Is That You? cover

Is That You?

Bill Frisell · 1990

51 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A tapestry of whimsical melodies and intricate harmonies woven through Frisell's signature guitar tones and explorative arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    No Man’s Land Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Is That You? — The title track features a haunting melody that encapsulates the album's introspective spirit while showcasing Frisell’s distinctive guitar style.
  • →
    Chain of Fools — This track creatively reinterprets the classic song with a fresh jazz lens, highlighting Frisell's ability to blend genres while maintaining emotional depth.
  • →
    The Days of Wine and Roses — Frisell's interpretation transforms this standard into an atmospheric piece, emphasizing his knack for creating rich sonic landscapes through minimalist arrangements.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic exploration with resolution
  • melodic tapestry for deep listening
  • wave-like pacing for relaxation
  • intricate guitar lines to savor

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album showcased Frisell's growing prominence in the jazz scene post his acclaimed earlier work.
Themes
whimsical melodies· atmospheric reinterpretation· explorative guitar landscapes
Career context
Released in 1990, Is That You? marked Bill Frisell's third studio album, showcasing his growing prominence in the jazz scene after his breakthrough with the critically acclaimed album, Lookout for Hope. At this point, Frisell was establishing his unique voice as a guitarist blending elements of jazz with Americana influences, setting the stage for his future works.
Stylistic neighbors
Pat Metheny· John Abercrombie· Julian Lage

Tracklist

  • 1 No Man’s Land Start here 6:41
  • 2 Someone in My Backyard 2:51
  • 3 Rag 4:07
  • 4 Is That You? 6:53
  • 5 The Way Home 6:01
  • 6 Twenty Years 2:46
  • 7 Chain of Fools 3:31
  • 8 Hello Nellie 4:11
  • 9 The Days of Wine and Roses 3:41
  • 10 Yuba City 5:44
  • 11 Half a Million 4:05
  • 12 Hope and Fear 1:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata