On June 23, Steelism will follow up their critically-acclaimed debut album 615 To Fame with ism, a ten-song collection that finds the band drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design, early Brian Eno productions and 70s film scores. The album will be released on their own imprint Intoxicating Sounds, distributed by Thirty Tigers. The record marks the first time the band brings featured vocalists into their instrumental canon, with guest appearances from Tristen, Ruby Amanfu, Andrew Combs and Jessie Baylin.
“We pieced together ism like a visual mid-century modern design – an array of vibrant colors and tones aligned together while constantly striving for minimalism, even as the production grew,” explains the core duo of guitarist Jeremy Fetzer and pedal steel player Spencer Cullum.
Today, Rolling Stone Country premiered “Eno Nothing” and “Shake Your Heel” ft. Tristen, the first two songs to be released from the forthcoming album.
ism will be available for pre-order tomorrow on iTunes and will include instant downloads of “Eno Nothing” and “Shake Your Heel.” Physical pre-orders are now available via the band’s web store and Amazon.
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), andRobbie Crowell (formerly of Deer Tick) on keys are heard throughout the record. Legendary studio musician Charlie McCoy (Bob Dylan’s Blonde on Blonde) on vibraphone & harmonica and a lush string quartet provide the finishing instrumental touches.
“We began recording ism the day after the election results rolled in which created a tense atmosphere right from the get-go. We depended on Steelism to be our escape. The new rule for the sessions became that a musical part or performance was only successful if it made you laugh or feel cool! Which instantly helps filter a lot of ideas out,” explained the band.
“We wanted to keep the record 100% Nashville from the studio to the musicians and singers. Nashville is currently evolving culturally and is going through some growing pains at the moment, but it continues to be a creative mecca and collaborative atmosphere for all us.”
Steelism will tour this summer and will play the prestigious Newport Folk Festivaland Pilgrimage Fest, with more dates to be announced soon.
Tracklist:
1) Re-Member
2) Eno Nothing
3) Shake Your Heel (ft. Tristen)
4) Anthem
5) Roulette (ft. Ruby Amanfu)
6) Cup of Wasser
7) Chartreuse
8) Lonely Game (ft. Andrew Combs & Jessie Baylin)
9) The Henchman / The Buffalo
10) Let it Brew
Tour Dates:
6/29: Mercy Lounge – Nashville, TN
7/1: Eno River Festival – Raleigh, NC *
7/27: Rockwood Music Hall (Stage 2) – New York, NY
7/30: Newport Folk Fest – Newport, RI
9/23-9/24 @ Pilgrimage Fest – Franklin, TN *
* = co-bill w/ Ruby Amanfu
