Steel player
Joe Goldmark proves on his many albums what many have always known: that the pedal steel has potential far outside the sphere of country music. On
Strong Like Bull but Sensitive Like Squirrel,
Goldmark (who has also published a book about his chosen instrument) not only breaks down genre barriers, but also shows the emotional range of the steel guitar. One listen to
Goldmark's instrumental version of
Otis Redding's "These Arms of Mine" pretty much dashes any country & western preconceptions about the pedal steel. The track is pure, gut-wrenching soul, bolstered by Stax horns.
Goldmark even ably tackles the
Nick Lowe composition "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding" (popularized by
Elvis Costello), showcasing the bouncy pop potential of the pedal steel. Ubiquitous pedal steel player Greg Leisz has already redefined the instrument by working with artists in various genres (and by sacrificing a "signature sound" for the benefit of the overall composition).
Goldmark takes another approach -- and furthers the work of Leisz -- by making his own albums. ~ Erik Hage