The British Steelies Society

The duo known as The Shires has been getting a lot of air time lately and seem to be a bright new prospect as good as anything coming out of Nashville nowadays. I wouldn't quite call them "country" although many do. "Americana" seems more appropriate, anyway, they are pretty good. Their new album "Brave" was released a few days ago and is doing well.

I had an interesting exchange with Ben Earle, one of the duo. I chided him that his album has pedal steel "programming" - MIDI sound-alike stuff - instead of real steel. He said "We did all this before we had a record deal, and had to do it on a shoe string. We were helped by friends and well-wishers. We approached some steel players, but could not afford their fees, so we had to fall back on MIDI (i.e. fake) steel".

Now I know many established steel players have been lamenting the lack of paid engagements, and I quite see the point there. But what a pity that budding "prospects" like The Shires couldn't find a steelie who would take a punt, or just give some time to encourage them. I told him they approached the wrong people, and to come here next time they need a steelie. Of course, by then maybe they could afford a session player, although maybe they might avoid those they approached before, who knows.

I just see it as a missed opportunity. Am I a lone voice here?

Yes John, that's what I said. Well, I didn't say "Go to JD", but I did say "You didn't approach the right people" and said to come to the BSS next time.