Joe Satriani does not need an opening band to warm up his fans for the ultimate guitar showdown. Virtuosity at the helm, the first show of his Canadian tour, and it was clear from looking around the MTelus venue that the large crowd was here for just that. Forget complicated light shows or an extravagant stage; it was Satriani, his guitar and 3 musicians (drummer Joe Travers, bassist Bryan Beller, keyboardist Mike Keneally) letting the fans appreciate a night of instrumental rock.
The “Satch’s” signature sound was ever so present as he played from a catalog of songs old and new. Cherry Blossoms, one of my favorites off the new album What Happens Next, uncharacteristically emotive for him, proves that he can shred a sweet sound just as much as a rockin’ lick. Ultimately, the setlist was composed of mainly classics from albums such as The Extremist, Surfing With the Alien and fans savored every rhythmic beat of songs like Satch Boogie, Super Funky Badass, Always with Me, Always with You to name a few.
Even after a short intermission, Satriani did not miss a beat. Drummer Joe Travers gave an impressive drum solo which segued into more of the guitarist playing up to a very receptive crowd. His interaction was strategically planned; fans chanting “Joe, Joe, Joe” a few times throughout the show.
Satriani is a master at his six-string and visually appealing to watch. A true guitar legend indeed.
Setlist:
Energy
Catbot
Satch Boogie
Cherry Blossoms
Flying in a Blue Dream
Cool #9
Headrush
What Happens Next
Super Funky Badass
Always with Me, Always with You
Summer Song
Thunder High on the Mountain
Ceremony
Cataclysmic
Ice 9
Sleep Walk
Crowd Chant
Review – Giosi Tortorici
Photos – Thomas Bock
