The Light of Smiles

Saw Gary Wright in Concert, Dream Weaver Tour. I have just been reintroduce to these classics. Love the electronic synthesizers. May even like “The Right Place” Album better...

Gary Wright's Light of Smiles album is absolute ear candy. Have been searching for this for a long time and the music brings me back to a time and place that was different than any other in my life. I saw him perform this music live in Boston in the 70s and it was an unforgettable experience. Beautiful.

One of the greatest albums - listening to it brings back great memories & still know all the words

As most people know now, Gary Wright's music has roots deeper than just synth pop or new age. With this follow up to Dream Weaver, Gary added songs which were in development prior to the release of that album. Acoustic piano and some real string tracks upped the ante. The biggest plus was the inclusion of longer synth solos, on a white keytar no less. Those things are contemporary 30+ years later. Some of his lyrics were a bit limited in appeal, but his music has always been accessible to a wide audience. The arrangements on this album are more elaborate and well executed. While "I am the Sky" is more meditative as a lead in to "Whom Am I", one can't dismiss Gary's use of contrast between mellow Rhodes and funky Clavinet based songs. I think everone who likes this album has their favorite tune. Mine is "Are You Weepin'". The solos on that one were fabulous with the modulation and portamento.

I loved "Light of Smiles" because it was not like the previous release "Dream Weaver." Basically, you have to be willing to go for a ride on Gary's cosmic train to fully enjoy this record because it challenges you to do so in a gentle way. The music is well played and songs are solid but they are metaphysical in subject matter and, unless you are open to allowing in the more "airy" point of view, "Light of Smiles" is not for you. I loved it because it opened my mind in a slight way to other views of life and it was done with beautiful and peaceful music. Thankfully, this was not a repeat of "Dream Weaver" and, in my view, "Light of Smiles" stands the test of time being more than 30 years old. Great record.

I'm so psyched this album finally made it to itunes. I've been hanging on to my casette tape of this for years. Gary Wright was a ground breaker with an all keyboard band (excluding drums). This was an album that you listened to from start to finish, not just picking out the songs you liked. It's important to listen to the lyrics, and although I disagree theologically, they are perfectly suited to the music. Phantom writer is my favorite, you can hear the wonder and excitement as the singer looks up to see his name in the sky. I feel sorry for the kids of today, you don't often hear music so well crafted and interesting. A must have.

I'm psyched to know that someone else thought this album was good!! I loved it and so did everyone I played it for back in the day! Thanks Itunes!! Does anyone know if this is the same Gary Wright who is doing New Age music now? I sure wouldnt be surprised!!

I remember goin out and buying this one in '77. Disapointing after Dream Weaver. Only song I liked was "Are You Weepin' "

Wow! When you listen to this album you get the idea that Dream Weaver was most likely a sellout for Gary Wright. On this album he got to write what he wanted and boy are we hearing it on this one. A must for any collector of Classic 70's sounds from a writer that knew what he was doing.

This is one of most underrated albums Gary Wright has made. A terrific album and much stronger as a whole than Dream Weaver, another great album.