Emphasizing the significance of a single distinct voice handling melodies and solos, Joe Satriani discusses the intricate onstage partnership between Satch/Vai and explains why certain songs are best suited for Steve Vai.
Joe Satriani and Steve Vai's legendary collaboration on the Satch/Vai tour is an unforgettable spectacle for any electric guitar enthusiast. The feeling of camaraderie between these two titans of the six-string is palpable, especially on a time when a good vibe is needed. But how do they pull off this jaw-dropping guitar extravaganza onstage?
Let's face it, Pete Thorn’s job isn't an easy one; he’ll be manning the rhythm sections like a pro. But will we see Vai tear through the classic rhythm from "Surfing with the Alien," or Satriani soulfully play For the Love of God on lead?
Speaking to the British guitar heavyweight, GuitarGuitar, Satriani reveals the secret sauce: they're swapping lead guitar duties, ensuring each guitar hero leaves their unique mark while staying out of each other's way.
"We've spent decades playing together, making things super easy," says Satriani. "However, some of Steve's tunes call for his undisputed talent." Technical difficulty and the importance of a clear voice for the melodies and solos are taken seriously, song by song.
If "Teeth of the Hydra" is on deck, that's why Satriani delegates to Vai. And if Vai himself admits that And We Are One, from 2016's Modern Primitive, holds his greatest accomplishment on the guitar, we can see why he's taking the lead.
But don't think Satriani rolls over! He tells GuitarGuitar that during rehearsals, he and Vai discovered their separate arrangements can coexist and even be expanded for a beautiful interplay.
The Sea of Emotion, Pt. 1, the first original composition they ever wrote together, and the recent "I Wanna Play My Guitar," which features Glenn Hughes on mesmerizing vocals are just a few examples of their enthralling collaboration.
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Satriani penned "I Wanna Play My Guitar," originally intending for Hughes and Justin Hawkins of the Darkness to share the vocals. Hawkins wasn't available, but Hughes rose to the occasion. Satriani, feeling embarrassed about his vocal demo, sent it to Hughes with hopes it would never be heard!
Both tracks are thematically tied together. At 68, Satriani and the 65-year-old Vai, reminisce about their youth spent chasing their rock 'n' roll dreams and worshiping their beloved guitars. Think of these tracks as odes to the fretboard-wielding teenagers of the '70s--two of whom just happen to be the world's top guitar virtuosos.
"This song epitomizes everything we dreamed of as teenagers," said Vai. "The pounding rock 'n' roll and the sacred guitar...It feels like freedom and joy, and I recommend everyone finds some time in their lives to play the guitar--enjoy!"
The Satch/Vai Band’s Surfing With the Hydra Tour brings breathtaking performances to the UK on June 13, at the Barbican in York. Check out the Satch/Vai Band for the full UK tour dates and ticket details.
- Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, renowned for their collaboration and electric guitar skills, were seen employing a unique technique of swapping lead guitar duties during their Satch/Vai tour.
- Gibson Guitars, being a favorite among guitar legends, might have been a part of the equipment used by Satriani and Vai, given their preference for Les Paul models.
- Each musician's distinctive style was evident on the stage, with Vai showcasing his undisputed talent on songs like "Surfing with the Alien", and Satriani gracefully playing solos on songs like For the Love of God.
- The amps used for the electric guitars in the Satch/Vai tour were crucial in creating the full, immersive sound that entertained the audience.
- While Satriani and Vai are known for their expertise on electric guitars, they also demonstrated their versatility by experimenting with bass guitars in their recent collaborative effort, "I Wanna Play My Guitar".
