[rating=8.00]
Every so often you hear a record that makes you think, “they don’t make ‘em like this anymore,” and that is consistently the case with Steelism’s stellar new follow up to their 2014 debut 615 to Fame. Ism is a continuation of the duo’s 70s-inspired instrumentals, with the addition of an impressive group of collaborators. Steelism is the dynamic Jeremy Fetzer and Spencer Cullum, and Ism is a stylish, polished collection of songs that feels artfully curated.
Ism is a varied record, with something to uncover in each song. Joined by Robbie Crowell of Deer Tick on keys, as well as Jon Radford on drums and Jon Estes on bass, Fetzer’s guitar and Cullum’s pedal steel soar to levels of gorgeous, shimmering clarity. Each song is so densely layered, yet smooth and seamless. Opening track “Re-Member” is big and epic with sweeping strings and a bit of twang from Cullum’s steel guitar. And “Eno Nothing” draws inspiration from the quirky, brilliant Brian Eno, playing out like a score for some madcap mystery scene. The keys pop in unexpectedly between Fetzer’s creeping guitar notes, and the whole thing just drips with coolness. “Anthem” packs a bold punch, with a hint of surf guitar and plenty of cheeky pedal steel tricks, and “Cup of Wasser” boasts one of the album’s strongest melodies.
On “Shake Your Heel”, Tristen fades in with her angelic coo before launching into a wacky groove of a chorus. This one’s a psychedelic booty-shaker, and Tristen uses her voice like a soft, swooning set of strings. Fetzer’s speedy riff in the middle adds to the madness in the best way.
Ruby Amanfu joins in on the sultry and suspenseful “Roulette”, her low purr building from a slink to an explosive, soulful belt. Even with such a retro filter, this tune feels modern and sleek. Similar is “Lonely Game” with Andrew Combs and Jessie Baylin, two voices that absolutely belong together. This could easily have roots in the 1970s, but it ends up feeling more inspired than dusty. It’s a shining standout on Ism.
