Steel Surreal
Emotive pedal steel melodies flow over modular synthesizers and percussion in a satisfying mix of wonder, melancholy and drive. (E&E-033)
Pedal steel is such an emotional and beautiful instrument. Going far beyond the confines of country, we previously showcased these unique sonic properties on Liquid Layers (3ING-072) with composer and multi-instrumentalist Philippe Bronchtein (The War & Treaty, Esmé Patterson). But why stop there?
On Steel Surreal (E&E-033) the possibilities are compounded by incorporating modular synthesizers (also by Bronchtein) and percussion from Jason McGerr (Death Cab For Cutie, The Overstory, Tegan and Sara, Matt Nathanson) to Bronchtein’s evocative and spacious steel style. These seemingly disparate instruments come together and amplify the emotion of each performance while providing an additional driving force.
The dynamic variation on Steel Surreal includes several approaches to how this unique instrumentation is utilized, ranging from atmospheric and peaceful on “Skyline Backdrop” to playful and celebratory on “Arc Light.” Modular synthesizers often provide movement underneath the flowing pedal steel melodies while percussion either gently guides or propels the track forward with an organic intensity. It’s this unlikely combination of synthetic and organic instruments that sets the stage for some interesting sonic surprises.
Melancholy melodies, atmospheric backdrops, and a welcome dose of rhythm make this an extremely versatile addition to our catalog. Though rooted in emotion and drama, the applications can be anything from nature documentaries to sophisticated, polished product ads to road movies. If you’re a fan of Liquid Layers, this album takes things to another level without sacrificing the most delicate and moving aspects of pedal steel.
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