ISM

In September 2014, Nashville-based instrumental outfit, Steelism, were introduced to a national audience with the release of their debut full-length album, 615 to FAME. The record, featuring ten original instrumentals and one cover, became a calling card for the band's versatile yet distinct sound, drawing influence from film score composers like Ennio Morricone and '60s instrumental acts like Booker T. & the M.G.s, The Ventures and Pete Drake. With their latest effort, ism, Steelism offers a more holistic listening experience, inspired by mid-century design, early Brian Eno productions and 70s film scores. They also introduce featured vocalists into their instrumental canon for the first time. The result is a refreshing sonic palette with an invigorating twist on the Intoxicating Sounds of Steelism.??ism, was co-produced by guitarist Jeremy Fetzer, pedal steel player Spencer Cullum (together known as Steelism) and Jeremy Ferguson (Lambchop, Tristen, Andrew Combs). Tracking began on November 9th, 2016, with the divisive results of the U.S. Presidential election just in. Respite was found through the creative process while holed up at Ferguson's Battle Tapes Recording studio in Nashville, Tennessee. The usual Steelism rhythm section, Jon Radford (drums) & Jon Estes (bass), and Robbie Crowell (formerly of Deer Tick) on keys are heard throughout the record. Legendary Nashville Cat studio musician Charlie McCoy (Bob Dylan'sBlonde on Blonde) on vibraphone & harmonica and a lush string quartet provide the finishing instrumental touches.??Steelism's inception was motivated by Fetzer & Cullum's desire to explore musically, taking chances with writing and performance that they otherwise couldn't backing other artists. With ism they continue this exploration. Elements of David Axelrod, AIR, & Pink Floyd were noted in the production of the opening track, Re-Member. On Eno Nothing, Fetzer's piano and fuzz steel melody were inspired by the melodic phrasing of jazz pianist Thelonious Monk while put to a driving rhythm. The work of film score composer Lalo Schifrin, Serge Gainsbourg circa Histoire de Melody Nelson and the 1970s German Krautrock movement also inform the sonically rich tone of the record.??TRACKLIST?1. Re-Member?2. Eno Nothing?3. Shake Your Heel (feat. Tristen)?4. Anthem?5. Roulette (feat. Ruby Amanfu)?6. Cup of Wasser?7. Chartreuse ?8. Lonely Game (feat. Andrew Combs & Jessie Baylin)?9. The Henchman / The Buffalo?10. Let It Brew