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First/Last – Steelesque

July 17, 2020

Steelesque is equal parts British Blues and latter-day jam band blending the sound and style of Exile on Main Street-era Stones or The Band, with adventurous passages echoing Phish or Wilco. . . At their best, the 6 piece Steelesque delivers the swagger of bands from days gone by while echoing their influences in a way that is all their own.

Steelesque is has been rocking out in Pittsburgh since 2011 and with their latest release from earlier this month appropriate entitled Songswan, it appears the band is hangin up their gear (for now) as members prepare to focus on separate projects. I want to thank Rob Eldridge (Guitar/Wurlitzer/Lead Vocals) for the hours of enjoyment listening to his music and for participating in this edition of First/Last.

The first album you ever bought?
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers – Damn the Torpedoes.

Your last album bought?
Robert Palmer – Sneaking Sally Through the Alley.

Favorite album of all time?
The Rolling Stones – Exile on Main St. Pretty much Keith’s solo record with Jagger on vocals. Keith holed up, in tax exile, in a southern France town while Jagger courted his high-profile wife, Bianca around Europe. I think the record was ahead of its time and people didn’t react favorably until they actually dug in and “got it”. Genius effort in my opinion. I listen to it monthly.

Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Beck’s Hyperspace simply misses the mark in comparison to previous hard-hitting gem albums.

First concert attended?
Simple Minds – Montreal Forum, circa 82.

Last concert?
The Rolling Stones – MetLife Stadium, Summer 2019.

Favorite concert ever?
The Black Crowes, Burlington VT – ‘Southern Harmony’ Tour.

Least favorite concert?
ZZ Top in Albany, NY. Unenthusiastic performance and they followed the The Blacks Crowes who were peaking which added to their stale sound and production.

Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Overwhelming amount of songwriting talent and most of the songwriters are very humble and appreciative of others that comes in the way of mutual support/feedback.

 

Thanks, Robby. Your band was a great example of mature musicians who did their thing the right way in this town, good music, hard work, and positive vibes. Hopefully this ‘break’ is temporary.

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