Super Furry Animals' Banned Instrument Directive

After dedicating much of 2008 to their various side-projects, the Super Furry Animals are at it again, with a new album scheduled to hit shelves on April 21 (and digital domains on March 16). In a prepared statement, describing the album's melodic riff-driven focus, ring leader Gruff Rhys claims that both pedal steel and the saxophone are now listed on the "Banned Instrument Directive of the SFA board."

Curious about the activities of this supposed SFA board, Spinner asked Rhys to elaborate on its due process.

"The SFA Banned Instrument Directive is shrouded in mystery, red tape and protocol," Rhys admits to Spinner. "It can take years for an instrument to travel the full disciplinary mile. For example, Daf's request to exile the pedal steel to furry oblivion has been pending since February 2003. An extended death row scenario was spared for the saxophone which was fast tracked out of the band's recorded output in 1995, after a deal was struck resulting in clause 76.3 permitting the 'sparing use of zoot style, dissonant or deep fuzz-ual sax, but strictly no solos.'"

Woah -- sounds serious. Or, you know, not so serious. In any event, is AutoTune considered an instrument in itself? Because, if so, we'd like to bring it to the consideration of the board. Oh wait, nevermind -- the Death Cab for Cutie committee is already all over that one.