Bill Frisell: I Heard It Through the Grapevine

Track

I Heard It Through the Grapevine

Artist

Bill Frisell (guitar, loops)

CD

East/West (Nonesuch 79863)

Buy Track

Musicians:

Bill Frisell (guitar, loops),

Viktor Krauss (bass), Kenny Wolleson (drums)

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Composed by Barrett Strong & Norman Whitfield

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Recorded: Oakland, CA, May 8-11, 2003

Albumcoverbillfrisell-eastwest

Rating: 90/100 (learn more)

Though he is known for the eclecticism of his music and the varying instrumentation of his many groups, guitarist Bill Frisell's talent is truly best displayed in a trio setting. Bassist Viktor Krauss and drummer Kenny Wolleson respond instinctively to every quirk in the guitarist's idiosyncratic style. Frisell's take on "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" is far from Marvin Gaye's Motown hit as the trio opts for a slow, blues-heavy groove that leaves ample space for the guitarist's sonic wizardry. His sparse rendering of the melody is filled out by finger-picked arpeggios and open-stringed, plucked chords, and his use of pedals—looping, delays, reverse attacks—is central to his sound as always. Frisell leaves his distinct fingerprints on every tune he touches, and through it all still finds a way to remain downhome and soulful.

Reviewer: Matt Leskovic

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