Go West: Music for the Films of Buster Keaton cover

Go West: Music for the Films of Buster Keaton

Bill Frisell · 1995

69 min · 24 tracks · post-bop · progressive jazz

A whimsical blend of jazz and Americana, evoking the silent film era with playful instrumentation.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its unique approach to film scoring, serving as a tribute to Buster Keaton's silent films while gaining recognition within the jazz community. It highlights Frisell's innovative compositions and arrangements, which contributed to a renewed interest in film music among jazz artists. The album received positive reviews and showcased how traditional cinematic themes could be reinterpreted through a modern jazz lens.
Career context
In 1995, Bill Frisell was well-established in the jazz scene, known for his inventive guitar work and genre-blending style. 'Go West' followed his critically acclaimed album 'Have a Little Faith', further showcasing his ability to fuse traditional American sounds with contemporary jazz sensibilities. This album marked Frisell's deepening engagement with film music, illustrating his versatility as an artist.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Down on Luck 4:11
  • 2 Box Car 0:56
  • 3 Busy Street Scene 0:43
  • 4 Go West 1:01
  • 5 Train Standout 3:06
  • 6 Brown Eyes Standout 4:20
  • 7 Saddle Up! 2:40
  • 8 First Aid 0:51
  • 9 Bullfight 2:25
  • 10 Wolves 3:14
  • 11 New Day 5:27
  • 12 Branded 1:19
  • 13 Eats 1:13
  • 14 Splinter Scene 2:33
  • 15 Cattle Drive Standout 4:36
  • 16 Card Game 5:03
  • 17 Ambush 4:01
  • 18 Passing Through Pasadena 1:51
  • 19 To the Streets 3:11
  • 20 Tap Dancer and Confusion 6:41
  • 21 Devil Suit 2:08
  • 22 Cops and Firemen 3:57
  • 23 That a Boy! 1:31
  • 24 I Want Her 2:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata