Billy Strings – Renewal (CD)

Billy Strings' second consecutive Grammy winner for Best Bluegrass Album, Renewal pushed progressive bluegrass into uncharted territory while honoring the tradition that made him a prodigy. Produced by Jonathan Wilson at Fivestar Studios in California, the album features Billy's touring band—Billy Failing on banjo, Royal Masat on bass, Jarrod Walker on mandolin—at full power, balancing breakneck traditional picking with psychedelic exploration and jam band improvisation that connects bluegrass to the Grateful Dead's cosmic explorations. The 16-track album ranges from traditional instrumentals like Fire Line and Hide and Seek to the introspective title track's meditation on personal growth and recovery. Love and Regret became an instant fan favorite for its emotional depth and technical virtuosity, while Show Me the Door showcases Billy's ability to write songs that work both as standalone compositions and as vehicles for extended live improvisation. Themes of addiction, recovery, transformation, and hope resonated beyond the bluegrass festival circuit, introducing Billy to rock and jam band audiences who recognized kindred exploratory spirit. Relix has championed Billy Strings since his early festival appearances, documenting his rise from Michigan picking sessions to arena headliner status. Renewal represents the moment he transcended the prodigy label to establish himself as a major force in American music. CD. Released September 2021 via Rounder Records. Grammy winner Best Bluegrass Album 2022. Produced by Jonathan Wilson. 16 tracks.