Bill Frisell has been one of the most unique jazz-based guitarists of the 1980s and '90s, a very eclectic player who can switch styles and sounds on a moment's notice, yet is always quite distinctive. On this atmospheric and picturesque set, Frisell uses his regular quartet of the time (cellist Hank Roberts, bassist Kermit Driscoll and drummer Joey Baron) on some selections, but also interacts with fellow guitarist Arto Lindsay, keyboardist Peter Scherer and, on "Some Song and Dance," baritonist Doug Wieselman and both Julius Hemphill and Billy Drewes on altos. A special highlight is the episodic "Hard Plains Drifter," which has this as a subtitle: "As I take my last breath and the noose grows tight, the incredible events of the past three days flash before my eyes." A very intriguing and colorful set of eccentric music. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
Julius Hemphill (Sax (Alto)), Hank Roberts (Cello), Hank Roberts (Vocals), Arto Lindsay (Arranger), Arto Lindsay (Guitar (Electric)), Arto Lindsay (Vocals), Arto Lindsay (Producer), Joey Baron (Percussion), Joey Baron (Drums), Joey Baron (Electronics), Paul Angelli (Assistant Engineer), Cyro Baptista (Shaker), Greg Calbi (Mastering), Patrick Dillett (Assistant Engineer), Kermit Driscoll (Bass (Electric)), James Farber (Engineer), Bill Frisell (Guitar (Acoustic)), Bill Frisell (Banjo), Bill Frisell (Arranger), Bill Frisell (Guitar (Electric)), Bill Frisell (Main Performer), Oz Fritz (Assistant Engineer), Robert Hurwitz (Executive Producer), Mike McMackin (Assistant Engineer), Roger Moutenot (Engineer), Roger Moutenot (Mixing), Peter Scherer (Arranger), Peter Scherer (Keyboards), Peter Scherer (Programming), Peter Scherer (Producer), Peter Scherer (Drum Programming), Peter Scherer (Keyboard Bass), Lee Townsend (Producer), Doug Wieselman (Sax (Baritone)), John Zorn (Arranger), John Zorn (Producer), Jason Baker (Assistant Engineer), Laura Levine (Photography), Billy Drewes (Sax (Alto)), Gary Salomon (Assistant Engineer)
