"The blues have always been socio-political," says Ford. In the opening song "Lateral Climb," he addresses the 9 to 5 grind, credit card debt, and the political frustrations we all experience. "Peace on My Mind" was inspired by Willie Dixon's "It Don't Make Sense, You Can't Make Peace," which Ford describes as an anti-war song without being too preachy. "If you're pointing the finger, no one wants to hear it. It's a portrait rather than a sermon. The truths I describe are self evident."

Widely recognized by peers and critics alike for his mastery of the guitar, Robben's impressive résumé includes performances with such heavyweights as Jimmy Witherspoon, Joni Mitchell, George Harrison and Miles Davis. Ford was named one of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of the 20th Century" by Musician magazine, and his superlative instrumentalism is particularly evident on this new release. His guitar solos have never been more expressive or exciting and the musical settings (largely a product of live studio performances) are full of surprises, drama and humor.