Illusions (George Duke album)

Illusions is a studio album by American jazz keyboardist and composer George Duke, released in 1976 on the MPS Records label. It represents a significant shift in Duke's musical direction, incorporating more elements of funk and fusion alongside his established jazz sensibilities.

The album features a core band comprised of Leon "Ndugu" Chancler on drums, Byron Miller on bass, and Airto Moreira on percussion, along with Duke handling keyboards, synthesizers, and vocals. Illusions is characterized by its intricate arrangements, complex rhythms, and the prominent use of synthesizers, showcasing Duke's expanding sonic palette. It builds upon the foundations he laid with earlier albums, pushing further into experimentation and groove-oriented compositions.

Key tracks on the album include "The Kenyan," a vibrant fusion piece, and "Same Old Story," which highlights Duke's vocal capabilities. While Illusions is not as widely known as some of Duke's later, more commercially successful albums, it is considered a crucial work in his discography, demonstrating his evolving musicianship and willingness to explore new musical territories. It foreshadows the funk-infused jazz fusion style that would define much of his output in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The album is regarded by many jazz and funk enthusiasts as a hidden gem in George Duke's extensive catalog.