The British Steelies Society

Sweet. My wife says - notwithstanding the many excellent solo players out there - "the steel is not a solo instrument" and I have to say I feel most comfortable complementing somebody else's work. This is lovely subtle stuff from MJ - you almost don't register it, although you'd know if it wasn't there and the song would be the poorer for its absence.

Will C wrote:.......Sweet. My wife says - notwithstanding the many excellent solo players out there - "the steel is not a solo instrument" and I have to say I feel most comfortable complementing somebody else's work............

I have to agree with you and your wife 100% Will. I much prefer using the steel as a backing instrument. Mike Johnson's work is just atmospheric, and that is why he is one of the most sought after steel players on the planet. Plus he doesn't copy too much from other players.

That was sweet.

Beautiful. Mike Johnson has to be the best there is - when so many steel players seem to want to be measured by the number of notes per bar that they can produce, it is a real treat to hear an accompanist, playing with an ensemble of highly talented musicians, complementing perfectly the singer as well as the song.
John Russell has recently produced a tab of 'Losing You'. one of the tracks on the Alison Krauss CD, 'Windy City' and to be able to get some insight into Mike's playing is a real treat.
I agree with Ken - the best steel guitar CD this year.

I 100% agree that the Alison Krauss album is wonderful and that Mike Johnson is one of the tastiest steel players around. However, I 100% disagree that the steel is not a solo instrument. I think it's one of the most expressive solo instruments in existence. There are too many amazing solo recordings of pedal steel around to back this up.

Im with Paul on this one.