Joe Satriani Reveals New LP’s Release Date, Specs

Posted on February 8, 2020 by philspicks

Courtesy: Sony Music/Legacy Recordings

Joe Satriani released the details on his new album this week.

Shapeshifting is scheduled for release April 10 through Sony Music/Legacy recordings. Satriani debuted the album’s lead single ‘Nineteen Eighty‘ Thursday. According to multiple media outlets, the song is a tribute to fellow guitar legend Eddie Van Halen.

Satriani talked about his respect for EVH in a recent interview.

“I’ve always been a huge fan of Eddie Van Halen,” he said. “In my mind, he just crystallized that era. the late 70s and early 80s, he kind of saved rock guitar. So that’s what I would have been doing.”

Pre-orders for the 13-song record are open now. Kenny Aronoff, who filled in for Chad Smith on Chickenfoot’s most recent tour, joins Satriani on this record as one of a handful of special guest musicians. Also featured on Shapeshifting are the likes of bassist Chris Chaney (Jane’s Addiction), Lisa Coleman (The Revolution) and Christopher Guest.

The album was co-produced by Satriani and Jim Scott (Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers). John Cuniberti mastered the album. the album’s track listing is noted below.

JOE SATRIANI – “SHAPESHIFTING”

Shapeshifting
Big Distortion
All For Love
Ali Farka, Dick Dale, an Alien and Me
Teardrops
Perfect Dust
Nineteen Eighty
All My Friends Are Here
Spirits, Ghosts and Outlaws
Falling Stars
Waiting
Here The Blue River
Yesterday’s Yesterday

Satriani will hit the road in support of Shapeshifting beginning April 15 in Mainz, Germany. The 42-date European tour is scheduled to run through June 11 in Barcelona, Spain. It will feature performances in cities, such as Paris, France; Vienna, Austria and Glasgow, UK.

The tour’s schedule is noted below.

JOE SATRIANI – “THE SHAPESHIFTING TOUR 2020”

DATE                                       CITY, COUNTRY                                  VENUE
4/15/20                       Mainz, Germany                     Halle 45
4/16/20                       Zurich, Switzerland                 Volkshaus Zurich
4/18/20                       Karlsruhe, Germany                Tollhaus
4/19/20                       Berlin, Germany                      Huxleys
4/20/20                       Oberhausen, Germany           Turbinenhalle
4/21/20                       Amsterdam, Netherlands Melkweg the Max
4/23/20                       Borgerhout, Antwerp De Roma
4/24/20                       Enschede, Netherlands Muziekcentrum Enschede
4/25/20                       Winterbach, Germany            Salierhalle
4/27/20                       Aarhus, Denmark                    Train
4/28/20                       Odense, Denmark                   Posten
4/29/20                       Copenhagen, Denmark           Amager Bio
4/30/20                       Stockholm, Sweden                Fryshuset Arenan
5/2/20                         Oslo, Norway                          Rockefeller Music Hall
5/5/20                         Warsaw, Poland                      Stodola Club
5/6/20                         Prague, Czech                         Prague Congress Centre
5/7/20                         Vienna, Austria                       Vienner Stadthalle F
5/8/20                         Budapest, Hungary                 Barba Negra Track
5/10/20                       Bologna, Italy                          Teatro Europauditorium
5/12/20                       Firenze, Italy                           Teatro Verdi
5/14/20                       Napoli, Italy                             Teatro Augusteo
5/15/20                       Lecce, Italy                              Teatro Politeama Greco
5/16/20                       Roma, Italy                              Auditorium Conciliazione
5/18/20                       Milano, Italy                            Teatro Dal Verme
5/19/20                       Nurnberg, Germany                Löwensaal
5/20/20                       Heerlen, Netherlands RABOzaal Heerlen
5/22/20                       Bexhill, UK                               Bexhill De La Warr
5/23/20                       Glasgow, UK                           O2 Academy Glasgow
5/24/20                       Gateshead, UK Gateshead Sage 1
5/25/20                       Manchester, UK                      Bridgewater Hall
5/26/20                       London, UK                             Palladium
5/28/20                       Birmingham, UK                     Birmingham Symphony Hall
5/30/20                       Gerardmer, France                 Gerardmer Motordays Festival
5/31/20                       Strasbourg, France                 La Laiterie
6/2/20                         Paris, France                           L’Olympia
6/4/20                         Nantes, France                        Cite des Congres
6/5/20                         Saint-Malo, France La Nouvelle Vague
6/6/20                         Clermont-Ferrand, France La Cooperative de Mai
6/7/20                         Lyon, France Le Transbordeur
6/9/20                         Valencia, Spain Auditorio Casa de Cultura Burjassot
6/10/20                       Madrid, Spain Sala La Riviera
6/11/20                       Barcelona, Spain                     Sala Barts

More dates TBA shortly…

In other news, Joe Satriani’s landmark album Surfing With The Alien recently received the reissue treatment. The reissue was part of Record Store Day in November, and featured a second disc that itself featured the iconic album without any of its guitar solos (I.E. edited takes of each song).

Also recently released to streaming is the collection Additional Creations and Bonus Tracks. The 16-song compilation features alternate takes of four songs from his album Engines of Creation as well as 12 other rarities.

More information on Joe Satriani’s forthcoming album and tour is available online at:

Website: http://www.satriani.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joesatriani

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chickenfootjoe

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Satriani Announces New Live Dates; To Release New Album This Spring

Posted on January 16, 2020 by philspicks

Photo Credit: Joseph Cultice

Joe Satriani is opening the new year with a bang.

The virtuoso guitarist was inducted Wednesday into the Metal Hall of Fame. He announced the same day, he will release his new album Shapeshifting this spring, and will launch a tour in support of the album on April 15.

Shapeshifting will be Satriani’s 18th full-length solo album. The album’s release date will be announced soon.

The Shapeshifting tour is scheduled to launch April 15 in Mainz, Germany and to run through June 11 in Barcelona, Spain. It will feature performances in cities, such as Paris, France; Vienna, Austria and Glasgow, UK. The tour’s schedule is noted below.

JOE SATRIANI – “THE SHAPESHIFTING TOUR 2020”

More dates TBA shortly…

More information on Joe Satriani’s forthcoming album and tour is available online at:

Website: http://www.satriani.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joesatriani

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chickenfootjoe

Zakk Wylde Added To 2019 Experience Hendrix Tour Lineup

Posted on February 17, 2019 by philspicks

Courtesy: Experience Hendrix, LLC

The annual experience Hendrix tour added another big name to its lineup this week.

Concert organizers announced this week that Zakk Wylde has joined this year’s nationwide celebration of Jimi Hendrix. The announcement was made in a news release sent Friday from Experience Hendrix LLC.

Wylde will join artists, such as Joe Satriani (who has previously taken part in the annual tour), blues legend Taj Mahal and Megadeth front man Dave Mustaine for this year’s tour. This is not the first time that Wylde has taken part in the Experience Hendrix tour, having first taken part in the tour in 2014. He has appeared on the tour many times since then.

Wylde talked about joining the tour again in a recent interview.

“Hendrix, you can pick out a mile away,” Wylde said. “His sound, his execution — he was about as unique as it gets. I’m a fan of all the guys on the tour. I’m just excited to get out there and hang around the whole thing. Just watching them play and jammin’ with them.”

This year’s Experience Hendrix tour is scheduled to start on March 3 in Pompano Beach, FL and to run through Apr. 6 in Wallingford, CT. The tour features performances in cities, such as Raleigh, NC; Washington, D.C. and Albany, NY. The tour’s current schedule is noted below.

2019 Experience Hendrix Tour

Mar 3 Pompano Beach, FL – Pompano Beach Amphitheater*

Mar 4 Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall*

Mar 5 Melbourne, FL – King Center for the Performing Arts*

Mar 6 Jacksonville, FL – Florida Theatre

Mar 8 North Charleston, SC – North Charleston Performing Arts Center

Mar 9 Atlanta, GA – The Fox Theatre-Atlanta*

Mar 10 Nashville, TN – Schermerhorn Symphony Center*

Mar 11 Huntsville, AL – Von Braun Center*

Mar 12 Chattanooga, TN – Tivoli Theater*

Mar 14 Raleigh, NC – Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts*

Mar 15 Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium*

Mar 16 Knoxville, TN – Tennessee Theatre*

Mar 17 Cincinnati, OH – The Taft Theatre*

Mar 19 Louisville, KY – Louisville Palace Theatre*

Mar 20 Madison, WI – Overture Center for the Arts*

Mar 21 Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater*

Mar 22 Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre*

Mar 23 Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre*

Mar 24 Charleston, WV – The Clay Center

Mar 26 Washington, DC – Warner Theatre

Mar 27 Bensalem, PA – Xcite Center at Parx Casino

Mar 28 Westbury, NY – Theatre At Westbury

Mar 29 Newark, NJ – New Jersey Performing Arts Center

Mar 30 Niagara Falls, NY – Seneca Niagara Casino

Apr 1 Syracuse, NY – Landmark Theatre for the Performing Arts

Apr 2 Red Bank, NJ – Count Basie Center for the Arts

Apr 3 Albany, NY – Palace Theatre

Apr 4 Lowell, MA – Lowell Memorial Auditorium

Apr 5 New Bedford, MA – Zeiterion Performing Arts Center

Apr 6 Wallingford, CT – Toyota Presents Oakdale Theatre

*dates with Zakk Wylde

More information on this year’s Experience Hendrix tour is available online now along with all of the tour’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://www.experiencehendrixtour.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JimiHendrix

Twitter: http://twitter.com/jimihendrix

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Satriani Leaves Listeners Asking “What Happens Next?” In The Best Way With His New LP

Posted on February 6, 2018 by philspicks

Courtesy Epic Records

Guitar great Joe Satriani has done seemingly everything that can be done by an artist of his caliber and experience. He has built quite the successful solo career. He has served as a member of the famed rock band Deep Purple and as the rock super group Chicken Foot as well as so much more. Considering how much Satriani has done and how much success he has had throughout the course of his decades-long career, one is left asking after each of his releases, “what happens next?” Thus we get the title of his latest album, What Happens Next. Released Jan. 12 via Epic Records, this 16th full-length studio recording from the virtuoso guitarist is everything that audiences have come to expect from Satriani. That is due to the continued growth exhibited throughout the album’s 51-minute run time. That growth is exhibited both in the songs that throw back to Satriani’s established albums and to those that show his continued abilities. That growth is just one part of what makes this album stand out Its sequencing plays its own important part in the album’s overall presentation, too. This element will be discussed later. The record’s production rounds out its most important elements. When it is set alongside the record’s sequencing and clear growth exhibited within the songs’ arrangements, the whole of the elements noted here makes this record a work that will leave listeners asking once again, “What happens next?” in the very best way.

Joe Satriani’s latest full-length studio recording What Happens Next is easily one of this year’s top new rock records. The 12-song record shows yet again over the course of its 51-minute run time why Satriani remains today one of rock’s elite musicians. This is due to the continued growth exhibited throughout the course of the album’s run. Right from the outset, fans familiar with Satriani’s body of work are transported to his 2004 album Is There Love In Space? in ‘Energy.’ the aptly titled song is a straight-forward, up-tempo piece that harkens back to ‘Hands In The Air,’ the third of the album’s offerings. What’s really interesting to note here is that while the songs bear a stylistic similarity in their sounds and energies, it’s obvious that Satriani didn’t just rehash that earlier song. This completely contradicts the statements of so many who have claimed that this album is more of the same from Satriani. One could argue that the album’s second song, ‘Catbot’ also throws back to some of his older works, too. Even with that comparison possible, one has to admit that the song’s arrangement, with its fuzz effect on the guitar bears more similarity to recent works from Royal Blood than anything that Satriani has composed before. The album’s third song, ‘Thunder High on the Mountain’ presents a run that would make Zakk Wylde and Tom Morello proud. It’s the kind of run that Satriani has not composed before, but instantly conjures thoughts of his aforementioned counterparts. Again, it shows that continued growth that has been mentioned so many times already. That display of growth doesn’t end here, either. Rather it continues on throughout the rest of the album. ‘Cherry Blossoms,’ with its contrasting “A” and “B” sections also takes listeners back in time, conjuring thoughts of perhaps works from Satriani’s 1998 album Crystal Planet while also changing things up considerably. The changes come in the form of the string arrangements in the “A” sections and the more reserved guitar line in the “B” section. The song gets even more lively in its bridge, with Satriani just letting go. ‘Headrush,’ with its uptemp guitar lick instantly conjures thoughts of ‘Satch Boogie,’ from Satriani’s 1987 album Surfing With The Alien. Deep Purple bassist Glenn Hughes’ walking bass line in this song adds a nice bluesy touch that helps in its own way the growth, as does Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith with his polyrhythmic patterns. It’s yet another way in which this record reaches back in time while also looking clearly forward. As if that wasn’t example enough, ‘Super Funky Badass’ reaches back to Satriani’s ’06 record Super Colossal thanks to its arrangement. Yet again though, as much as it bears similarities to songs from that record, it also establishes its own identity, thanks again to its arrangement. There is some material here that is slightly more intense than the music on Super Colossal. That contrast and comparison once more proves that this record is in fact not just more of the same from Satriani. It shows that while yes, there are some similarities between songs here and his established works, there is just as much new to appreciate from start to finish. Much the same could be argued of every one of the other songs not noted here. That being the case, when those songs are joined with the works directly discussed here, the arrangements featured here form a solid foundation for the record’s presentation. They are not the album’s only important collective element either. Its sequencing is important to discuss, too.

The sequencing at the heart of What Happens Next is important to its whole because of the general effect that it creates through the song’s energies. The album starts off rather upbeat, as has already been noted. Even with the momentary reservation in energy in ‘Thunder High on The Mountain,’ that decline is only momentary. The same can be said of the energy in the album’s fourth track, ‘Cherry Blossoms.’ The song’s energy feels slightly reserved at times, but even in that reservation, it doesn’t necessarily slow down per se. It’s something that must be heard to be fully understood and appreciated. It’s just a nice solid balanced up and down of energies within the very context of the one song. That balance is just as evident in ‘Righteous.’ As the album enters its midpoint in ‘Smooth Soul,’ the album does markedly slow down, but it’s in a good way. That pullback gives listeners just enough time to breath before Satriani launches into the much more up-tempo ‘Headrush,’ which again is another throwback composition that shows a certain growth from the professor. The album’s energies vary even more as the album makes its way through its second half from contemplative to playful to gentle and reserved to close things out. Simply put, from one song to the next, the album’s energies remain stable without fault. That being the case, it shows plenty of thought was put into the album’s sequencing, proving once and for all why the album’s sequencing is so important to the album’s whole. It is not the last of the album’s important elements, either. The album’s production rounds out its most important elements.

The production at the center of What Happens Next is important to discuss because of the general effect that it has on the album’s overall presentation. Just as the album’s energy is balanced from start to finish in this record, ensuring listeners’ maintained engagement, so are each of the trio’s parts in each song. Satriani, Hughes and Smith each shine throughout the record thanks to producer Mike Fraser’s work. This should come as no surprise considering that Fraser has worked with Satriani for so many years. The pair’s friendship and understanding of one another comes across clearly throughout this record as not only Satch gets plenty of time, but he also gladly gives up the spotlight so many times in favor of teamwork from his fellow musicians. Because each member of the group gets his own time to shine (and plenty of it at that), the end result is a record that sounds great and new from beginning to end even with its comparisons to its predecessors. When this is considered alongside the expertly balanced energies exhibited throughout the record’s sequencing and the impressive and enjoyable arrangements at the heart of each song, the whole of those elements shows without doubt why this record will indeed leave listeners asking “What happens next?” in the best way possible.

Joe Satriani’s 16th full-length studio recording What Happens Next is, while maybe not one of his landmark offerings, still an enjoyable record that is certain to leave listeners asking “What happens next?” in the best possible way. That statement is proven in part through 12 musical arrangements that take listeners through Satriani’s past, present and even future. The sequencing of those songs strengthens the record even more thanks to the balance of energy from one song to the next. The record’s production puts the final touch to its presentation. Each element is important in its own right, as has been pointed out. All things considered, this record is another impressive and enjoyable offering from one of the true masters. It is a work that once more will leave listeners asking “what happens next?” in all of the best ways possible. More information on What Happens Next is available online now along with all of Satriani’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://www.satriani.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joesatriani

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chickenfootjoe

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Chickenfoot To Release Its First Hits Compilation Next Month

Posted on January 28, 2017 by philspicks

Courtesy: eOne Music

Chickenfoot will release its first-ever hits collection this spring.

The rock super group announced this week it will release its new hits collection Best + Live on March 10, 2017. The compilation includes ‘Get It Up,’ ‘Soap On A Rope,’ ‘Dubai Blues’ and eight other Chickenfoot favorites.

It also includes a “new” song, ‘Divine Termination,’ which the band performed live last May. The song was performed during a performance at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe. The performance was from one of two one-off shows performed at the famed casino.

The band’s hits and its new songs are just some of what audiences have to look forward to on Chickenfoot’s new compilation record. It will also feature three live performances included in that main disc.

To sweeten the deal for fans, the collection will also include a second disc that features 11 live performances from Chickenfoot. The songs featured on the bonus live disc were originally included in the band’s 2010 Live DVD/BD Get Your Buzz On.

The full track listing for Best + Live is noted below.

Tracklist “BEST+LIVE”
CD1 – BEST OF
01. Divine Termination (BRAND NEW SONG)
02. Soap On A Rope
03. Sexy Little Thing
04. Oh Yeah
05. Get It Up
06. Future In The Past
07. Big Foot
08. Different Devil
09. Lighten Up
10. Dubai Blues
11. Something Going Wrong

Bonus LIVE TRACKS:
12. Highway Star
13. Bad Motor Scooter
14. My Generation

CD2 – LIVE
01. Avenida Revolution
02. Sexy Little Thing
03. Soap On A Rope
04. My Kinda Girl
05. Down The Drain
06. Bitten By The Wolf
07. Oh Yeah
08. Learning To Fall
09. Get It Up
10. Turnin’ Left
11. Future In The Past

More information on Best + Live is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://www.chickenfoot.us

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chickenfoot

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chickenfoot

Chad Smith Lends His Talents To SAD’s Upcoming Debut LP

Posted on October 23, 2015 by philspicks

Photo Credit: Thierry Brouard

Independent rock band Screaming at Demons recently introduced itself to the world in a big way when it partnered with the nationally known charity group Homeless Rock Stars. The band combined the video for its new song ‘Rock Star’ with footage from a Homeless Rock Stars event to make an emotionally moving and powerful to help raise money for the organization and introduce itself to the music community at large at the same time. Now the band has taken another huge step in getting its name out there. The band has enlisted the help of one of the most talented and respected drummers in the music community today to help record a pair of songs for its upcoming debut record.

Screaming at Demons announced this week that it has enlisted famed drummer Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chickenfoot) to record the drums for two of the songs to be included in the band’s upcoming album. Those songs are ‘Our Time’ and ‘All Of Me.’ Smith’s inclusion on the album, which currently has no set release date, is rooted in his friendship with AD bassist Chris Clemmence. Having previously performed live with Smith, Clemmence had a first hand understanding of and appreciation for Smith’s work behind the kit, leading to Clemmence asking Smith to lend his talents to the band’s new record. When asked about those talents, Clemmence responded telling reporters, “Chad is a legend and phenomenal powerhouse of a drummer. We are beyond honored to have him play on our two new upcoming singles. His feel and groove have brought our songs to a new level. We are so lucky to have him as well as an all-star team working on our music.”

Photo Credit: Thierry Brouard

Currently, Screaming at Demons is hard at work on its upcoming album. The album is being mixed by five-time Grammy Award-winning producer Chris Lord-Alge. Alge is no stranger to the music community and obviously to success within that community having those awards to his name. The roster of bands with which he has worked over the course of his career says plenty of his expertise behind the boards. That list includes the likes of: Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Cher, Bon Jovi, Seal, Meatloaf, Three Days Grace, Aerosmith, Shinedown, Deftones, and countless others. Alge was asked by reporters his thoughts on working with SAD. his response showed just how excited he is to work with front man Shimon Moore and fellow SAD band mates Russell Ali and Chris Clemmence. He had only positive things to say of working with the band, noting of the group, “A new level of excitement is coming from these boys and they are giving back to people in need and making music that instantly makes you wanna be a part of it!” While fans wait for Alge, and the members of SAD to finish the band’s new album, they can check out the band’s video for its inspirational and infectious song ‘Rock Star.’ It can be viewed online now via YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0g7QiwkAe4&feature=youtu.be. Audiences can also keep up with all of the latest updates from the studio and all of the band’s latest news online at:

Website: http://screamingatdemons.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/screamingatdemons

Concert For Ronnie Montrose Is As Good As Any Major Label’s Live Recordings

Posted on December 28, 2013 by philspicks

Courtesy: RoMoCo

2013 has seen quite the surplus of live concert recordings. Bands the likes of Jane’s Addiction, The Rolling Stones, Black Sabbath and so many others have been released to the masses. Each of those live recordings has proven to be exceptional in its own way. These recordings will be seen by countless audiences thanks to being released via some of the music industry’s biggest labels. It doesn’t mean that they’re the only live recordings to hit the market this year. One independently recorded and released live concert event that deserves just as much coverage as those aforementioned recordings is the Concert for Ronnie Montrose. Recorded April 27^th, 2012 at the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco, California, this live concert event will impress anyone that is a fan of true, pure, guitar-driven rock and roll. This applies to even those that might not be so familiar with the work of Ronnie Montrose. There is much to like about this new live recording. The most obvious of factors is the concert’s audio and video mix. For a show that was independently recorded and released, it looks and sounds surprisingly good. The show’s set list and guest lineup collectively make up another of the reasons to check out this concert. And while it is something relatively subtle, those charged with finalizing the concert included names and titles for each artist on each song. For those that might be unfamiliar with the artists, this inclusion will help to introduce the artists to said new audiences when they look up each name. In turn, it could open audiences’ eyes and ears to a whole new world of music. Together with the aforementioned factors, the Concert For Ronnie Montrose proves to be just as enjoyable as any live recording released by the industry’s major labels.

The Concert for Ronnie Montrose is an independently recorded and released live concert event. The automatic thought that might be raised in some audiences’ minds upon reading this is that it probably doesn’t match up with the live recordings released by the record industry’s major labels. That belief could not be any more wrong. The reality of this concert recording is that it looks and sounds just as good as any of the countless other live recordings released on said labels already in 2013. The camera crews charged with capturing the concert expertly carried out their duties. Home viewers get the best seat in the house. They are taken right on stage with the musicians and even above the crowd to see the full extent of the audience in attendance. Seeing how packed the house was on the night of April 27^th, 2012 just goes to show that while Ronnie Montrose might never have been one of the biggest names in the industry, he was and still is one of the most respected individuals to pick up a guitar. It is truly a telling statement, and one that any Ronnie Montrose fan will appreciate when they watch this concert for themselves.

The Concert for Ronnie Montrose was captured just as expertly on video as any live recording released via the industry’s major labels. It is crystal clear. And the camera work itself is just as impressive. Having examined the recording’s high-quality video, the next logical step is to examine its audio mix. Having been recorded in the semi-intimate setting of San Francisco’s Regency Ballroom, it goes without saying that it was extremely important that the audio be perfect. Those that are more familiar with the science of acoustics will appreciate the painstaking efforts taken to ensure that the concert’s sound was on par with any major live recording. Not one of the guitarists overpowered the other at any point throughout the evening. And none of the musicians overpowered their fellow guest vocalists, either. That set alongside the equally top notch camera work and video editing serve as the foundation for a concert recording that proves in the long run to be just as good as any of the year’s major concert recordings.

The audio and video mixes in the Concert for Ronnie Montrose collectively make for a solid foundation for this recording. Having examined both, the next logical step in examining the presentation is to look at the collective set list and the guest lineup. The set list that comprises this tribute concert spans the late guitarist’s rich career before his passing. From his days with the Edgar Winter Group to his work with the band that bore his name to his solo career, this concert is front loaded with more than its share of great music. Even audiences that might perhaps be less familiar with Montrose’s work will likely recognize the Edgar Winter Group’s hit songs ‘Frankenstein’ and ‘Free Ride’ and the cover of The Rolling Stones’ ‘Connection.’ What’s more, those that might be fans of Dream Theater will hear quite the similarity between the concert’s opener, ‘Overture’ and certain work by Dream Theater guitarist John Petrucci on the first of Liquid Tension Experiment’s two records. Petrucci wasn’t one of the artists on hand at the Concert for Ronnie Montrose. However, some equally big names were in attendance. And their presence is sure to impress audiences just as much as the show’s set list.

The lineup of artists on hand to pay tribute to Ronnie Montrose is just as eye-opening as the show’s set list. Classic rock fans will recognize former Journey band mates Steve Smith and Neal Schon and Tesla front man Jeff Keith. Also on hand were two equally big names in the form of Montrose’s former band mate and friend Sammy Hagar (Montrose, Van Halen, Chickenfoot) and world renowned guitarist Joe Satriani (Chickenfoot). Hagar and Montrose’s fellow former band mates were on hand for the concert, too. Anyone that was a fan of the band in its heyday will appreciate seeing its members back together if only for a one off show. If the set list that makes up the show isn’t enough for audiences, then this megastar lineup of artists is certain to convince audiences to check out this recording.

So much has already been noted as to what makes the Concert for Ronnie Montrose such a joy of a live recording, even having been recorded and released independently. There is still one factor in the recording to examine. It is a subtle, yet important factor to examine. It is the inclusion of what is called “supers” (or superimposed images) highlighting the names and titles of each musician to take the stage throughout the concert. Their inclusion is important for those that might happen to be new to each musician. The names and titles are placed right in front of each musician. This allows audiences to directly link a name with a face. Audiences that are less familiar with said artists can in turn link the names and faces when looking up information on each one online or otherwise. The latent effect of all of this is the potential introduction of a whole new world of music to new audiences. For that alone, those charged with making sure the supers matched with each artist deserve their own round of applause. And together with the camera crews, sound editors, and performers themselves, it all comes together to make the Concert for Ronnie Montrose a concert that any purist rock and roll fan will appreciate no less with each watch. It is available now and can be ordered online at http://www.ronniemontrose.com/merchandise/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=65&products_id=238. More information on this and all things Ronnie Montrose is available via the official Ronnie Montrose website, http://www.ronniemontrose.com. To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

The Winery Dogs’ Debut A Super Record From A True Supergroup

Posted on June 27, 2013 by philspicks

Courtesy: Loud & Proud Records

2013 has been quite a year for new rock records. The list of new records vying to make critics’ lists of the year’s best is already cluttered. And the year’s not even out yet. That list already includes releases from the likes of: Pop Evil, Queensryche, Buckcherry, Filter and Joe Satriani just to name a handful of releases. Now with the release of its self-titled release, rock trio The Winery Dogs has added its name to that already massively cluttered landscape. The band—Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater, Adrenaline Mob), Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big), and Richie Kotzen (Mr. Big, Poison)—instantly draws comparisons to Chickenfoot from early on with its brand of rock. If one were to listen to this and not know it was another band, one would instantly think one was listening to the latter of the two. Even vocalist Richie Kotzen sounds at times like Chickenfoot front man Sammy Hagar. At others, he sounds like Soundgarden/former Audioslave front man Chris Cornell. The similarity in the singers’ voices is eerie.

The band’s new self-titled album is a solid mix of sounds, opening with a trio of heavier, energy-laden songs in: ‘Elevate’, ‘Desire’ and ‘We Are One.’ From there, things slow down a little bit in ‘I’m No Angel’ ‘The Other Side’ and ‘You Saved Me.’ What’s interesting here is that while this trio of songs is a little more subdued, there is still a certain controlled energy throughout all three. The guitar solos in ‘We Are One’ along with Portnoy’s expert drumming in this song is just one of so many of the album’s highlights. ‘You Saved Me’ is impressive not just because of its musical content, but also for its uplifting lyrical content. Kotzen sings, “You saved me in my darkest hour/You stood by me and stayed/You gave me all my strength and power/And when sunshine turned to grey/In my darkest hour/You stood by me and stayed/You stood with me/My guiding angel.” This could be interpreted in a religious sense. It could just as easily be considered more in the sense of a relationship. Regardless of which angle one takes here, the ballad with its moving music and equally uplifting lyrics is sure to impress any listener.

‘You Saved Me’ is a fitting midpoint for The Winery Dogs’ debut record. That is because it is after this point that things pick back up beginning with what is one of the best of the best from this record in ‘Not Hopeless.’ This song is a standout thanks to the contradiction of the heavier, slower sludge rock style verses to the more standard rock style choruses. Kotzen shows throughout both sections (and his solos) that he can easily hold his own alongside fellow guitar great Zakk Wylde here. And if this isn’t enough to get listeners excited, the album’s next track, ‘One More Time’ definitely will. Bass virtuoso Billy Sheehan gets his chance to shine in this up-tempo prog rock piece alongside Portnoy. Sheehan gets his own solo alongside Portnoy in the song’s bridge. Kotzen eventually joins in to add in his own spice, too. By the time the song ends, it will have left listeners in awe of the trio’s talent once more. Forget the lyrics. This song is entirely about the talent of these three musicians. And it definitely doesn’t disappoint.

After the high energy of ‘One More Time’ and ‘Not Hopeless’, the band slows things down only momentarily in ‘Damaged’ and ‘Six Feet Deeper.’ This gives listeners just enough time to catch their collective breath before diving back in the deep end again on the album’s final trio of songs. ‘Time Machine’, ‘The Dying’, and ‘Regret’ finish off the album. And they do so in expert form. The energy in these three songs is just enough to keep listeners engaged right to the final notes without skipping even one song. Suffice it to say that listeners that are familiar with the musicianship of Sheehan, Portnoy and Kotzen will be just as impressed with this record as anything else that the trio has recorded throughout its career. For those that are new to the trio’s talents, these final three songs are certain to seal the deal and make new fans of three of the most talented individuals in the music industry today.

Winery Dogs’ debut record is slated to be released Tuesday, July 23^rd via Loud & Proud Records. Fans can pre-order it now via the Loud & Proud Records website at http://loudandproudrecords.com/releases/winery-dogs/. In the meantime, fans can check out the band’s new album live on its tour. It will be touring through Japan and South America during the month of July before coming back to the United States on August 3^rd. Fans can get a full list of the band’s tour dates online at http://www.facebook.com/TheWineryDogs. Fans can also “Like” the Winery Dogs’ Facebook page for all of the latest news and updates from the band.

To keep up with all of the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Satriani Announces Complete U.S. Tour Schedule

Posted on June 3, 2013 by philspicks

Photo Credit: Daniel Robert Dinu–ConcertPhotography.ro

Joe Satriani has officially announced the schedule for his upcoming U.S. tour in support of his new album, Unstoppable Momentum. The tour kicks off August 29^th in San Diego, California. Satch will be joined by the Steve Morse Band on the tour up until October 3^rd at the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. Fans in North Carolina will be happy to know that Satriani will be making a stop in the “Old North State” as part of his tour. He will perform at the Carolina Theatre in Durham, North Carolina on Tuesday, September 24^th. Presale tickets for that concert will be available this Wednesday, June 5^th. Fans can order presale tickets online via the official Joe Satriani website at http://www.satriani.com/road/.

The complete listing of Joe Satriani’s U.S. tour is available below.

Joe Satriani’s Unstoppable Momentum Tour Itinerary (* featuring Steve Morse Band as support thru Portland, ME):

August 29 Balboa Theatre San Diego, CA *

August 30 Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort Las Vegas, NV *

August 31 Orpheum Theatre Los Angeles, CA *

September 1 Talking Stick Resort Ballroom Scottsdale, AZ *

September 2 Kiva Auditorium Albuquerque, NM *

September 4 Historic Paramount Theatre Denver, CO *

September 5 Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center Midland, TX *

September 6 Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie Grand Prairie, TX *

September 7 House of Blues Houston, TX *

September 8 Austin City Limits – Moody Theatre Austin, TX *

September 10 House of Blues New Orleans, LA *

September 11 Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL *

September 12 Parker Playhouse Ft. Lauderdale, FL *

September 13 Hard Rock Live Orlando, FL *

September 14 Saenger Theatre Pensacola, FL *

September 15 Symphony Hall Atlanta, GA *

September 17 War Memorial Auditorium Nashville, TN *

September 18 Chicago Theatre Chicago, IL *

September 19 Lakewood Civic Auditorium Lakewood, OH *

September 20 Taft Theatre Cincinnati, OH *

September 21 Wings Stadium Kalamazoo, MI *

September 22 Macomb Music Theatre Mt. Clemens, MI

September 24 Carolina Theatre Durham, NC *

September 25 Warner Theatre Washington, DC *

September 26 Beacon Theatre New York, NY *

September 27 Orpheum Theatre Boston, MA*

September 28 Tower Theatre Upper Darby, PA *

September 29 Carnegie Music Hall of Homestead Munhall, PA *

October 1 Center for the Arts Buffalo, NY *

October 2 Palace Theatre Albany, NY *

October 3 State Theatre Portland, ME *

October 4 Casino New Brunswick New Brunswick, NB

October 5 Rebecca Cohn Auditorium Halifax, NS

October 7 Le Capitole De Quebec Quebec City, QC

October 8 National Arts Centre Southam Hall Ottawa, ON

October 9 St. Denis Theatre Montreal, QC

October 10 Centre in the Square Kitchener, ON

October 11 Massey Hall Toronto, ON

October 14 Burton Cummings Theatre Winnipeg, MB

October 15 TCU Place Saskatoon, SK

October 16 Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Edmonton, AB

October 17 Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Calgary, AB

October 19 Vogue Theatre Vancouver, BC

October 21 The Fox Theater Spokane, WA

October 22 Paramount Theatre Seattle, WA

October 23 Historic Elsinore Theatre Salem, OR

October 25 Vina Robles Amphitheatre Paso Robles, CA

October 26 Fox Theater Oakland, CA

Fans can keep up with all the latest news, tour dates and more from Joe Satriani online at http://www.satriani.com and at http://www.facebook.com/joesatriani.

Satriani Proves He’s Still Got Plenty Of “Momentum” On New LP

Posted on May 17, 2013 by philspicks

Courtesy: Epic Records/RED Distribution

Joe Satriani’s latest release, Unstoppable Momentum is the famed guitarist’s best release since his 2006 album, Super Colossal. This new record is the album that fans have waited for since the release of Super Colossal. It is just as bombastic as Super Colossal and more at some points. It’s also just as gentle as SC, too at different points. Perhaps a big reason for the success of this record is the Satch opted for a different backing group than he typically uses on his records. Many of Satriani’s past records were recorded with Jeff Campitelli on drums and Allen Whitman on bass. This time out, Satch opted instead to have drummer Vinnie Colaiuta man the kit and Chris Chaney add the low end on bass. Another change to the lineup that could have created such a difference on this record from his other works was the inclusion of Mike Frasier behind the glass once again. The two are quite familiar with one another, having worked together on no less than six of Satch’s previous records, including his most recent album, Black Swans and Wormhole Wizards (2010) and Super Colossal. He also helped with the creation of both of Chickenfoot’s current releases on which Joe played guitar. That familiarity and friendship between the pair—and the inclusion of new musicians–obviously played a role in the record’s sound as it has proven to be not just his best record since Super Colossal, but one of his finest records to date.

Right from the opening number of Unstoppable Momentum, long-time fans of Satriani’s work know they are in for quite a ride. The album opens fittingly with its title track. Simply listening to the song, one can’t help but hear that perhaps Satriani is making a statement early on that even fourteen albums in, he still has a lot left to offer audiences. He still has that “unstoppable momentum.” The song’s seeming ABA structure starts off easy before really kicking things up in the middle section. Joe shows without a doubt that he’s still got plenty left in the tank with his “solos” in this section while drummer Vinnie Colaiuta gives an added intensity with his musicianship behind the kit. He proves to be just as solid as [Jeff] Campitelli, if not more so. His ability to handle polyrhythmic patters without missing a single beat is impressive to say the least, both here and throughout the record. This is just one example of what makes this such a solid record.

Another good example of what makes Unstoppable Momentum a success is the almost Beatles-esque, ‘I’ll Put a Stone on Your Cabin.’ The song’s “A” sections have something of a Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club influence. Somehow, Satriani and his band mates manage to tie in a sound that is quite the counterpoint to this vibe, making the song into a piece unlike anything that Satriani has ever recorded throughout his career. It is one of those songs that simply must be heard to be appreciated and understood.

There is at least one more example of what makes this new record one that fans will enjoy. And it is the album’s absolutely shortest, but most touching piece. That song is the one minute and forty-three minute long, ‘I’ll Put a Stone on Your Cairn.’ For those that don’t know, one of the traditional uses of a cairn is as a monument to one who has passed on. Its use roots all the way back to prehistoric Eurasia. So placing a stone on one’s cairn would be an act of tribute and remembrance to the deceased. Keeping all of this in mind, the gentle, dulcet tones of this short opus are sure to create thoughts in the minds of listeners of perhaps those that they have lost. It offers some of the album’s deepest emotions and is sure to generate among listeners some of the deepest emotions, as well. Without a doubt, this song may end up being a favorite for fans, even as short as it is. And it is just one more among so many that listeners will enjoy throughout the course of the album’s eleven total tracks. The album is available now in stores and online. It can be ordered online via Joe’s website, http://www.satriani.com, where he has links to iTunes, Amazon, and through his own website. Fans can also order the new album and all sorts of Joe Satriani gear through his official Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/joesatriani. Fans can keep up with the latest tour updates and news from Joe on his Facebook page, too.

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

philspicks

All the latest reviews and news in entertainment

Tag Archives: Chickenfoot

Joe Satriani Reveals New LP’s Release Date, Specs

Satriani Announces New Live Dates; To Release New Album This Spring

Zakk Wylde Added To 2019 Experience Hendrix Tour Lineup

Satriani Leaves Listeners Asking “What Happens Next?” In The Best Way With His New LP

Chickenfoot To Release Its First Hits Compilation Next Month

Chad Smith Lends His Talents To SAD’s Upcoming Debut LP

Concert For Ronnie Montrose Is As Good As Any Major Label’s Live Recordings

The Winery Dogs’ Debut A Super Record From A True Supergroup

Satriani Announces Complete U.S. Tour Schedule

Satriani Proves He’s Still Got Plenty Of “Momentum” On New LP