~Buddy Emmons 2007
"I first met Steve Palousek in the 1980's while holding a
weeklong workshop at the Jeffran College of Pedal Steel in Hermitage,
Tennessee. Toward the end of the week, Steve was not only playing
some of the more difficult phrases I had prepared for the class but,
playing them exceptionally well. Needless to say, I was impressed,
but later shocked to hear that he was disappointed in his performance
that week and in tears as Jeff Newman drove him to the airport. It
was hard to understand at first. But then I reminded myself that
there were times in my past when I thought playing good was not
enough. I knew then that he would be okay. Now,
over twenty years later, Steve has lived up to my expectations with his
dexterity, tone, speed and command of both the C6th and E9th
tunings. He's the kind of musician who strives to reach beyond his
years of experience and I'm happy to be able to say I played a small part
in giving him a kick-start. From Jazz to Country, there is much to
draw from on this CD. So, listen to it a few times. Pick a
favorite. Then, sit down at your steel and let the games begin." |
