On the album, Ali is featured on drums and percussion, and is joined by saxophonist and flutist Carlos Ward, pianist Fred Simmons, and bassist Stafford James.

[1][2][3] Ali stated that the quartet, which stayed together for about three years, was "the first group that I got together after Trane died, after I went to Europe and got that whole thing out of my system.

"[4] The band eventually broke up because "it got to the point where were weren't working at all and everyone was such a good musician, and getting calls from other people.

"[4] The group's regular pianist was Don Pullen; however, he was unable to attend the recording session, and was replaced by Simmons.

"[1] The authors of The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings stated: "Ward's fiery and beautifully structured solo on 'As-Salaam-Alikum' is a perfect representation of what came to be known as Fire Music, with all of its spirituality as well as intensity.