Mandolin player David Grisman is known for his hybrid playing style blending jazz, bluegrass, and folk influences, which he calls "dawg music." Grisman's career dates back to the 1960s, collaborating with notable musicians like Stéphane Grappelli and Jerry Garcia. He formed the David Grisman Quintet in 1976, pioneering the "newgrass" and "new acoustic" movements with progressive harmonies and improvisations. Over the years, Grisman has released numerous solo and collaborative albums, exploring a range of genres from jazz to bluegrass.

Starting out as a multi-instrumentalist in his teens, Grisman's journey led him through various bands before establishing his own label, Acoustic Disc, in 1990. Throughout the '90s and beyond, Grisman continued to release albums with different lineups, showcasing his versatility and musical exploration. His discography includes standout releases like Dawg '90, collaborations with Jerry Garcia, and ventures into Latin and bluegrass music. In recent years, Grisman has revisited his earlier works, released new recordings, and unearthed archival gems, solidifying his legacy as a pioneering figure in the fusion of jazz and bluegrass music.