Pedal Steel

23 December 2008

Pedal steel makes one of the most beautiful sounds in music.  It’s been my connection to most of the country music that I listen to, but is so suited for psychedelia I’m surprised it has not been utilized more subversively outside of Nashville and Topanga Canyon. Another interesting thing about pedal steel is that it seems to be a dying art form.  Needless to say, if you rip on this thing, you will have no problem getting work.

The slide guitar part of the instrument is basic and no different from lap steel or dobro.  The magic part, and what gives the pedal steel it’s name are the numerous pedals found underneath.  There are a number of foot pedals near the floor, and also some directly under the instrument for the knees to use which can be bent both left and right and also up and down.  Each pedal is coupled to one string, and by activating the pedal, the string’s tuning is changed, usually a semitone.  This allows the instrument to change open tunings very easily, and also allows for bending of notes during play.  So, it’s quite complicated and you can imagine it takes years to master the possibilities of the machine itself, beyond just being a competent guitar player.  Like adding the complexity of playing drums to a guitar. 

Here’s a clip of the Flying Burrito Brothers with Sneaky Pete on pedal steel dressed up like a wizard matador shaman.