Aren't they both annealing processes?

Recovery Anneal: (300 - 1000°F)
Annealing process typically applied to cold-worked material to reduce residual stresses and recover ductility in the material. Temperatures used are below those required for recrystallization or new grain formation.

Recrystallization Anneal: (330 - 1450°F)
Annealing process typically applied to cold-worked metal to produce a new grain structure without going through a phase change in the case of ferrous materials.

They way I read it is @300 degrees non-ferrous material begins to become ductile, and can deform under stress. (Piston being forced into the bore at the top of the stroke)
It takes a little more for ferrous material.

I've always wondered what goes away first, the piston or the liner... I guess I'd have to accurately measure the parts, ruin them and measure again....

If you fully anneal your liner, its junk.