(This is an old pic. #nevertakepicturesonacameraphone)
Virtuosity and precision were on display Tuesday night at UB's Center for the Arts as Joe Satriani continued to prove why he is one very best in modern guitar rock. There may be, after all, many shredders and speed players but very few of them hold a candle to the Satchman.....
The night began with a performance by the Steve Morse band. Led by legendary guitarist, Steve Morse, who has played with Deep Purple amongst a host of others, the band played a potent mix of jazz-amped, fusion rock, sprinkled with Morse' unique imprint. At times the playing was subdued, at other times raucous. One particular gem, a triple-time rockabilly shuffle played in excess speed seemed a high point. I wasn't too familiar with Steve Morse, but after last night I'm paying attention.
Joe Satriani came on shortly thereafter, hammering out quick spurt guitar leads as only he can. His presence and feel for the guitar cannot be overstated. Joe has an innate understanding of melody and knows where the ear wants to go. It was interesting to watch his dive bomb prowess interact with shreditude to form some truly beautiful guitar soundscapes. And then he played "Flying in a Blue Dream" and the old time fans went crazy. I have to be honest. I would have liked to hear some of the older tunes. He barely touched upon The Extremist or Surfing with the Alien, but I guess it's just a case of artist wanting to play his newer material. I can live with that.
Overall, it was hours of guitar worship, and those who appreciate that sort of thing, revelled in it. This type of music may not be for everyone but those who were there last night will testify to it; the power and beauty of the guitar as an instrument and a communication device with Aliens cannot be denied.
Too much new stuff.
I agree