Pedal steel guitar is not usually an instrument that I madly adore or even think much about. That may change thanks to Susan Alcorn leading her group who not only carries the torch of her instrument and a lot of the sheer momentum but also burns a trail that often detours into very scenic routes that eventually provide panoramic views that you probably never knew were even there. With her are violinist Mark Feldman, double bassist Michael Formanek, guitarist Mary Halvorson and drummer Ryan Sawyer who magnify the material into a collective endeavour. Throughout the five pieces there are shifts that encompass Americana, chamber music, a rural spirit and that is only the half of it. Halvorson in the band sound in all her engrossing detunery as usual makes her presence felt. As does Formanek although you can't really hear him too much in the mix his presence is still actually very significant probably most of all on the tricksy countable big fun of 'Northeast Rising Sun'. Feldman as usual has incredible tone and that classical purity he is renowned for that in the company of fellow improvisers always goes to places you'd never think are on anyone's itinerary. 'A Night in Gdansk' is the mightiest piece on an album that is full of interest anywhere you care to listen. Alcorn has epic curiosity and the way the afternotes hang in the air is a thrill. SG Out now on Relative Pitch records