The Steel Wheels (from the album Sideways

The Steel Wheels (from the album Sideways

The Steel Wheels (from the album Sideways on Big Ring Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)
There’s a longtime cliche that says Southern Rock and Roll is defined by a surly attitude, blazing twin guitars, and an approach that breeches the divide between pride and purpose. So, while The Steel Wheels certainly can claim the kind of birthright tying them to that template, they’re not bound to the sort of stereotypes that otherwise govern the sound and style. With a history that goes back more than a dozen years and half a dozen albums to their credit, The Steel Wheels have managed to stake out a sound that distinguishes them from every other regional rocker and allows them to procure a style that’s both imaginative and independent.
Sideways is perfect example. It finds the band — Jay Lapp (vocals, guitars, mandolin), Eric Brubaker (vocals, fiddle), Trent Wagler (vocals, guitar, banjo), Kevin Garcia (drums, percussion, keys), and Jeremy Darrow (bass) — exploring new sonic realms loosely banded under the Americana brand. That diversity is readily apparent even at the outset, with the authority and assurance of “Wait on You” easily segueing into the Funk-fueled rhythm of “Baby Gone”, through to the beguiling balladry of the title track and forward into the soulful sway of “Hero”. To their credit, the band don’t allow themselves to be cast within any singular style, and as a result, there’s interest and intrigue spawned from practically every track. The lovely Celtic-flavored instrumental “Dissidents”, the down-home lilt of “Easy On Your Way”, the fiddle-driven “Morning Before Long” and “Past the Breaks”, and the south of the border pacing of “Morning Before Long” underscore that diversity to marvelous effect.
 
Of course, none of that would matter if the songs themselves weren’t up to par, but fortunately The Steel Wheels have the proverbial ace up their collective sleeve in the form of Wagler’s superior songwriting. He makes every melody count, and as a result, every song sticks to a high standard.  Credit is also due producer Sam Kassirer who ensures the actual cohesion and an approach that consistently works to the music’s best advantage. Happily, it all combines to keep The Steel Wheels as well-oiled sever. (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
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For more info, check out The Steel Wheels website