reception was mixed, with some praising Slick's vocal performance and songwriting, while others found the album's production to be somewhat generic and lacking the raw edge of her earlier work. Despite this, Dreams remains a significant part of Grace Slick's discography, showcasing her versatility as a vocalist and songwriter during a pivotal period in her career.