Friends of Dean Martinez are a band from Tucson, Arizona, whose music reflects the sexy languor of the American Southwest.

They play sad, sweet, instrumental desert music, with Bill's steel guitar acting as both lead guitar and voice. Though the mood is rather laid-back, they're not to be mistaken for lounge lizards--people just have a hard time categorizing non-rock music. Far from being a "novelty" act, Friends Of Dean Martinez are just one of many contemporary bands rediscovering the emotional power of music beyond rock 'n' roll.