Zolt had fought in the Korean war on the communist side, flying MIGs for the Bulgarian Air Force.

Keane was selected by the band for his laid-back, independent approach to recording, and also for an impressive resume of artists he had previously worked for.

[8] After touring with an expanded cast for the last three albums, the Cowboy Junkies felt a desire to pare back down to a foursome for their next work.

[9] The Junkies decided to focus on recording as a four-piece for this album, with Michael Timmins doing all the guitar work.

Keane's assistant David Henry also played cello who recorded solo tracks and with the string quartet.