The highly sought after Curtains is John Frusciante's last release of a prolific 2004 calendar year that saw him release six full-lengths and an EP for good measure. The foundations of the primarily acoustic 11-song set were originally recorded on an eight-track tape machine in Frusciante's living room and then overdubs were subsequently added by John, Ken Wylde (upright bass), Carla Azar of Autolux (drums) and Omar Rodriguez of the Mars Volta (guitar).

"I think this one is the best in terms of a pure listening experience," Frusciante noted. "It's me singing and playing the acoustic guitar. It also has upright bass, and Carla from the band Autolux plays drums. I loved having a feminine energy. My friend Omar Rodriguez-Lopez of the Mars Volta played some guitar. He and I do these solos together where we're using the same amp at the same time. It definitely goes beyond the scope of what an acoustic album normally consists of."

Although Frusciante is best known for his three stints as the integral guitarist in the Red Hot Chili Peppers, he also has an active solo career, having released a dozen albums under his own name. His diverse solo recordings include elements ranging from experimental rock and ambient music to new wave and electronica.