The Christmas album I recorded many years back, began as a test of sorts. I had three DA-88 digital recorders (24 tracks) and a 32 channel board that I wanted to learn how to use. I was determined to do a one-man band concept, so I purchased a list of gear to facilitate this explorational journey.
Armed with my steel guitar, synth, electric bass, drum machine, plus a snare and cymbals from session great Lonnie Wilson, the process began.
Sonically, I really wanted whatever I recorded to sound and feel like a band of mates were playing together. I chose “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” as the first track. I wanted it to sound like a group of steel guitarists caroling. I always started each track by recording a click track or drum machine to play with. A few hours later I had 5 tracks of steel playing the bass parts, the rhythm parts, the melody and its harmony parts.
After that track I was excited and inspired to complete the project. I learned a lot about the steel guitar’s potential on this album.
Greg Galbraith played acoustic rhythm, Randy Mason played Snare and hi hat with brushes to enhance the drum machine. Using a synth, Bob Patin played the acoustic bass parts and the brilliant organ solo on “What Child Is This“.
I hope you enjoy this insight into the laborious yet very rewarding process behind the recording!
-Paul
NOTE! YOU CAN BUY IT HERE NOW!
Long out of print, much in demand, and hard to come by, Paul’s instrumental Christmas favorites album is now available.