Arranged for a large band, which includes Paul Winter, Paul Halley, Ted Moore, Glen Velez, Gordon Johnson, Russ Landau, Paul Sullivan, John Clark, Paul Wertico and David Blamires, ARMS AROUND YOU has up to 30 cello parts on some tracks. With Friesen's voice (a personal 'scat' style and lyrics on two songs), and some very exciting percussion, bass, saxophone, keyboards and French horn, Friesen's first solo album showcases the unique voice he has discovered on his instrument and his dynamic compositions.

"ARMS AROUND YOU surges with relentless energy, good taste, and some of the best cello playing in any context. The nine selections also exploit his talents as a composer, vocalist, lyricist and band leader. [..] Friesen enhances many of his cello lines with some unison scat singing that gives the refined sound of his instrument more of a jazzy edge. The man also has a gift for creating melodies that are at once accessible, moving, exciting and unpredictable. [..] 'Arms Around You' shows Friesen to be a superior performer able to synthesize a vast array of influences and ideas into an entertaining, musically satisfying whole."

- TOWER PULSE!

Living Music, 1989