From the Redwoods to the Rockies by Russ (Piano) Freeman (CD, Sep-1998, Windham Hill Jazz USA)

Chaquico at this time was the new darling of new age guitar, and Russ Freeman, of course, was the guitarist/leader of The Rippingtons. Together, they produce a nice CD, but certainly not a great CD. Both play well, and there are some really nice moments, but overall, this CD is not as good as the CDs from each as individuals. Freeman is obviously holding back a bit on his jazz chops, and Chaquico can't seem to decide whether he wants to stay with his rock roots or branch out into the soft jazz of Freeman. It's a fun listen, though, and the final cut, a purely acoustic track, is really nice, but overall, you would be better off to buy Chaquico's CDs and The Rippingtons.