I wrote and recorded Renewal on October 13, 2009. If I recall correctly, this was the first rainstorm this Autumn. Right outside my studio is a vegetable garden. When time allows, I tend to be an avid gardener, so even though I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, where people from more extreme climates might have a tough time recognizing the difference between seasons, I'm pretty tuned in to seasonal changes. The rainfall was a relief after a dusty summer's end. With the air all fresh smelling, I was inspired to do this simple little piece. It marks the first time I've ever recorded a solo pedal steel piece.
the Zum Hybrid I played on all tracks on Hybrid
In preparation for mastering, David Glasser (who did an outstanding job of enhancing my mixes) pointed out to me the difference in tone from one part of the tune to another. It made me realize even more, how responsive my Zum Hybrid steel is. David was hearing the difference between wound and unwound strings, and the difference between positions on the neck. Recording Renewal has piqued my interest in pursuing more solo pedal steel recording.
