George Winston Montana: A Love Story

Personnel: George Winston (piano).

Recording information: Sheridan Opera House, Telluride, CO.

George Winston has traveled far and wide since his early days working with mentor John Fahey. MONTANA: A LOVE STORY is part portraiture and part exploration into the sonic possibilities of the piano. This biographical sketch takes the listener through various signposts of Winston's past. "High Plains Lullaby" is a delicate pastoral rumination, while "The Mountain Winds Call Your Name" features imaginative flourishes that create images of the plains and open country. In addition to Winston's own compositions, the record also includes interpretations of traditional songs and the works of Sam Cooke, Leadbelly, and (oddly enough) Frank Zappa. George Winston's familiar sound is apparent throughout MONTANA: A LOVE STORY, making long-time admirers feel right at home. In equal measure, Winston summons expressive asides and forays into dissonance that are challenging, but always riveting, as the repertoire of this self-described "rural folk pianist" expands.